Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session

Minnesota Senate Bill SF2271

Introduced
3/6/25  

Caption

Driver's license agents authorization to conduct behind-the-wheel road tests for class D drivers' licenses

Impact

If enacted, SF2271 would amend Minnesota Statutes to establish guidelines for the deputy testing programs. It outlines the requirements for becoming a certified deputy tester, including qualifications, record-keeping, and compliance with established standards. This change is expected to reduce wait times for road test appointments and provide additional opportunities for applicants to take their tests, potentially resulting in a more efficient licensing process. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions to ensure oversight of these deputy testing programs through audits and reporting requirements to maintain high standards of testing.

Summary

SF2271 proposes to authorize driver's license agents to conduct behind-the-wheel road tests for individuals applying for class D drivers' licenses in Minnesota. This bill aims to expand the existing framework for administering driver's license tests by allowing more agencies to participate in the testing process, thus increasing accessibility for applicants. The implementation is intended to relieve some of the burdens from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety by distributing the responsibility of conducting road tests to certified deputy testers, which may enhance efficiency in testing operations.

Contention

There might be concerns surrounding quality and consistency in road testing as the responsibility shifts to more localized entities. Critics may argue that allowing various agents to administer road tests could lead to discrepancies in test administration and outcomes, affecting overall public safety. Moreover, establishing effective oversight and audit protocols will be crucial in addressing potential issues of fraud or mismanagement in these deputy testing programs. Ensuring that all testers meet uniform standards will be essential to uphold the integrity of the licensing process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MN HF4566

Third-party programs and third-party testers authorized to conduct behind-the-wheel road tests for class D drivers' licenses, third-party program and testers requirements and criteria specified, audits required, and appeals of decisions made by the commissioner of public safety allowed.

MN SF845

Third-party testing program for driver's license knowledge, road and skills tests authorization

MN SF3676

Third party programs and third party testers approval, requirements and authorization provision

MN SF1148

Third-party commercial driver's license road tests authorization

MN HF2137

Third-party testing program authorized for driver's license knowledge, road, and skills tests.

MN HF2220

Third-party commercial driver's license road tests authorized, rulemaking authorized, and money appropriated.

MN HF2183

Driver and vehicle services provisions modified, full-service providers established, full-service providers allowed to provide copies of driver and vehicle records, filing fees increased for driver's license applications, requirement for new Minnesota residents to take written driver's license exam eliminated, access to driver and vehicle services information system modified, and money appropriated.

MN SF3993

Active transportation requirements amendments including electric bicycles and sales regulations, complete streets requirements, drivers education and appropriations

MN SF1336

Veterans; license plates, dealer licenses and records, USDOT numbers and driver's license applications various policy changes

MN HF3858

Active transportation requirements amended, including regulation of electric-assisted bicycles and sales, requirements on complete streets, and driver's education; and money appropriated.

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