Minnesota Driver's Manual 2024 PDF

Minnesota Driver’s Manual Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services Division September 2024 drive.mn.gov 0 Minnesota Driver’s Manual New Laws and Information Electric-Assist Bicycles Electric-assist bicycles are not mopeds, so you can ride them on most bike trails. However, you need to be at least 15 years old to ride one. Child Passive Restraint Children under 13 years old must now ride in the back seat if it is available. There are new rules about car seats and booster seats in Chapter Three. Vulnerable Road Users Many people share the road. Many are in cars and trucks, but some are on bicycles, others are walking, and you may see people on scooters, in wheelchairs, or getting around in other ways. These road users don’t have seat belts or airbags, so you need to stay alert and be careful when sharing the road with them. Driver’s License and Identification Card Fee Increases The Minnesota Legislature increased all fees for credentials — which include driver’s licenses, state ID cards and commercial learner’s permits, as well as any duplicate cards — by $6. Lawmakers also added a 75-cent surcharge to all driver’s license fees. The change, which took place July 1, 2023, means the total increase for driver’s license fees is $6.75. Minnesota also increased the filing fees for applications. Starting Oct. 1, 2023, the filing fee for new credential applications is $16. For renewal applications, the filing fee is $11. You can find current fees on the Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) website. Driver’s License for All When the Minnesota Legislature passed the Driver’s License for All law, it changed the documents you need to get your standard driver’s license, learner’s permit or state ID. Starting Oct. 1, 2023, you can get your card, no matter your immigration status. The law removes the need to show proof of legal presence in the U.S. 1 Minnesota Driver’s Manual REAL ID Proof of Residency Changes As of Aug. 1, 2023, you now have more options when it comes to proving your residence and getting your REAL ID. You can now use internet and cable bills as utility bills. You can also use assisted living or nursing home statements as proof of residence. The address on your proof of residency document must match the address on your application. Please visit our website for the updated list of proof documents. Caretaker Information Included on Driver’s License or Identification Card Record You can now use your DVS records to let law enforcement know if you’re the caretaker for someone else. That way, if you are involved in a crash, law enforcement officers will know that there is someone at home who depends on you. They can quickly respond and ensure that the people you care for are not left alone. The new law gives you reassurance that your loved ones will be taken care of if something happens, reducing your anxiety and stress about leaving them alone. 2 Minnesota Driver’s Manual Fee and Tax Exemptions for Veterans with Total Service-Connected Disability Veterans with a 100 percent total-service connected disability are now exempt from sales, registration, and wheelage taxes for up to two vehicles. They are also exempt from title fees and fees for driver’s licenses and identification cards, including filing fees. Expansion of Eligibility for Veteran Designation on Credential This new law expands the types of veterans eligible to get the veteran indicator on their driver’s license or identification card. More Minnesota veterans can now display the veteran indicator. If you are a retired or honorably discharged member of the National Guard or a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces, you now qualify. You can prove that you are qualified using a military retiree ID card, veteran ID card, veteran health ID card or your DD-214 form that shows honorable or honorable conditions with 181 days of consecutive service. Elimination of Written Test Requirement for New Minnesota Residents If you are 21 and older and have a valid, unexpired license from another state, you will no longer need to take the written test when applying for a Minnesota driver’s license. You also will not need to take the written test when applying for a motorcycle endorsement if you have a valid motorcycle endorsement from another state. 3 Minnesota Driver’s Manual Option to Provide Race and Ethnicity Data with Applications You now have the option to share your race and ethnicity data in your applications for new and renewed driver’s licenses and identification cards. Providing this data is voluntary — you are not required to share information — and classified as private. The data will be shared with the Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to study traffic citations, drivers' education, and other related areas. Expansion of Driver’s License for Medical Reason If you are 15 years old, you may be able to get a driver’s license for your own medical needs or the medical needs of your relatives. You will need to meet specific requirements and provide the necessary documents. More information about exemptions to the minimum age requirement can be found in Chapter 1. Expansion of Restricted License for Farm Work If you are under age 16 and work on a farm, you may be eligible for the restricted farm license, even if your parent or guardian does not own the farm. All other restrictions for the farm license remain the same. More information about exemptions to the minimum age requirement can be found in Chapter 1. Remote Application Option for Incarcerated Individuals If you are serving a sentence longer than six months in a jail or correctional facility without an existing agreement with DVS, you can now renew your driver’s licenses and identification cards remotely. 4 Minnesota Driver’s Manual Reintegration License If you are getting released from prison in Minnesota, you may be qualified to get a valid temporary driver’s license without paying outstanding fines or reinstatement fees. You must meet eligibility requirements. The license expires 15 months after it is issued and is canceled if you break traffic laws and lose driving privileges. Driver’s Manual and Study Materials DVS has created study materials for the written and road tests. These materials will help you prepare for the required driving tests. You can find them on the DVS website. Changes to Voter Registration for Driver’s License and Identification Card Applications Under a new law, if you provide proof that you are a U.S. citizen (like a U.S. passport, U.S. birth certificate or certificate of citizenship) when applying for or renewing a driver’s license or identification card, you will be automatically registered to vote. Your information will be sent to the Office of the Secretary of State for voter registration. If you previously applied for a driver’s license or ID card in Minnesota, DVS might not have a record of your citizenship documents. You can provide documentation showing your citizenship to start the voter registration process under the new system. DVS will not send your data to the Office of the Secretary of State if you provided these documents before Oct. 1, 2023. If you do not wish to be registered to vote after providing DVS with citizenship documents, you must opt out with the Office of the Secretary of State. More information about voting can be found at: www.sos.mn.gov/elections-voting/register-to-vote. 5 Minnesota Driver’s Manual Crime to obstruct the work of a DVS employee It is a crime to obstruct the work of a DVS employee. Refer to Minnesota Statute 609.50, Subdivision 5. Completing the Pre-Application Makes Office Visits Quicker Using the pre-application feature in DVS online services allows you to complete a large part of your application online, reducing your time at the counter. DVS online services, available on mobile devices, provide a list of required documents for each license type. This helps you ensure you have all necessary documents ready when you visit a driver’s license office. Remember to bring your confirmation page and the documents listed on the confirmation letter. Start your application online using the pre-application feature no more than 30 days before visiting the driver’s license office to avoid completing a paper application. 6 Minnesota Driver’s Manual A Message from the Commissioner of Public Safety Dear fellow Minnesotan, Whether you’re an experienced driver who has been behind the wheel for decades or a teenager just getting to know the rules of the road for the first time, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) is committed to ensuring that everyone with a driver’s license knows the laws and practices that lead to safe driving. There are more than 4.5 million licensed drivers in Minnesota, and that number will only grow as we implement the Driver’s License for All law passed by the Minnesota Legislature. Our goal is for all of those drivers — as well as the pedestrians and cyclists they share the road with — to navigate our state’s roads safely and get home to their loved ones. This manual lays out how we can all do our part to achieve that goal, as well as the process for becoming a licensed driver in Minnesota. DVS has taken great strides to make sure our vitally important services are accessible to Minnesotans of all backgrounds. Visit drive.mn.gov to access our multilingual virtual assistant in English, Spanish, Somali and Hmong, and to set up your MyDVS account to track your license and registration information online. Remember that driving is a privilege that comes with a responsibility to the others on the road. Please buckle up, obey the speed laws and never drive under the influence of alcohol. Respect for traffic laws and respect for other drivers is what keeps us all safe on the road. Sincerely, Bob Jacobson Commissioner of Public Safety 7 Minnesota Driver’s Manual Table of Contents Written and Road Test Checklists........................................................... 9-10 Chapter 1 Your License to Drive............................................................. 11 Chapter 2 Your Vehicle............................................................................ 28 Chapter 3 Traffic Laws and Vehicle Operation....................................... 33 Chapter 4 Sharing the Road..................................................................... 51 Chapter 5 Signs, Signals, and Pavement Markings................................ 67 Chapter 6 Driving Conditions.................................................................. 85 Chapter 7 Your Driving Privileges........................................................... 103 Chapter 8 Impaired Driving..................................................................... 107 Chapter 9 Information Directory and Index........................................... 114 About This Manual: This manual concerns Minnesota laws and requirements. For complete standards, consult Minnesota state statutes and rules. This document is not a proper legal authority to cite in court. State of Minnesota Department of Public Safety. This Minnesota Driver’s Manual is printed by permission of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. This information can be made available in alternative formats to individuals with disabilities. For assistance, call: 651-297-3298 or (TTY) 651-282-6555 8 Minnesota Driver’s Manual Written Test Checklist Do you have everything you need for your written test? Use this checklist to prepare for your visit:  I have made a Class D written test appointment.  I have completed the online pre-application at drive.mn.gov, no more than 30 days before my appointment.  I have the required identification (see pages 4-6).  I know my Social Security number (SSN) if I am eligible for one.  