Parents and Teens Frustrated with the Absence of Appointments for Drivers Examinations In Minnesota

Minnesota law requires teens at least 15 years old and under 18 to complete a written and behind-the-wheel skills validation exam upon turning 16, subject to exceptions. The Minnesota Driver's Manual states that driving exams typically take place on the third Wednesday of each month if you can schedule an appointment online. However, in recent weeks, numerous people have reported difficulty getting an appointment for this mandatory exam.

Thousands of teens in Minnesota have turned 16 within the last few months and are looking forward to getting behind the wheel. However, many teens and their parents have not been able to get their driving exam appointment. Those who try to schedule an appointment online get told there are no appointments available after they enter their zip code and birthdate.

In response to the large number of people who have attempted to schedule an appointment in the last few weeks, officials with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety's Office of Traffic Safety said they have been working on changing their appointment system. Also, they have been updating their calendar system to ensure any teen turning 16 can make an appointment in time.

A spokesman with the Office of Traffic Safety told Bring Me The News they had no way to answer whether these issues were due to a lack of availability or because too many people were trying to schedule exams.

The law that requires teens to complete a driving skills test when they turn 16 states that a state-recognized driver's education program must do this with an approved practice plan and exam. But, these requirements do not apply to teens who have completed the MN Driver's Education program or can get an exemption from the Department of Public Safety because they are homeschooled, have special needs, or are granted a waiver by their parents.