License Center

REAL ID Federal Enforcement Deadline Extended to May 3, 2023.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is extending the REAL ID full enforcement deadline to May 3, 2023.  The deadline was previously set for later this year.

Beginning May 3, 2023, Minnesotans will not be able to use their standard driver's license to board domestic flights or enter federal facilities.  Instead, they will need a REAL ID, enhanced driver's license or ID card, passport or passport card or another acceptable form of identification for federal purposes.

REAL ID Fact Sheet

REAL ID Infographic

The License Center is open with no appointment necessary.  All building access is through the Law Enforcement Center doors.  

Continued use of the drop box for Motor Vehicle Service, DNR and Disability transactions is encouraged.  When using the drop box option, please make sure to include a phone number in the event we need to contact you for clarification or additional information.

 Tab renewals:  please make sure to include your insurance information on the notice and your payment with a phone number. For weighted motorized vehicles over 10,000lbs, include your DOT #, and 55,000lbs or higher, include a copy of your HVUT (IRS 2290 form). 

 If you have not received a renewal notice, please call or email for instructions and fees – we will require a description of your vehicle, your insurance information and a signed request from the owner with address. (The signed request has to be in hard copy with live signature – cannot be an emailed statement)

Title Transfers: please call or email for assistance with completing the necessary documents required to process the transaction.  It is helpful if you can email a copy of the title (front and back) and provide the purchase price so that we can provide more accurate instructions when we respond to your request.

DNR – please call or email with your request so we can determine what documents are needed to complete your transaction.

The drop box is available and transactions are being processed daily.  


Transactions Performed

  • Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Recreational Vehicles
  • Drivers License
  • Expedited Drivers License
  • Motor Vehicle

Drivers License Exam Station

Freeborn County Testing

Thursday and Friday 8:30 am - 10:00 am

  • Written Test By Appointment Only 
  • Written Test for Motorcycle Walk-In 

Thursday and Friday 10:30 am - 3:30 pm

  • Driving Test By Appointment Only

To Make an Appointment:

  • drive.mn.gov
  • (651) 284-1234

DL/ID Issuing - (651) 297-3298

Commercial Driver’s License - (651) 297-5029

Driver Compliance - (651) 296-2025 or (651) 296-2948

Drop Box

There is also a drop box available 24 hours a day in the lobby of the Law Enforcement Center (LEC) for motor vehicle and/or DNR renewals. Items will be processed and mailed out the following business day.

Mail-Ins

Mail-ins are also welcome. Mail your motor vehicle and/or DNR renewals to:
Freeborn County License Center
P.O. Box 1147
Albert Lea, MN 56007

Please include in your envelope:

  • The motor vehicle registration renewal(s)
  • Include Insurance Information
  • A check for the correct amount with your drivers license number and phone number on your check to ensure proper delivery

Other things to note:

  • Make sure your address is correct
  • A SASE is optional
  • Verify this is the correct vehicle
  • It is your responsibility to verify all information is correct to ensure renewals are processed and delivered

Fraudulent Statements

Any fraudulent statements subject the applicant to a fine of up to $700. Returned checks are subject to a $30.00 fee. All dishonored checks will constitute criminal charges.

Criminal penalties can include a loss of drivers license and/or motor vehicle license. The issuance can also be sentenced to 90 days in jail and/or $700 fine, plus vehicle impound and fees incurred from such impound.