I have money to pay the fees. If under 18 years of age:  I am at least 15 years old.  I have my certificate of enrollment (“Blue Card”) proving that I completed classroom instruction and am signed up for behind- the-wheel instruction; or I have my certificate of enrollment (“Pink Card”) proving that I am enrolled in a concurrent driver education course and have completed the first 15 classroom hours.  If completed, I have the Supplemental Parental Curriculum completion certificate.  My parent, court-appointed guardian, county-appointed foster parent or the director of the transitional living program I am residing in will sign and approve my application. If someone other than my parent will sign, I have the appropriate documentation. Road Test Checklist Do you have everything you need for your road test? Use this checklist to prepare for your visit:  I have made a road test appointment.  I have completed the online pre-application at drive.mn.gov, no more than 30 days before my appointment.  I have my valid instruction permit to give to the examiner.  I will provide a vehicle in safe working condition for the test: Doors must open from the inside and outside. 9 Seat belts must work properly. Headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals must work. Vehicle registration must be current or have a 21-day permit.  I have current proof of insurance for the vehicle I will use for the test. Acceptable proof includes: original insurance card issued by the company, policy declaration page, or e- insurance from the insurance company website or on an electronic device.  I have money to pay the fees. If under 18 years of age:  I am at least 16 years old.  I have my certificate of course completion (“White Card”) proving that I completed driver education.  I have held an instruction permit for the last six months without a conviction for a moving violation or an alcohol or controlled substance violation.  If all or part of my six months of driving experience was in another state, I have a certified driving record from that state to verify I qualify for the provisional license.  I have my Supervised Driving Log completed and signed by a parent or guardian.  If completed, I have the Supplemental Parental Curriculum completion certificate.  My parent, court-appointed guardian, county-appointed foster parent, or the director of the transitional living program I am residing in will sign and approve my application. If someone other than my parent will sign, I have the appropriate documentation. If 18 years of age:  I have had my instruction permit for at least six months. If 19 years of age or older:  I have had my instruction permit for at least three months. 10 Chapter 1 Your License to Drive This chapter provides information about how to obtain a Minnesota driver’s license. Getting Your License to Drive To drive on public streets or highways in Minnesota, you need a valid, unexpired driver’s license. If you have never had a driver’s license in any state or country, you must pass a written test and a vision test, apply for an instruction permit, and pass a road test. If your Minnesota driver’s license has been expired for more than one year but less than five years, you must pass a written test and a vision test before applying for a new license. If you are 21 or older and moving to Minnesota from another state, certain U.S. territories, or Canada, you can get a license by passing a vision test. You are not required to take the written test. You have up to 60 days after becoming a resident to get your Minnesota license or permit, and 30 days to get your commercial license. You must present a valid, unexpired driver’s license, or one expired for less than one year, from your former home state. If your former license has been expired for more than one year, you must pass a written test and a road test. If you have a motorcycle endorsement on your valid, unexpired out-of-state license, you can get a Minnesota endorsement by paying the fees. If your license is expired and you want a motorcycle endorsement, you must pass a written test, a road test and pay the fees. If you are moving to Minnesota from a country other than the United States or Canada, you must pass a written test, a vision test, and a road test, even if you have a valid license from your former country. You will not be able to get your Minnesota driver’s license until you present all other driver’s licenses and identification cards to DVS. Who Does Not Need a Minnesota License? You can drive on public roads in Minnesota without a valid Minnesota driver’s license or permit if you meet one of these exceptions: You are a nonresident who is at least 15 years old and have a valid driver’s license from your home state or country. You have become a resident of Minnesota and have a valid driver’s license from another state, a Canadian province or U.S. military authority. You have up to 60 days after becoming a resident to get your Minnesota license. 11 You have a valid commercial driver’s license from another state. You have up to 30 days after becoming a Minnesota resident to get your commercial Minnesota license. You are employed by or in service to the U.S. government and are driving a commercial motor vehicle for military purposes. You are not a Minnesota resident, are at least 18 years old, your home country does not require drivers to be licensed, and the vehicle you drive is registered for the current year in your home country. You can drive this vehicle in Minnesota for up to 90 days in any calendar year without a valid license or permit. You temporarily drive a farm tractor or other farm implement on a public road. You are operating a snowmobile. For snowmobile laws, visit the Department of Natural Resources website at www.dnr.state.mn.us. You are a railroad operator driving a locomotive, train or on-track equipment on rails, including when crossing a street or highway. Who Cannot Be Licensed? You will not be issued a Minnesota driver’s license or instruction permit if: You fail to present proper identification. You fail to complete or pass any part of the required driver’s license tests. You cannot read and understand official road signs or state traffic laws. You are under 15 years of age. You are under 18 years of age, do not have a valid license from another state, and cannot present a certificate proving that you completed an approved driver education course. You are 18 years old or younger and have had an instruction permit for less than six months. You are 19 years old or older and have had an instruction permit for less than three months. Your license is suspended, and you have not met all reinstatement requirements. Your license is revoked, and you have not met all reinstatement requirements. Your license is canceled. A court has ruled you mentally incompetent, and the Department of Public Safety has determined that you cannot drive safely. 12 The Commissioner of Public Safety has determined you cannot drive safely due to a physical or mental disability. The Commissioner of Public Safety has good cause to believe that allowing you to drive would be detrimental to public safety. Bring Identification To take the written and road tests, you must present proper identification that verifies your first, middle and last name, and your date of birth. If the names on your identification documents do not match, you must also provide proof of your legal name changes, such as your certified marriage certificates, certified divorce decrees or other certified court orders that specify the name change. You must also present proper identification when you apply for an instruction permit, driver’s license, or state identification card. If your documents are not in English, you must provide a qualified English translation (see page 14). DVS will verify your documents and may not accept them if they are laminated or altered. We cannot accept photocopies of identification documents, and we may confiscate fraudulent documents. What you need to bring when applying for a license or ID: Standard driver’s license or ID You may present a Minnesota driver’s license, identification card, or permit that is current or expired for five years or less if it has a photo, or one year or less if it does not have a photo. If you do not have one of these items, you must present two documents. One document must contain your full name and your date of birth. These documents are referred to as primary and secondary documents and may include a birth certificate, passport or Social Security card. If the name on your driver’s license, identification card, or permit has changed, or if the names on your other documents do not match, you must also present proof of your legal name change(s). Complete list of document requirements for a standard driver's license or ID REAL ID Applying for a REAL ID compliant card requires more documentation than a standard Minnesota driver's license. You must provide the following in person when applying: One document proving identity, date of birth and legal presence in the United States. 13 o If the name on your identity document is not the same as your current name, you must submit a name change document. You must know your social security number. Two documents proving your current residency in Minnesota. Complete list of acceptable documents for REAL ID Enhanced driver’s license or ID Applying for an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced Identification Card (EID) requires additional requirements and documentation compared to a standard Minnesota license. Only applicants who can provide proof of identity, full legal name, social security number, photographic identity, Minnesota residency, and U.S. citizenship are eligible for a Minnesota EDL or EID. Two types of documents must be submitted to prove Minnesota residency, such as an electric bill or phone bill and a tax return. An EDL/EID must list your Minnesota residence address. You must complete an Interview Questionnaire at the time of application. A $15 fee is required in addition to the fee for a driver’s license or ID card. Complete list of document requirements for an EDL or EID Verification of Name Change If you legally change your name through marriage, divorce or a court order, you must show proof of the change. You must present a certified marriage certificate, a certified court order specifying the name change or a certified divorce decree specifying the name change. If you have had multiple name changes, you must provide documentation for all of those changes. Translation of Documents If your documents are not in English, you must provide a qualified English translation. The Certificate of Translation form is available here, at driver examination stations, and at driver’s license offices. The translator must certify the following: The document is accompanied by a full English translation. The translation of the document is true and accurate, meaning all words on the presented document have been correctly translated. The translator is not related by blood or marriage to the subject of the document. 