The Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) covers all traffic rules and regulations, working hand-in-hand with the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and other local enforcement agencies in the state. Through these agencies and their "Drive Smart!" campaign, drivers operating on Minnesota's roadways are guided, aware, and well-informed.
Failing to follow Minnesota's traffic laws, such as parking regulations, speed limits, and other traffic rules, can lead to penalties like fines, license suspension, and even jail or prison time. Therefore, all drivers in the state should learn and follow these regulations to ensure their own safety and that of others on the road.
What Are the Major Traffic Violations in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, traffic violations are categorized into petty offenses, misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors, and felonies. Petty offenses are minor and not considered crimes, with fines of up to $300 and no jail time. An example is minor speeding.
In contrast, misdemeanors are more serious, carrying penalties of up to 90 days in jail, fines of up to $1,000, and probation of one to two years. Examples include careless driving, speeding, and driving without a license.
Meanwhile, gross misdemeanors involve severe offenses such as a second DWI (driving while impaired). Penalties include up to one year in jail, fines of up to $3,000, and probation of three to six years.
Felonies are the most serious violations involving substantial harm or risk. Notable felonies include hit-and-run incidents and criminal vehicular homicide. These offenses carry prison sentences exceeding one year, hefty fines, and extended probation.
According to the Minnesota DVS, felony traffic violations can remain on a person's record for 5 to 10 years, which reflects the severity of these offenses.
Criminal Vehicular Homicide
In Minnesota, causing the death of another person while driving can result in severe criminal charges. Criminal vehicular homicide, one of the most serious traffic violations, is governed by Minnesota Statutes (MN Stat.) Section 609.2112.
A driver can be convicted of felony criminal vehicular homicide for causing death through gross negligence, violating DUI (driving under the influence) laws, or neglecting to fix a cited vehicle defect. Additionally, causing a fatal collision and fleeing the scene constitutes vehicular manslaughter.
Gross negligence involves acting without any care for the risk posed to others. In extreme cases, drivers may face first-degree manslaughter charges, carrying a 15-year prison sentence.
Second-degree manslaughter and criminal vehicular homicide both have a maximum penalty of ten years in prison and a $20,000 fine. If the offender has a prior qualified driving offense within ten years, the penalty increases to 15 years in prison.
Upon arrest for criminal vehicular homicide, the driver's license is immediately suspended. Convictions involving alcohol or drugs lead to license revocations of six to ten years, while other convictions carry a ten-year revocation. There is a one-year waiting period before applying for a limited license.
Speeding
Minnesota enforces three types of speeding laws: basic, absolute, and presumed limits, according to MN Stat. Section 169.14. The basic speeding law mandates that drivers maintain speeds that are reasonable and prudent under current conditions, such as poor visibility or adverse weather.
Absolute limits are straightforward, with any speed above the posted limit constituting a violation. Presumed limits suggest that a speed is unsafe unless proven otherwise. Typical speed limits in Minnesota are:
- 10 mph in alleys
- 30 mph in urban areas
- 55 mph in most other locations
- 65 mph on urban freeways and expressways
- 70 mph on interstate highways outside urban areas
Speeding violations generally result in petty misdemeanors, with fines ranging from $40 to $150. Increased fines apply for infractions in school zones, work zones, or near emergency vehicles. Enhanced penalties, including misdemeanors, apply if speeding endangers people or property or for repeat offenses, which may lead to up to 90 days in jail and fines up to $1,000.
Reckless and Careless Driving
Reckless driving is a serious offense in Minnesota, defined under MN Stat. Section 169.13. It includes operating a vehicle in a manner that poses a substantial and unjustifiable risk to others or their property, with the driver consciously ignoring this risk. Street racing also qualifies as reckless driving.
The penalties for reckless driving depend on the specifics of the incident. Standard reckless driving is classified as a misdemeanor, which can result in up to 90 days in jail and fines reaching $1,000.
If reckless driving causes serious bodily injury, it escalates to a gross misdemeanor, with penalties of up to one year in jail and fines up to $3,000. Additionally, a conviction may lead to a driver's license suspension for up to one year, although this is not mandatory.
Minnesota also penalizes "careless driving," which is defined as operating or stopping a vehicle carelessly or heedlessly, endangering or likely to endanger people or property.
The penalties for careless driving are similar to those for standard reckless driving, with potential jail time of up to 90 days and fines of up to $1,000.
Driving While Impaired
In Minnesota, driving while impaired (DWI), also known as driving under the influence (DUI), is outlined in MN Stat. Section 169A.20.
This includes operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs, having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or having any amount of a Schedule I or II controlled substance (excluding marijuana) in the body. Refusing a breath test after a lawful DWI arrest is also a violation of the implied consent law.
Penalties for a DWI conviction involve both administrative and criminal consequences. Administrative penalties, enforced by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (MN DPS), can include driver's license revocation, plate impoundment, and vehicle forfeiture.
