The Covid-19 pandemic has affected every American in one way or another and Minnesota teenagers have not been spared. The closings of schools and the transition to remote learning have caused teens to miss out on important social development. First time driver’s license testing and applications were put on hold and/or have resulted in long lines since the reopening. Otherwise eligible drivers have been forced to wait several months before obtaining their license. The state of Minnesota has, however, announced some good news for would-be drivers.
As of October 5, aspiring Minnesota drivers hoping to get a learner’s permit are now able to take the knowledge test online. The move is aimed at relieving the long lines and multiple weeks wait times people are experiencing at exam stations across the state during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The test can now be taken online at home with a parent, guardian or adult 21 or older observing. The test now can also be taken at certain authorized third-party testing locations including a deputy register’s office and at some driver’s education programs.
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety had already been considering offering the exams online, but these plans were expedited when the pandemic hit.
“With the need for social distance, the fact that many of our customers are struggling with coming into our locations, and putting health and safety as a priority for our customers and our staff, it was a no-brainer that we needed to go here,” said an agent for the DMV.
The exam takes 30 minutes to complete and includes randomly selected questions. The exam process has security features that will make cheating difficult.
Minnesotans can now take the drivers’ test online by going to drive.mn.gov and clicking, “Take a Class D Knowledge Test.” Road tests still need to be taken in person, but getting a driver’s permit just got a lot easier.