14 The translator is competent to translate from the original language into English. The translator understands that if any part of the translation is intentionally false, they will be subject to penalty. Social Security Number Applicants for Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services cards must provide their Social Security number (SSN) on the application form Your SSN is private and will be secure in the driver’s license information system, accessible only to those lawfully authorized. If you have not been issued an SSN, you must check the appropriate box on the application form. Social Security numbers are not printed on or embedded in driver’s licenses or identification cards. Under federal law (42 U.S.C. § 405(c) (2)(C)(i)), the state is authorized to require SSNs for driver’s license programs. If you do not provide an SSN when eligible, Minnesota cannot process your application for a driver’s license or identification card. The Written Test You can take the written test at driver examination stations across the state. Appointments are required for the Class D written test. To schedule an appointment, visit drive.mn.gov. The written test includes multiple-choice and true or false questions that assess your knowledge of Minnesota traffic laws and road signs. The test may be taken on paper or on a computer. At exam stations offering the test on a computer, you can take it in English, several other languages or in American Sign Language (ASL). Headphones are available to hear the questions as you read them. If you need special accommodations, please inquire at the exam station. You may take only one written test per day and must score 80 percent to pass. You must show proper identification before taking the test. If you are under 18, you must also present a certificate of enrollment (“Blue Card” or “Pink Card”) from an approved driver education course, showing that you have completed the required classroom instruction and enrolled in behind- the-wheel training. Classroom instruction is not required if you are 18 or older. Information on home-schooling rules and regulations is available here. If you fail two consecutive written tests, a $10 fee is charged for the third and any subsequent tests. The Vision Screening Your eyes will be screened when you apply for or renew your driver’s license or instruction permit. This is not a medical exam; it checks if your 15 vision meets the minimum standards. Your normal or corrected vision must be at least 20/40, and your peripheral vision must be at least 105 degrees. If your peripheral vision is less than 105 degrees or you fail the vision screening, you will be asked to see an eye doctor and return the doctor’s report to the DVS Driver Evaluation Unit. The report will determine if you see well enough to drive safely or if you need vision correction or other restrictions. The Road Test The road test includes three parts: demonstrating your vehicle’s safety equipment, showing your vehicle control skills and performing a driving test. You will be tested on road rules and your ability to drive safely under normal traffic conditions. The examiner will assess your risk awareness and reactions. Your ability to observe intersections, change lanes and handle other situations will be evaluated. You will not be asked to do anything illegal during the test. When you have the necessary driving skills and meet all the requirements, you can take the road test. You must make an appointment online at drive.mn.gov or call 651-284-1234 in the seven-county metro area. To take the road test, you must present your valid instruction permit and current proof of insurance with the original insurance card or policy. If you are under 18, you must also present a supervised driving log and a certificate of course completion (“White Card”) proving you completed an approved driver education course and behind-the-wheel instruction. You must provide your own vehicle for the test. Neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs) are not allowed. If using a rental vehicle, you must be listed as a driver on the rental agreement. You may use a vehicle with a backup camera, but the camera should not be the only method of observation when backing up. The vehicle must meet these requirements: Doors open from both inside and outside. Seat belts work properly. Headlights, taillights, turn signals and brake lights work. Any equipment required by your license or permit restrictions must work unless you are trying to remove the restrictions. During the test: No smoking is allowed, and the vehicle must be smoke-free before the examiner enters. No electronic devices or cell phone usage. No passengers, including pets, children, or interpreters, are allowed. Loose objects that could break or cause injury must be removed. Vehicles with parking assist cannot use this feature for parallel parking during the test. 16 If you fail two consecutive road tests, you will be charged a $20 fee for the third and any subsequent tests. Vehicle Safety Equipment Demonstration Before starting the road test, you may be asked to perform a safety equipment check on your vehicle. Your vehicle must be in safe working condition and have all necessary equipment. You will need to demonstrate knowledge about the following: Seat adjustment. Seat belts. Emergency (parking) brake. Activating headlights (high and low beams). Vehicles with fully automatic headlights require the driver to manually activate the high and low beam headlights. Activating hazard warning lights (four-way flashers). Horn. Windshield wipers. Windshield defroster and fan controls. Mirrors. Fuel gauge. This list does not include all equipment and items required by law. If you are unable to pass the safety equipment demonstration, you will not be allowed to finish the road test that day. Vehicle Control Skills and Driving Performance During the road test, you will be examined and evaluated on your: Control of the vehicle. Ability to parallel park. Ability to park on a hill. Response to traffic and road conditions, traffic signs and signals. Ability to signal and perform right and left turns properly. The ability to use both marked and unmarked lanes of traffic. Observation and consideration of pedestrians and other drivers. The ability to perform the 90-degree backing skill maneuver, which simulates backing into a ten-foot-wide driveway or parking space. These actions will cause you to fail the road test immediately: Disobeying a traffic law. Driving dangerously, carelessly, or recklessly, including any action that could result in a traffic crash. Inability to control your vehicle or complete a maneuver without assistance from the examiner. 17 Involving your vehicle in a crash that you could have avoided, even if you are not legally at fault. Not cooperating with the examiner or refusing to follow the examiner's instructions. If you fail the road test, you may retake it after you have had time to practice. You will be assigned practice time that must be completed before your next road test. If you fail the road test two times, a retest fee of $20 will be charged for each subsequent test. If you fail the road test four times, you must complete at least six hours of behind-the-wheel instruction with a licensed instructor before taking the test again. When you pass the road test, you may apply for your Minnesota driver’s license. If you are under 18, your parent, legal guardian, county-appointed foster parent, or the director of the transitional living program where you live must sign and approve your application. The validated record of your road test score and your application receipt will serve as your temporary driver’s license until you receive your permanent license in the mail. Medical Conditions When applying for an instruction permit or driver’s license, you will be asked questions about medical conditions. Providing false information on the application could result in losing your driving privileges. If you have a medical condition, you may need to provide a statement from a physician indicating whether or not the condition affects your ability to drive safely. If you already have a permit or license and are diagnosed with epilepsy or a condition that could cause loss of consciousness, you must submit a physician's statement within 30 days of the diagnosis. The statement must indicate whether or not the condition interferes with your ability to drive safely. Send medical statements to: Driver and Vehicle Services Driver Evaluation Unit 445 Minnesota Street, Suite 170 St. Paul, Minnesota 55101-5170 For more information, contact the Driver Evaluation Unit at 651-296-2025. 18 Parent’s Approval for Under Age 18 If you are under 18, your application for a driver’s license or instruction permit must be approved by one of the following: One of your parents A court-appointed guardian A county-appointed foster parent The director of the transitional living program where you reside If your parents are divorced, your custodial parent or a stepparent married to your custodial parent may approve your application. If you have no living parents or guardian, or if you are married or legally emancipated, a close family member, employer, or a spouse who is at least 18 years old may sign your application. Approval can be withdrawn by the individual who signed the application. Forms can be obtained at driver license renewal offices, examination stations, and on the DVS website. If you are a foreign exchange student, your host sponsors cannot sign your application unless they have legal guardianship of you as a minor (documentation required). You will need two application forms with notarized signatures from your parents: one for the instruction permit and one for the provisional license. The GDL System Minnesota has a Graduated Driver’s Licensing (GDL) system to help ease inexperienced drivers into driving. Under the GDL system, if you are 18 years old or younger, you must hold an instruction permit for at least six months before taking the road test. After passing the road test, you may apply for your license. Your Instruction Permit The first step to becoming a licensed driver is to get an instruction permit. Your permit is valid for two years of practice driving with a licensed supervising driver sitting in the front passenger seat. It is illegal to practice driving without a valid instruction permit. When you drive, you must have your instruction permit with you at all times. To qualify and obtain an instruction permit, you must: Be at least 15 years old. Complete 30 hours of classroom instruction and be enrolled in behind-the-wheel instruction; or be enrolled in a concurrent driver education course and have completed the first 15 classroom hours of the curriculum. If you are 18 or older, classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction is not required. Comply with identification requirements. 