Offenders may need to use special "whiskey plates" to drive again after their standard plates are impounded. A limited license for work, school, or treatment can be obtained by installing an ignition interlock device (IID) and paying associated costs.
Criminal penalties depend on the offense's severity. Fourth-degree DWI, a misdemeanor, can result in up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. More severe cases, like first-degree DWI (a felony), may lead to up to seven years in prison and fines of up to $14,000. Aggravating factors, such as a high BAC or prior offenses, can increase these penalties.
For drivers under 21, Minnesota's "Not-a-Drop" law prohibits any alcohol in their system. Violations can lead to up to 90 days in jail, a $1,000 fine, and a license suspension.
Driving Without a License or With a Suspended License
Operating a vehicle without a valid license is prohibited and classified as a misdemeanor under MN Stat. Section 171.02. To legally drive on public roads, individuals must possess a valid driver's license. Violations typically result in a fine of approximately $200, which includes a $100 base fine plus additional surcharges.
Drivers who hold a valid license but fail to carry it during a traffic stop may face a $100 fine. This citation can be dismissed if the driver provides proof of a valid license. Driving with an expired license, which generally remains valid for four years from the date of issuance, also incurs a $200 fine.
Penalties become more severe for those driving with a suspended, revoked, or canceled license, as specified in MN Stat. Section 171.24. Typically, such offenses are treated as misdemeanors, resulting in fines of around $200, which can total up to $300 with additional surcharges.
If the license was canceled due to being deemed "inimical to public safety", such as after multiple DWI convictions—the offense is classified as a gross misdemeanor. This can lead to a maximum penalty of one year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
Restoring driving privileges requires payment of fees, which vary depending on the violation. In some cases, drivers may need to retake the driver's test or meet other conditions.
How Does Minnesota DVS' Point System Work?
Unlike other states, Minnesota does not use a point system to track driving violations. Instead, the state uses a unique approach to monitor and penalize drivers for repeated offenses. This system evaluates the frequency and severity of traffic violations to determine when a driver's license should be suspended or revoked.
Alternative Evaluation System in Minnesota
In Minnesota, drivers can lose their driving privileges if they accumulate a specific number of traffic citations within a given timeframe. Only tickets in which the driver is found guilty, plead guilty, or contest with a no-contest plea will count towards this threshold.
The impact of such citations on a driving record depends on the nature of the traffic charge. The assessment period starts from the day a ticket is issued, not from the date of conviction. Thus, once a driver receives a citation, the timeline for potential penalties begins immediately.
License Revocation Due to Misdemeanors or Gross Misdemeanors
Traffic offenders convicted of misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor violations face the risk of license revocation. The duration of the revocation depends on the number of offenses within 12 months:
- Three or more misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor convictions in 12 months: 30-day revocation
- Four convictions in 12 months: 90-day revocation
- Five convictions in 12 months: 1 year revocation
License Suspension Due to Numerous Petty Misdemeanors
In Minnesota, accumulating multiple petty misdemeanor violations within a specific timeframe can lead to a license suspension.
Suspension temporarily removes driving privileges, unlike revocation, which requires applying for a new license and re-learning safe driving skills. Under Minnesota law, a license can be suspended in such cases for:
- Four petty misdemeanor convictions in 12 months: 30-day suspension
- Five convictions in 24 months: 30-day suspension
- Five convictions in 12 months: 90-day suspension
- Six convictions in 24 months: 90-day suspension
- Seven convictions in 24 months: 180-day suspension
- Eight or more convictions in 24 months: One-year suspension
What Is the Process for Handling Traffic Tickets in Minnesota?
Driving on the road is a learning process. Every day won't be as easy as the day before, and there may come a time when even the most careful driver commits a traffic infraction. A traffic ticket serves as a notice of the delinquency committed by a driver, which may be addressed in a couple of ways.
Responding to a Traffic Citation
Individuals given a traffic ticket in Minnesota have a few options for resolving the case. Offenders can either pay the traffic fine or challenge the citation by taking the case to court, but there are consequences to choosing which path to take.
Pay the Ticket
Paying a traffic ticket in Minnesota is considered an admission of guilt, which could result in a conviction and potential loss of driving privileges.
Motorists have several options for paying their traffic tickets. For those who prefer to pay in person, they should visit the district court where the citation was issued. Alternatively, payments can be made by mail to:
Minnesota Court Payment Center
P.O. Box 898
Willmar, MN 56201
Mailed payments must be made using a check or money order payable to "District Court Administration" and should include a copy of the citation or its number.
Online payments are also available through the state's Judicial Branch court web payment portal. This option incurs a $2.34 convenience fee and accepts VISA or MasterCard. Payments must be made at least seven days after receiving the citation.
Moreover, third-party services provide online payment options, which typically require the driver's full name, date of birth, issuing county, and citation number.