19 Pass a vision screening and a written test. Complete a license application and pay the required instruction permit fee. If You are Under 18 You must be supervised by a driver aged 21 or older. Everyone in the vehicle must wear a seat belt or use a child passenger restraint system. You may not use or talk on a cell phone while driving, with or without a hands-free device. If You are 18 and older You must be supervised by a driver aged 18 or older. Everyone in the vehicle must wear a seat belt or use a child passenger restraint system. After the required six months of practice driving (or three months if you are 19 years old or older), you may take the road test. For road test scheduling information, see Chapter 9 of this manual. Before you can take the road test, you must present your valid instruction permit and current proof of insurance for the vehicle to the driver examiner. If your instruction permit is lost or expired, you can apply for a new permit. The new permit will be valid for two years from the day you apply. xxx Your Provisional License The provisional license is the second phase of the Graduated Driver’s Licensing (GDL) system. This license is valid for two years from the application date and has restrictions that do not apply to a full driver’s license. Everyone in your vehicle must wear a seat belt or use a child passenger restraint system, and you may not use or talk on a cell phone while driving, including with a hands-free device. To qualify for your provisional license, you must: Be at least 16 years old. Have completed the classroom and behind-the-wheel phases of driver education. Have held an instruction permit for six months with no convictions for moving or alcohol/controlled-substance violations. Submit a Supervised Driving Log. Parents/guardians have two options: 20 o Complete a parent class provided by a Minnesota- approved driver education program and submit a log showing at least 40 hours of supervised driving, including 15 nighttime hours. o If not taking the parent class, your teen must submit a log showing at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 15 nighttime hours. Have passed a road test. Have a parent, court-appointed guardian, county-appointed foster parent, or director of the transitional living program where you reside sign and approve your license application. Once these requirements are met, you may apply for your provisional license and pay the appropriate fee. While you have a provisional license, you must follow the restrictions. Nighttime Limitations: During the first six months, you must not drive from midnight to 5 a.m. unless: ○ Accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 25 years old. ○ Driving between home and work. ○ Driving between home and a school event for which the school does not provide transportation. ○ Driving for employment purposes. Passenger Limitations: During the first six months, you may have only one passenger under 20 unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. During the second six months, you may have no more than three passengers under 20 unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. Note: You may have immediate family members under age 20 as passengers during both time periods. Vanessa’s Law If you are convicted of a crash-related moving violation or an alcohol/controlled substance-related violation (such as DWI, Implied Consent, Open Bottle, or Underage Drinking and Driving/Not a Drop Law) while you are driving without a license as a teenager, you cannot get a license, instruction permit, or provisional license until you are 18. At 18, you must: Pass the Class D written test. Fulfill reinstatement requirements, including payment of fees, which can be up to $680 depending on circumstances. Obtain an instruction permit and hold it for at least six months. Pass the road test and apply for a new license. 21 If you lose driving privileges due to a crash-related moving violation or an alcohol/controlled substance-related violation while driving with your provisional license, you cannot regain a license until age 18. At that time, you must complete the following steps to obtain a full driver’s license: Fulfill all reinstatement requirements, including the payment of fees, which can be up to $680 depending on circumstances. Complete the classroom portion of a formal driver education course. Pass the Class D written test if the license has been expired for over one year. Obtain an instruction permit and hold it for three months. Complete the behind-the-wheel portion of a driver education course and apply for a new license. Getting Your Under 21 Class D Driver’s License To get your Under 21 Class D driver’s license, you must be at least 18 years old, or have held a provisional license for 12 consecutive months with no convictions for alcohol violations, controlled-substance violations, or crash-related moving violations. You also must not have more than one conviction for a moving violation that is not crash-related. If you are under 18, you must certify that you have driven for at least 10 hours under the supervision of a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old. You must complete an application for a driver’s license and pay the fee. If you upgrade from a provisional license with no violations on your record, you will receive a $3.50 credit toward the fee. If you are under 21, you will receive a license marked “Under-21.” This license will expire on your 21st birthday and will then expire every four years on your birthday. Exceptions to Minimum Age Requirement At age 15, you may qualify for a restricted farm work driver’s license, a special medical driver’s license, or a motorized bicycle (moped) permit after completing a driver education course and passing a road test. Restricted Farm Work Driver’s License: With this license, if you work on a farm, you may drive to help with farm work, regardless of whether their parent or guardian owns the farm. You may drive alone to perform farm work during daylight hours within 40 miles of the farmhouse. To obtain this license, your parent or legal guardian must fill out a form and present it to the driver examiner at the road test, along with a property tax statement classifying the property as agricultural. If the land is rented, a rental agreement and property tax statement are required. If you work for a farmer who is not your parent or guardian, the farm owner must fill out a form stating the need for the license and provide a property tax statement. 22 You do not need to wait six months before taking the road test, but you must apply for an instruction permit. When ready for the road test, you must present a certificate of completion from an approved behind-the- wheel driver education course and a supervised driving log. The farm work restriction can be removed after you have held the license for six months and have reached 16 years of age, but you will need to apply to have it removed. Special Medical Driver’s License: You may be issued this license at age 15 when there are no licensed drivers in the household, and you must drive for personal medical needs or the medical needs of a relative or disabled relative who cannot drive due to a disability. You must meet requirements and submit a completed License for Medical Reason Exemption form before a road test. The Commissioner of Public Safety may set conditions and limits to ensure public safety. You do not need to wait six months before taking the road test but must apply for an instruction permit. When ready for the road test, you must present a certificate of completion from an approved behind- the- wheel driver education course and a supervised driving log. The restriction will appear on the license as MEDLIM. Motorized Bicycle Permit: You can get a motorized bicycle (moped) permit at age 15 after completing a motorized bicycle safety course and passing the written, vision and road tests. An electric-assist bicycle is not considered a moped, and you do not need a test or a license to ride one. However, you must be at least 15 years old. Driver’s License Classifications Your driver’s license allows you to drive a motor vehicle on public streets and highways. You must always carry your license with you when driving. You need the appropriate class of license and endorsements for the type of vehicle you are driving. Information about your license class, endorsements, and any restrictions will be listed on the back of your driver’s license. There are four classes of driver’s licenses and several endorsements available to Minnesota drivers. 23 Class D License The Class D driver’s license is the most common license for Minnesota drivers. With a Class D license, more commonly known as the standard driver’s license, you may drive: All single-unit vehicles (cars, pickups, and small trucks) with these exceptions: o Those with a gross vehicle weight of 26,001 pounds or more o Vehicles designed to carry more than 15 passengers (including the driver) o Vehicles that carry hazardous materials. Any farm truck transporting agricultural products, farm machinery or farm supplies (including hazardous materials) within 150 miles of the farm. You must be the farmer, an immediate family member or a farm employee to drive the farm truck. Authorized emergency vehicles, regardless of their weight. Recreational vehicles (motor homes and camping trailers) for personal use. Motorized bicycles (Mopeds). Electric-assist bicycles. Motorcycles, with the appropriate license endorsement. Neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs). Autocycles. You may also tow a trailer or other vehicle if: It has a gross vehicle weight of 10,000 pounds or less, or It has a gross vehicle weight of more than 10,000 pounds, but the combined gross vehicle weight of the vehicle and trailer is 26,000 pounds or less. License Endorsements You must have an endorsement on your license to drive motorcycles, buses, school buses, double and triple trailers, tank vehicles, or carry hazardous materials. You must pass additional written tests to receive all endorsements and specialized road tests to receive the bus, school bus and motorcycle endorsements. Commercial Driver’s Licenses Class A, B, and C licenses are called commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs). A CDL allows you to drive all Class D vehicles, plus certain types of vehicles specific to each CDL class. 24 Class C License If you have a Class C license with a hazardous materials endorsement, you can transport hazardous materials in a Class D vehicle. With a tanker endorsement, you can carry hazardous liquid or gaseous materials in a permanently mounted or portable tank. Class B License A Class B license, with necessary endorsements, allows you to drive all Class C and D vehicles and all other single-unit vehicles. You can tow vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of 10,000 pounds or less when operating a Class B power unit. Class A License If you have a Class A license with all the appropriate endorsements, you may drive any vehicle or trailer combination. CDL Information For more information about CDLs and CDL requirements, see the Minnesota Commercial Driver’s Manual, which includes the Minnesota School Bus Driver’s Handbook. These are available on the Driver and Vehicle Services website at drive.mn.gov. Note: If you drive any class of vehicle as an employer or employee, you may need to follow commercial motor carrier requirements. These requirements may apply to single-unit and combination vehicles of more than 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight (such as construction vehicles), vehicles used to deliver packages and other items, and vehicles designed or used to transport more than eight passengers, including the driver. To legally drive these vehicles, you may need a valid U.S. Department of Transportation medical examiner’s certificate. You may also have restrictions on driving hours and vehicle maintenance and inspection requirements. For more information, contact the Minnesota State Patrol at 651-405-6196 or the Minnesota Department of Transportation Office of Freight and Commercial Vehicle Operations at 651-215-6330. CDL for People Under 21 Years of Age You may obtain a CDL before you turn 21; however, the license will carry specific restrictions. 25 License Renewal and Replacement A driver’s license issued by the state of Minnesota typically expires on your birthday and must be renewed every four years after you reach 21 years old. If your current license is lost, damaged, or destroyed, you must apply for a duplicate license. If you have lost your license, you must present proper identification when it is time to renew it. To renew your license, you must pass a vision test. Name or Address Change If you change your name or address before your license expires, you must apply for a duplicate license within 30 days. If you need a replacement instruction permit, you must renew your permit. Active Military Service If you are in active military service with the U.S. Armed Forces and have a valid unexpired Minnesota driver’s license upon entering military service, you are not required to renew your license until you are separated or discharged, regardless of your length of service. To ensure that your driving record will be maintained, you will need to submit military documents to DVS that shows your date of entry into the military. Documents can be submitted online or mailed to Driver and Vehicle Services, 445 Minnesota Street, Suite 180, St. Paul, Minnesota 55101. If you have questions, call DVS at (651) 297-3298. You must renew your license within one year of your separation or discharge from active military service by presenting your Minnesota driver’s license and your DD214 military discharge papers. This exception also applies to your spouse, domestic partner or dependents under age 26 of those in active military service, if they do not reside in Minnesota during the active military service period. If moving to Minnesota with an out of state license that has been expired for more than a year, you may be able to waive the road test. If you are still in the military, you need to provide an In-Service letter from your commanding officer. Peace Corps and Federal Foreign Service Employees If you are serving outside Minnesota as a Peace Corps volunteer or as an employee of a federal department or agency assigned to foreign service, and you had a valid Minnesota driver's license when you started, you do not need to renew your license until your service ends, no matter how long your service lasts. To keep your driving record up to date, submit documents showing your start date to DVS. You can submit documents online or mail them to Driver and Vehicle Services, 445 Minnesota St., Suite 180, St. Paul, Minnesota 55101. 26 You must renew your license within one year after your service ends by presenting your Minnesota driver's license and service papers. This exception also applies to your spouse, domestic partner, or dependents under age 26 if they do not live in Minnesota during the service period. Selective Service If you are between the ages of 18 and 26, and are a U.S. citizen or resident, you will be registered with the U.S. Selective Service, more commonly known as the draft, when you apply for any Minnesota license or ID card. If you are under 18 years of age, DVS will withhold Selective Service registration until your 18th birthday. “Consent to Registration” at the time of application is in compliance with the Military Selective Service Act, U.S. Code title 50 appendix, section 453. State Identification Cards You can apply for a Minnesota state ID card at any office that accepts driver’s license applications. You must present proper documentation for the type of card you are applying for (Standard, REAL ID, or Enhanced). You can only hold one type of card. DVS will not issue an identification card to someone who already has a valid driver’s license or instruction permit without a downgrade statement stating the person is giving up their driving privileges. Driver Services Fees The Minnesota Legislature sets driver services fees. You can find a complete list of driver’s license, identification card, and other driver services fees on the Driver’s License Fees page on the DVS website. Expedited (Fast Track) Services You can fast track your driver’s license or state ID card for an additional fee of $20. If you fast track your services, you driver’s license or ID will be processed within three business days, and you should receive your card via UPS within 10 business days. An adult must sign for your card when it is delivered. You may not fast track your services when applying for the first time, for enhanced driver’s licenses and ID cards or when upgrading a license. 27 Chapter 2 Your Vehicle Before you drive any vehicle on public roads, make sure it is fully equipped and in good condition. Get to know your vehicle. Read the owner’s manual and learn how to use all the equipment. Regularly check the lights, windshield wipers, horn and tires to make sure they work. Understand the functions of the gauges and warning lights. When you enter the vehicle, check your seat and mirrors to see if they need adjustment. Make sure passengers sit in positions that do not block your view or interfere with your driving. Adjust and buckle your seat belt and make sure all your passengers do the same. Vehicle Requirements Brakes All cars and trucks must have at least two separate brake systems, like the foot brake and the parking/emergency brake. Bumpers All private passenger vehicles must have front and rear bumpers. Pickup trucks and vans must have front bumpers and either rear bumpers or reflectors. Horn Your vehicle must have a working horn. Bells, sirens, and whistles are not horns and can only be used by emergency vehicles. Use your horn to avoid a crash. Do not honk unnecessarily or to announce your arrival. 28 Headlights and Taillights All motor vehicles, except motorcycles, must have: Two white headlights that work on high and low beam. Red taillights that light up when you press the brake pedal. High beam headlights must make objects visible on the road at least 350 feet ahead. You must replace damaged headlights. A cracked lens can let moisture and dust in, reducing light and increasing glare for other drivers. Clean your headlights as often as you clean your windshield; dirty headlights can reduce light output by up to 75 percent. Have your headlights inspected at least once a year to ensure they are aimed correctly. Some headlights need an adapter or special settings. Check your owner’s manual for more information. Some vehicles have daytime running lights that turn on automatically to make your vehicle more visible during the day. Taillights and parking lights do not turn on automatically. Turn on your headlights at sunset and keep them on until sunrise. Use them during rain, snow, hail, sleet, fog, or any time you cannot see the road ahead for at least 500 feet. License Plate Light A white light must illuminate the rear license plate, so it is visible at night. Turn Signals All of your vehicle’s turn signal lights must work. Prohibited Lights Only certain vehicles can use blue lights, flashing lights and strobe lamps: Snowplows, road maintenance equipment, and authorized emergency vehicles can use blue lights. Authorized emergency vehicles, school buses, road maintenance equipment, tow trucks, service vehicles, and farm equipment can use flashing lights. School buses, snow removal equipment, and rural mail carrier vehicles can use strobe lamps. 29 Mufflers All motor vehicles must have mufflers to prevent sudden or prolonged loud noises, especially sharp popping, or crackling sounds. Regularly check the muffler for carbon monoxide leaks. Rearview Mirrors All passenger vehicles must have rearview mirrors. Vehicles like rental moving trucks, which do not allow a view through a rear window, must have an additional side mirror. Pickup trucks, often used for hauling, must also have an extra side mirror. This side mirror helps you see clearly when materials block the rearview mirror. Seat Belts and Airbags Make sure seat belts are clean and in good condition for all occupants. In Minnesota, all vehicles must have seat belts, and everyone must use them. Airbags work with seat belts to prevent injuries but do not stop occupants from being ejected. Keep the dashboard free of clutter; objects can become dangerous if airbags inflate. Tires Tires must support your vehicle's weight and grip the road properly. Inspect tires regularly for cuts, cracks, uneven wear, bald spots, bulges, and punctures. Always carry a good spare tire and check its pressure often. Tires have less traction on gravel or dirt roads than on concrete or asphalt. Tires can lose up to 1 psi of pressure every month. Check your tire pressure often and never drive with under-inflated tires. Find your vehicle’s recommended tire pressure on a sticker inside the driver’s door or in the owner’s manual. Check tire pressure before driving or at least three hours after driving. Insert a pressure gauge into the valve stem on your tire. The gauge will show the measured psi. Compare the measured psi to the psi on the sticker inside the driver’s door or in the owner’s manual, not the psi on the tire’s sidewall. If the measured psi is above the recommended number, let air out until it matches. If below, add air until it reaches the proper number. 30 Check your tires often for wear and damage. A tire is illegal if the tread is less than one-sixteenth of an inch deep. Use the penny test to check for wear: ○ Hold a penny with Abraham Lincoln’s body between your thumb and forefinger. ○ Place Lincoln’s head into a groove where the tread is the lowest. ○ If any part of Lincoln’s head is covered by the tread, your tires are legal and safe. If the tread is below that, your vehicle’s grip on the road in adverse conditions is greatly reduced. Windshield and Windows Your view through windshields and windows must be clear and not obstructed by cracks, discoloration, steam, frost, ice, or snow when driving. Do not hang objects between the driver and the windshield. Labels and stickers allowed by state law, such as state and national park stickers, safety inspection stickers and EZpass devices, can be placed on your windshield. Global positioning and other navigation systems can be mounted near the bottom part of the windshield. Driver feedback and safety-monitoring equipment can be mounted immediately behind, slightly above, or slightly below the rearview mirror. Windshields cannot be made of, covered by or treated with materials that make the glass more reflective or reduce the amount of light passing through it. Any window tint applied to the side or rear windows after Aug. 1, 1985, must show the percentage of light transmitted and reflected. If it transmits less than 50 percent or reflects more than 20 percent of available light, you can only use it on the rear window of a pickup truck or the rear and side windows of a van, limousine or vehicle used by a funeral home. Windshield Wipers and Window Defrosters A vehicle with a glass windshield must have working windshield wipers. Window defrosters are necessary to keep windows and the windshield clear of steam and frost. 31 Wheel Guards or Fenders Passenger vehicles must have fenders or other wheel guards to prevent water, dirt, and other material from being thrown into the air by the tires. Fuel Efficient Techniques Keep Your Car in Good Condition Tune your engine properly. Keep tires properly inflated. Use the recommended grade of motor oil. Drive Efficiently Plan and combine errands into one trip. Drive sensibly; avoid speeding, rapid acceleration, and braking. Observe the speed limit. Remove unnecessary heavy items from your vehicle. Use cruise control on the highway. Use overdrive gears. Whenever possible, take public transportation, use carpools, rideshare, bike, or walk. 32 Chapter Minnesota traffic laws apply to everyone driving on public roads in this state. The following laws cover how to control and operate your vehicle. On all wide roads, you must drive on the right side of the road except: When passing another vehicle going in the same direction. When the right side of the road is closed for construction or repair. When the road has three marked lanes. When signs indicate the road is one-way. When you need to move over for an authorized vehicle parked or stopped on the road (move over law). Speed Limits The faster you drive, the less time you have to react to events on the road. Driving at higher speeds increases the chance of crashes. You are more likely to get seriously injured or killed in a crash at high speed. Basic Speed Law: Minnesota’s basic speed law says you must drive at a speed that is reasonable for the current conditions, including weather, traffic and road conditions. Driving faster than the posted speed limit is illegal. The posted speed limit is the maximum speed allowed on that road. On two-lane highways with a speed limit of 55 mph or higher, you can increase your speed by 10 mph when lawfully passing another vehicle. Minimum Speed Limits: Some roads have minimum speed limits. It is illegal to drive slower than the posted minimum speed under normal conditions. Right-of-Way: If you approach an intersection at an unlawful speed, you lose the right-of-way privilege associated with driving at a lawful speed. Speed Limits Under Ideal Conditions (Unless Otherwise Indicated by Signs): 10 mph — in alleys 30 mph — on urban or town roads 55 mph — in all other locations that are not specified in this list Special Zones: In school zones, you must slow down when children are present. In work or construction zones, you must slow down and drive with care. Always obey the posted speed limit. 