Drivers who are unable to pay the full amount by the due date should contact the Minnesota Court Payment Center at (651) 281–3219 or (800) 657–3611. They can discuss potential extensions or installment plans to manage the payment.
Contest the Ticket
In Minnesota, contesting a ticket provides an opportunity to avoid the penalties associated with a traffic conviction. Drivers choosing this option must schedule a hearing within 30 days of receiving the citation.
To resolve the matter without a court appearance, they can arrange a hearing officer appointment. This service is available in counties such as Ramsey, Hennepin, Dakota, and Washington. Hearing officer appointments can be done through remote technology or by mail. Drivers wishing to schedule a remote hearing can use the Minnesota Court Payment Center.
For remote appointments, they must provide a valid photo ID, proof of vehicle insurance, an accident report if applicable, and documentation of any corrections for equipment violations. For mail hearings, drivers must submit a clear copy of their driver's license, the citation, and a statement outlining the offense.
During such a hearing, the hearing officer will review the case and may offer options such as reduced fines, installment payments, or ticket dismissal with prosecution costs.
If the driver finds these options unsatisfactory, they can appeal the decision. If necessary, the case will proceed to a court trial under misdemeanor traffic laws. Attendance at a court hearing is required unless represented by an attorney. For petty offenses, hearings must be conducted within 30 days of setting the trial date to preserve the right to a hearing.
How Are Accident Reports Handled in Minnesota?
Previously, Minnesota drivers were obligated to file a Minnesota Motor Vehicle Accident Report if an accident resulted in injuries, fatalities, or property damage exceeding $1,000. Failure to report within ten days could lead to misdemeanor charges and potential license suspension.
However, this requirement was repealed on July 1, 2021. The Minnesota legislature removed the mandate for drivers to file accident reports. Now, the police officer investigating the crash is responsible for preparing an official incident report.
Drivers involved in the accident can request a copy of this report once it is completed. Personal injury lawyers will need this report to support any claims or legal proceedings related to the accident.
Obtaining Accident Reports
As mentioned earlier, the investigating police officer is responsible for submitting the accident report to the commissioner of public safety within ten days, either in written or electronic format.
Individuals directly involved in the crash, including drivers, passengers, vehicle owners, property owners, pedestrians, and those listed on the police report, insurance representatives, and legal representatives, can request a copy of the report. They can submit their request in person or by mail to:
Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services Division
445 Minnesota Street, St. Paul
MN 55101-5161
Alternatively, crash report requests can be faxed to (651) 797-1244 or emailed to dvs.records@state.mn.us. A $5 search fee is required for each request, payable by check or money order to "Driver and Vehicle Services."
Reports will be available for request three weeks after the accident. To process a request, a signature must be required from an authorized requester. For additional information, individuals can contact (651) 215-1232.
What Should Drivers Know about Traffic-Related Arrests in Minnesota?
Understanding the intricacies of traffic-related arrests in Minnesota requires familiarity with the arrest process, awareness of legal rights, and appropriate steps for managing the consequences following an arrest.
Traffic Arrest Procedure in Minnesota
In Minnesota, traffic-related arrests typically occur due to offenses such as DUI, extreme speeding, or operating a vehicle with a revoked or suspended license. Officers may stop a vehicle if they suspect impairment or a serious violation.
During a traffic stop, officers might conduct field sobriety tests or use a breathalyzer to determine if the driver is under the influence. If tests indicate impairment or if other serious violations are present, the driver may be arrested.
Following the arrest, the individual is booked at a local jail, where they undergo fingerprinting and photographing. They may either be granted bail or remain in custody until their court appearance. Legal representation is advisable to navigate Minnesota-specific court procedures and potential consequences.
Rights of An Arrested Individual
Individuals facing arrest for traffic violations have several fundamental rights that serve as crucial protections. Knowing and effectively exercising these rights can significantly impact the outcome of a case, which ensures fair treatment and a just legal process.
Awareness of one's rights during an arrest is essential, spanning from initial interaction with law enforcement to court proceedings. Below are some fundamental rights of an arrested individual:
- To remain silent. An individual's 5th Amendment right protects against self-incrimination.
- To be represented legally. Anyone arrested is entitled to a lawyer, either self-provided or provided by the state.
- To understand the reason for arrest. Understanding the reason for their arrest can help an individual build a sound defense.
- To refuse a search. An arrested individual is free to decline a search without the proper warrant present.
- To be treated properly. Anybody arrested still has the right to be treated correctly and with dignity by an officer.
What to Do After Being Arrested
Defending against a felony-level traffic offense mirrors the process of fighting other felony charges. Rather than merely proving innocence, the focus often lies in reducing or dismissing charges. This may involve identifying procedural errors or equipment malfunctions.
If charges are dropped, penalties are negated. If not, an attorney can minimize punishments or reduce the charge to a non-felony. A felony conviction can have lifelong consequences, limiting future opportunities. While fines and potential jail time are significant, the long-term implications of a felony record show the importance of a vigorous defense against such charges.