33 Speed Limits and Fines You can be fined for driving faster than the posted speed limit. Additional fines apply if you drive 20 mph or more over the limit. If you drive over 100 mph, your driving privileges will be revoked for at least six months. Reduced Speed You may need to reduce your speed in many driving situations. Remember, increasing speed decreases your field of vision and increases the risk of a crash. You must slow down when you approach or pass a stopped emergency vehicle with flashing emergency lights. A surcharge of at least $25 is added to the speeding fine if you break this law. Slow down for flag persons, pedestrians, barricades, flares, or reflectors on the road. You must also slowdown in bad weather and poor road conditions. Drive slower on narrow or winding roads, and when approaching a curve, hilltop, or railroad crossing. On gravel or dirt roads, you need to slow down, because it takes longer to stop, and it is easier to skid when turning. Speed Limits on Bridges Watch for and obey special speed limits and “No Passing” signs posted on bridges. Signaling When you want to change lanes or make a turn, use your signal to inform other drivers. Activate your signal at least 100 feet before turning. Keep signaling until you have completed the turn or lane change. Hand and Arm Signals During daylight hours, you can use hand and arm signals in addition to or instead of turn signals. Do not use hand signals at night or when driving a vehicle that blocks other drivers from seeing your hand signals. 34 Traffic Lanes A traffic lane is a part of the street or highway wide enough for a vehicle or line of vehicles to drive safely. You are in a traffic lane whenever you drive on any street or highway. Lanes may not always be marked, but they exist whether marked or not. You must stay within a single traffic lane without weaving or straddling the lane markings. Changing Lanes You often need to change lanes to turn, merge with traffic, or do other driving activities. Changing lanes can be dangerous and must be done carefully. To stay safe, make sure you have space to the side, behind, and ahead of your vehicle before moving into another lane. Turn your head to check the lane you are moving into for vehicles. Don’t rely solely on mirrors; you may miss vehicles in your blind spots. Blind Spots Blind spots are areas around your vehicle where your view is blocked. You cannot see pedestrians or other vehicles in your rearview or side mirrors when they are in these spots. The design of your vehicle and the position of the roof pillars determine the location of your blind spots. Dirty windshields and glaring lights can also create temporary blind spots. Know where your blind spots are. Before changing lanes or turning, quickly turn your head to look for hidden pedestrians or vehicles. Avoid driving in other drivers' blind spots. Be especially aware of blind spots when driving near commercial vehicles. 35 Turns Drivers who turn improperly cause many traffic crashes. Move safely into the correct lane well ahead of the place where you will make the actual turn. Slow down before turning. Signal your intent at least 100 feet before the turn. Signals let pedestrians and drivers know what you plan to do. 36 Multiple turn lanes: If there are signs or lane markings for two or more turning lanes, stay in your lane during the turn. 37 While waiting to turn, keep your wheels straight and your foot on the brake. If your vehicle is struck from behind, you are less likely to be pushed into oncoming traffic. Continue signaling until you begin your turn. Do not make sudden turns from the wrong lane. Watch for traffic or obstacles in the road you plan to enter. Always finish your turn in the correct lane. If the car ahead of you is signaling for a left turn, slow down and prepare to stop. When waiting to make a left turn at a green light with oncoming traffic, position your car into the intersection where your body is even with the curb line. You may only be able to make the turn when the light changes to yellow. Turning on a Red Light Right Turn At many intersections, you can make a right turn while the traffic light is red. Make sure you are in the correct lane and come to a complete stop. Do not turn if there is a "No Turn on Red" sign. Check for pedestrians and traffic in all directions to make sure your path is clear. Watch for oncoming cars making left turns in front of you. Sometimes oncoming traffic will have a green arrow before your light turns green. Left Turn You can make a left turn from a one-way street onto another one-way street while the traffic light is red in certain situations. Before turning, come to a complete stop, make sure the intersection is clear and yield to any pedestrians or vehicles. Traffic must be allowed to travel in the direction you are turning. When turning on a red light: Yield to traffic and pedestrians. If a "No Turn on Red" sign is posted, wait until the light is green to turn. Roundabouts Roundabouts are designed to improve traffic flow and provide safer intersections than normal four-way stops. When approaching a roundabout: Slow down as you approach. For multi-lane roundabouts, choose the correct lane before entering. Yield to pedestrians and bicyclists crossing the road. Watch for signs or markings that require or prohibit certain movements. 38 When entering a roundabout: Yield to vehicles already in the roundabout. Do not enter until all traffic from the left has cleared. Drive counterclockwise until you reach your exit. Do not stop, pass, or change lanes within the roundabout. If an emergency vehicle approaches, exit the roundabout immediately and then pull over. For large vehicles: A vehicle longer than 40 feet, wider than 10 feet or any combination vehicle, may deviate from the lane as needed to drive through the roundabout, while being cautious of other traffic. In multi-lane roundabouts, if two large vehicles approach and drive through at the same time, the driver on the right must yield to the vehicle on the left, reducing speed or stopping if necessary. 39 J-turns J-turns are used to decrease fatalities and injuries caused by broadside crashes on four-lane divided highways. Crossing a divided highway using a J-turn Left-hand turn onto divided highway using a J-turn 40 At a J-turn, drivers on the side street approaching the divided highway always make a right turn. To cross the highway or make a left turn from the side street: 1. Come to a complete stop. 2. Turn right onto the highway. 3. Enter the designated left-turn lane that leads to the median opening and complete a U-turn. When making the right turn, you can cross both lanes and move into the left-turn lane in one motion when it is safe to do so. This minimizes the time spent in the through lanes of the divided highway. When completing the U-turn, you must yield to oncoming traffic and stop if necessary, before entering the through lanes of the divided highway. Divided Highway Crossing a rural divided highway can be dangerous. If there is enough space between the two roadways, you can cross one half and wait in the middle until it is safe to cross the second half. If there is no traffic from either direction, you can cross both roadways if it is safe. When waiting between the roadways, stay to the right of the center. When turning left onto a divided highway, use the same procedure as crossing straight across. Ensure there is enough space from oncoming traffic, so you do not impede them as you get up to speed after completing your turn. U-Turns A U-turn is a 180-degree turn that reverses your direction of travel. Do not make a U-turn unless you can do so without disrupting other traffic. "No U-Turn" signs indicate where U-turns are not allowed. You must not make U-turns on interstate freeways. They are also illegal near the tops of hills and on curves where other drivers cannot see you from 1,000 feet away. When necessary, on a roadway with two or more lanes in the same direction, a driver may turn the vehicle into the farthest lane and temporarily use the shoulder to make a U-turn. 41 Right-Hand Lane Travel When driving on a road with one lane in your direction, if you are going slow enough to create a traffic hazard, you must drive as close as possible to the right-hand curb or edge of the road. On highways with more than one lane in the same direction, drive in the right-hand lane when available. If you are in the left-most lane, move out of the lane to allow another vehicle to pass when practical. The exceptions to this rule are: When overtaking and passing another vehicle in the same direction. When preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway. When preparing to exit an expressway, freeway, or interstate highway on the left side. When driving an authorized emergency vehicle. When directed by an official traffic control device, a peace officer or in a highway work zone. Passing Improper passing causes many crashes. Be extra cautious when passing at night, when visibility is poor, and when the road is slippery. On two-lane roads where passing is allowed and traffic moves in both directions, you may pass on the left side of vehicles ahead of you. Do not exceed the speed limit to complete a pass. However, on two-lane highways with a posted speed limit of 55 mph or higher, the speed limit increases by 10 mph when you are lawfully passing another vehicle in the same direction. When preparing to pass: Ensure there is a safe distance between your vehicle and oncoming traffic. Check behind you to see if other drivers are preparing to pass you. When another driver is trying to pass you, stay in your own lane and do not increase speed. Use your left turn signal before moving into the left lane to pass. Use your right turn signal after passing and before returning to the right lane. Return to the right lane when you can see the entire vehicle you have just passed in your rearview mirror. You must return to the right side of the road before coming within 100 feet of an oncoming vehicle. Do not pass in locations where a “No Passing Zone” sign is posted or where there is a solid yellow line on your side of the center line. Double solid yellow lines mean no passing is allowed in either direction. 42 Do not pass: On a curve or hill where you cannot clearly see the road ahead for at least 700 feet. Within 100 feet of an intersection, underpass, tunnel or railroad crossing. When you are about to meet a vehicle coming toward you from the opposite direction. Passing on the Right A driver may pass on the right of another vehicle only under the following conditions: When it is safe to do so. Do not pass by driving in a bicycle lane, on the shoulder, or off the pavement or main part of the road. When the vehicle you are overtaking is making, or about to make, a left turn. On a street or highway with enough space to allow two or more lanes of moving vehicles to travel in each direction. On a one-way street or any road where traffic moves in one direction only. You may only pass on the right if there are no obstructions and the road is wide enough for two or more lanes of moving vehicles. Backing Up Backing up is not allowed on freeways or expressways, except for emergency vehicles on duty. Backing up on public roads can result in a charge of reckless or careless driving. If you must back out of a driveway onto a public road, back into the nearest lane and drive forward from there. Never back into or across lanes of traffic unless you are sure it is safe. Before you back up: Walk around your vehicle to make sure nothing is behind it. Look to the front, sides, and rear. Continue looking out the rear window while backing up. Do not rely solely on your mirrors or back-up camera. Back slowly into the nearest traffic lane. Parking When you parallel park, your vehicle’s wheels closest to the side of the road should be no more than 12 inches from the curb. Turn the front wheels toward the curb or shoulder, place the vehicle in park and engage the parking brake. This way, if the vehicle comes out of park or the brakes fail, the wheels will help it roll toward the curb or off the road, not into a traffic lane. 43 Parking is not allowed in the following areas: Within intersections. On a crosswalk or sidewalk. Within 20 feet of a crosswalk at an intersection. Within 30 feet of any flashing light, stop sign or traffic control signal on the side of a public road. Within 50 feet of the nearest rail of a railroad crossing. Within 10 feet of a fire hydrant. Alongside or across the street from any excavation site or obstacle if your vehicle would be in the way of traffic. At the street end of a driveway. On any bridge. Within any highway tunnel. On the traffic side of any vehicle parked at a curb or at the edge of a highway. This is known as "double parking". Beside a curb that is painted yellow or where official "No Parking" signs are posted. In front of mailboxes (refer to city/local ordinances). Exiting a Parked Vehicle When you are stopped or parked on the side of a road, do not open any doors until you have checked to make sure it is safe and will not interfere with other traffic. Look for vehicles, motorcycles, bicyclists, and pedestrians that may be approaching your vehicle. Do not leave any door on the side closest to moving traffic open longer than necessary to load or unload passengers. 44 45 Highway Parking If you are parking on state highways or freeways, you must be move your vehicle away from the main part of the road. If your vehicle cannot be moved, use visible markers or signals to prevent damage and harm to other drivers. If you park on the highway at night- or any-time lights are needed, you must have at least one white or amber front light and one red taillight illuminated on your vehicle. Both lights must be visible from at least 500 feet. Use parking lights or hazard warning lights to alert other drivers. Set headlights on parked vehicles to low beam. Passenger Safety It is your responsibility as the driver to ensure the safety of all passengers. Insist that everyone wears seat belts. You must make sure children are buckled into an age-appropriate child restraint system. Seat Belt Laws The seat belt is the most important safety equipment in your vehicle. In Minnesota, all vehicles must have seat belts, and everyone must use them. You as the driver and all of your passengers, including those in the back seat, must wear a properly adjusted and fastened seat belt. Law enforcement can stop motorists solely for seat belt violations. If you do not wear a seat belt, consider the following: Your chances of being killed or injured in a crash are four times greater. You can be killed in a crash even at speeds as low as 12 mph. Seat belts prevent occupants from being ejected in a crash. People thrown from vehicles are likely to die or suffer serious injuries. You are not legally required to wear a seat belt if you are: Driving a passenger vehicle in reverse. In a seat where all seat belts are being used by other passengers. Possessing a written certificate from a physician for medical reasons. Engaged in work that involves frequent exiting and entering the vehicle, as long as you do not drive faster than 25 mph. A rural mail carrier delivering mail for the U.S. Postal Service. Driving or riding in a pickup truck while engaged in farm work. Driving a vehicle made before Jan. 1, 1965. 46 Use Seat Belts Correctly You are more likely to survive a car crash if you use both the lap and shoulder belts together. Lap Belt: Adjust the lap belt to fit snugly across your hipbones or upper thighs. It should never be positioned across your abdomen or the soft part of your stomach. Shoulder Belt: Adjust the shoulder belt to fit snugly across your chest and the middle of your shoulder. When positioned correctly, the seat belt is much less likely to cause injuries in the event of a crash. Infant and Child Safety Seat Laws The back seat is the safest place in most vehicles. Children under 13 must ride in the back if it is available. Car seats and booster seats, also known as child safety restraint systems, must be federally approved and installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Children under two years of age must ride in a rear-facing car seat until they reach the weight or height limit of the car seat. If they are too heavy or too tall for the car seat, they must switch to a front-facing car seat. Once they turn two years old, if they are under both the height and weight limits, they must stay in the rear-facing car seat until they are too tall or heavy for the seat. Children older than two who exceed the rear-facing height or weight limit of the car seat must sit in a forward-facing car seat until they reach the height or weight limit (typically 40-60 pounds, depending on the manufacturer). A child from four to nine years old must use a booster seat and be secured with a safety belt if they are too tall or too heavy for the car seat. When a child is nine years old, or they exceed the weight or height limit of the booster seat, they must sit without the booster and be secured with a seat belt. Other Child Passenger Safety Guidelines Do not use a safety seat that has been in a crash. Child restraint systems expire six years from the date of manufacture. Some seats have a specific expiration date stamped on them. If no date is listed, follow the six-year recommendation. Never place rear-facing infant seats in front of an active airbag. Do not hold children on a passenger’s lap while riding in a vehicle. Children should not ride in the cargo area of a truck or station wagon. 47 Never Leave Children Unattended in a Vehicle Never leave children or vulnerable adults alone in a motor vehicle. Here are some dangers that could occur: Unattended occupants could engage the vehicle and cause a crash. Temperatures can reach dangerous extremes inside a vehicle, leading to death or serious injuries from heat or cold. The vehicle could be stolen or broken into by someone unaware it is occupied. Someone could break into the vehicle and abduct or harm the occupants. Leaving Your Vehicle Unattended Protect yourself from theft. Lock your doors and take your keys with you. Do not leave the vehicle running or leave the keys in the ignition or inside the vehicle. Do not leave valuables, or anything that looks valuable, inside the vehicle. Animal Safety You are responsible for the safety of animals in your vehicle. Be aware of the dangers of leaving animals unattended in vehicles during warm weather. Do not leave pets in vehicles, especially on very hot or cold days. Temperature extremes can be very dangerous to animals. Airbags An airbag is a supplemental restraint system. Airbags work with seat belts to prevent injuries but are not designed to keep occupants from being ejected. For safety reasons, children under age 13 must ride in the back seat if it is available. Airbag Safety Suggestions Try to keep at least 10 inches between yourself and the steering wheel. Keep your hands at the 8 and 4 o'clock or 9 and 3 o'clock positions on the steering wheel. Avoid the 10 and 2 o'clock position. Keep your thumbs turned out on the steering wheel. Move front passenger seats as far back as possible. Read your operator's manual before driving or riding in a vehicle with airbags. For more information about seat belts, airbags, and car safety seats, visit the Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety website at ots.dps.mn.gov. 48 Do Not Litter It is illegal to throw items from your vehicle onto streets, roads, and public or private land. Do not throw, leave, place, or dump any items, including: cigarettes, fireworks, debris, snow, ice, glass, nails, tacks, wire, cans, garbage, papers, ashes, refuse, carcasses, offal, trash or rubbish. What to Do in a Traffic Crash If you are involved in a crash, you must take certain actions to ensure safety and comply with the law: Stop. If possible, pull out of the driving lane onto the shoulder. Turn off the ignition to reduce the risk of fire. Protect yourself and the crash scene. Use emergency warning lights, flares or a flashlight to warn other drivers of danger. Call for help. If someone is injured or killed, call the nearest law enforcement agency or 911 as quickly as possible. If you are able and qualified, administer first aid. If not, make anyone who is injured comfortable. You are required by law to provide reasonable assistance to crash victims. Exchange information. Provide your name, address, date of birth, and vehicle registration number to other drivers and any law enforcement officer at the scene. Show your driver’s license to anyone who asks for it and to any law enforcement officer. Provide insurance information. If asked, give the name and address of your insurance carrier and the name of your agent. Give this information to the investigating law enforcement officer. If you do not have it with you, provide it within 72 hours. Property damage only: If the crash only results in property damage, you do not need to notify law enforcement. If your vehicle is disabled, have it towed as soon as possible. Damage to property: If you damage property other than a vehicle, inform the property owner. Insurance Owners of motor vehicles driven on public roads must carry no-fault and liability insurance. You must have valid proof of insurance in the vehicle at all times. Failing to provide proof of insurance when asked by a law enforcement officer can lead to revocation of your driver’s license and vehicle registration. 49 If your driving privileges are revoked for lack of insurance, you must: Pass a written test. Pay a $30 reinstatement fee in addition to any court fines or citations. Apply for a new driver’s license. Submit an insurance certificate from your insurance company. Operating an uninsured vehicle can result in the revocation of license plates and vehicle registration. Your driving privileges may be revoked for up to one year. If convicted of operating an uninsured vehicle, you may be fined up to $1,000 and sentenced to up to 90 days in jail. Motorcycle Insurance Motorcycle drivers in this state must have liability insurance that covers property damage and injuries to other people. No-fault and uninsured driver insurance coverage is optional. You can also get insurance for damage, loss or theft of the motorcycle. Registering Your Vehicle If you are a Minnesota resident, all of your motor vehicles that are driven on public roads must be registered with DVS. You have up to 60 days after becoming a resident to register your vehicle in Minnesota. To register your vehicle, bring the current vehicle title or registration card and your driver’s license or other valid identification to your local DVS deputy registrar’s office. Pay all fees and taxes associated with registration and title transfer. Once registered, you can renew the license plates online, by mail, or in person at any deputy registrar’s office. Cell phones You may not use a wireless communication device, like a cell phone, to compose, read or send electronic messages while driving. Electronic messages include emails, text messages and instant messages. You also may not access the internet. Exceptions: Using the device to get emergency assistance. Reporting a crash or crime. Using the device in voice-activated or hands-free mode. If you are convicted of two or more violations of using a wireless communication device to compose, read, or send messages while driving, you will be required to pay a $275 fine in addition to the court-specified fine. 50 Chapter 4 Sharing the Road The following laws and safety information apply to situations involving other vehicles and pedestrians. Stopping Stop Signs: Come to a complete stop at stop signs. If there is a marked stop line, stop before the line. If there is a pedestrian crosswalk, stop before entering the crosswalk. Yield the right-of-way to pedestrians, bicyclists, and traffic before proceeding. Obstructed View: If your view of the intersection is obstructed, be prepared to stop again for traffic or pedestrians in your path. You must also come to a complete stop: Before entering a road from an alley, private driveway, parking lot or parking ramp. Always stop before crossing a sidewalk or crosswalk. At an intersection or crosswalk with a traffic signal displaying a red light. Wait until the light turns green and your path is clear before proceeding. At any intersection or crosswalk, marked or unmarked, where a pedestrian or bicyclist is crossing the road. Stay stopped until they have passed your lane. At a flashing red traffic light. Treat it as you would a stop sign. At a freeway ramp meter when the light is red. At a railroad crossing with a stop sign. When a flag person or traffic device directs you to stop. At a bridge that has been raised to open a path for boats. Stopping for a School Bus School buses have yellow and red lights that flash alternately to warn drivers they are stopping to load or unload students. Flashing Yellow Lights Bus drivers will activate flashing yellow lights at least 100 feet before a school bus stops in a speed zone of 35 mph or less. They will activate the lights at least 300 feet before it stops in a speed zone of more than 35 mph. It is against the law to pass on the right side of a school bus while it is displaying red or yellow flashing lights. 51 Minnesota Driver’s Manual Flashing Red Lights Flashing red lights warn drivers that the school bus is loading or unloading students. When you see a school bus that is stopped with its red lights flashing and its stop arm extended, you must stop your vehicle at least 20 feet from the bus. Regardless of whether you are facing the front or back of the bus, you must remain stopped until the stop arm is retracted, and the red lights stop flashing. If you don’t, you can be charged with a misdemeanor. If convicted, you must pay a fine of at least $500 and lose your driving privileges. Passing a School Bus It is illegal to pass a school bus when its red lights are flashing, and its stop arm is extended. If you are driving on a divided roadway, you do not need to stop for a school bus with red lights flashing if it is on the opposite side of the divider. A law enforcement officer with probable cause to believe you have violated this law may arrest you within four hours of the violation. 52 Vehicle Owner May Be Penalized When your vehicle is used to violate the school bus stop arm law, you are guilty of a petty misdemeanor if you own or lease the vehicle. However, if you can prove that another person was driving the vehicle at the time, the driver will be charged with the violation. When you apply for a driver’s license, you must certify, by signing the application, that you understand the requirement to stop for a school bus and are aware of the penalties for violating this law. School Safety Patrol When you see a student safety patrol helping schoolmates cross a street or highway, you must come to a complete stop. You must also stop for adult crossing guards displaying a stop sign or flag. It is illegal to drive through a line of children crossing the road, even if a school safety patrol is not present. Violating this law is a misdemeanor. A second violation within a year is a gross misdemeanor. School Bus Flagger You must stop for a school bus flagger directing traffic to allow school buses to leave school property. After being stopped by a school bus flagger, you may not proceed until directed to do so by the flagger or a police officer. 53 Minnesota Driver’s Manual Right of Way and Yielding Right-of-way and yielding laws help traffic flow smoothly and safely. They are based on courtesy and common sense. Violating these laws is a leading cause of traffic crashes. Intersections Without Traffic Lights or Signals: When you reach an intersection at the same time as another driver, the driver on the left must yield to the one on the right. All-Way Stops or Flashing Red Traffic Lights: When you reach an intersection at the same time as another driver, the driver on the left must yield to the one on the right. Left Turns: When you want to make a left turn, you must yield to vehicles approaching from the opposite direction that are in the intersection or close enough to pose a risk of a crash. Green Arrow Signal for Left Turn: When a green arrow signals that you are allowed to turn left, you must yield to other vehicles or pedestrians already in the intersection. After yielding, you may continue in the direction of the arrow. Uncontrolled “T” Intersections: When you approach an uncontrolled “T” intersection, you must yield to all cross traffic if you are the one turning. Entering a Public Road from a Private Road or Driveway: You must stop and yield to pedestrians and traffic. Transit and Metro Mobility Buses: When driving in the right lane, you must yield to transit and metro mobility buses merging from a bus stop or shoulder. This includes yielding to any school bus trying to enter the lane from a shoulder, a right-turn lane, or other location where the school bus has stopped to load or unload passengers. The school bus must use the left turn signal to indicate intent to move into the right-hand lane. Funeral Processions: When a funeral procession identifies itself with headlights or hazard warning lights, you must yield to the entire procession. Pedestrians: You must yield to pedestrians crossing at intersections and crosswalks, whether marked or unmarked. Yield to Emergency Vehicles When an emergency vehicle (such as an ambulance, fire truck or police car) with flashing red lights and sounding a siren or bell approaches your vehicle on a two-way road, you must pull to the right and stop. On a one-way road, pull to the nearest side and stop. If you are in an intersection, proceed through it before stopping. Remain stopped until all emergency vehicles have passed. A law enforcement officer with probable cause to believe you have violated this law may arrest you within four hours of the violation. You do not need to stop if the emergency vehicle is separated from your lane of traffic by a physical barrier like a fence, wall, or median strip. 54 Minnesota Driver’s Manual Passing Parked Emergency/Service Vehicles When an emergency vehicle with flashing lights is stopped on or next to a road with two lanes in the same direction, the Move Over Law requires you to move to the lane farthest away from the vehicle if it is safe to do so. Emergency vehicles include tow trucks, ambulances, fire trucks and police cars. If you cannot move a lane away or are on a street or highway with only one lane in your direction, slow down and pass with caution. You must follow the same rule when approaching stalled or disabled vehicles and when passing parked vehicles such as service patrol vehicles, road maintenance vehicles, utility company vehicles, construction vehicles, postal vehicles, or solid waste and recycling vehicles that are stopped with warning lights activated. Following Firefighting Vehicles Only vehicles on official emergency business are allowed to follow within 500 feet of a firefighting vehicle on an emergency run. Do not drive over an unprotected fire hose unless directed by a law enforcement officer or fire department official. Following Other Vehicles You must maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. You must be able to stop or turn to avoid a collision. Consider weather, traffic, and road conditions when determining a safe following distance. Use the three-second rule to help maintain a safe following distance. (See "Three-Second Rule" in Chapter 6.) Careless and Reckless Driving Careless driving means driving or stopping a vehicle in a way that endangers the lives and safety of people or property. Reckless driving means driving a vehicle while knowingly disregarding a substantial and unjustifiable risk that may harm others or their property, including racing or contest driving. Racing is defined as intentionally comparing or contesting relative speeds by operating one or more vehicles, regardless of whether the speed exceeds the speed limit. If you are charged with careless or reckless driving, you will be tried in court for a misdemeanor. What to Do and Expect when Stopped by Law Enforcement Being stopped by a law enforcement officer can be stressful, but knowing what to do can ensure a safe interaction for everyone. When you see emergency lights behind you: Stay calm. 55 Minnesota Driver’s Manual Slow down and activate your turn signal. Pull to the right shoulder as soon as safely possible; if on a multilane road and closer to the left shoulder, move to the left shoulder if there is a full lane to park. Avoid stopping on a bridge, curve or within the lane of traffic. If stopped after dark, turn on your vehicle’s interior light. Keep all doors shut and remain in the vehicle unless directed otherwise by the officer. Keep your hands on the steering wheel so they are easily visible. Give the officer your full attention. The officer may ask to see your identification (driver’s license, photo ID, etc.) and proof of insurance. If the documents are out of reach, tell the officer where they are located before reaching for them. When the officer completes their interaction with you, they may issue a verbal warning, written warning or traffic citation that may include a fine. If you disagree with the citation, do not argue with the officer. You can explain your point of view in court. If you have questions about the warning or citation, ask the officer before the interaction is completed. Avoid getting out of your vehicle after the officer walks away. Failure to follow or comply with any lawful order or direction of a law enforcement officer is illegal and can result in your arrest. Do not resist if taken into custody. The enforcement of traffic laws helps change unsafe driving behavior, reduces crashes and injuries, and saves lives. If you receive a warning or citation, the intent is to deter future illegal or unsafe behavior and keep roadways safe. Clear communication from all involved parties can make a traffic stop safe. If you have a firearm in the vehicle: Keep your hands on the steering wheel in a visible location. When the officer first approaches, inform them that you have a firearm and where it is located, while keeping your hands on the steering wheel. Do not reach for the firearm. The officer may take possession of the weapon for safety reasons until the interaction is complete. Do not make sudden movements or search for your documents; wait for the officer’s

Minnesota Driver's Manual 2024 PDF

Document Details

Tags

Related

Summary

Full Transcript

Upgrade to continue