First Steps
Critical to most other goals in recovery, the return to independent transportation can overwhelm even the most patient and persistent individuals. For many, participation in the Ignition Interlock Program will be an important part of the process.
Getting Started
First, obtain access to the online portal: https://onlineservices.dps.mn.gov/eservices/_/#1. Once you complete the online portal access, you will need to wait for a letter to arrive by US Mail. The letter will have a code necessary to obtain full access to your online account through the portal. The letter comes very quickly! Make certain to watch for it!
Review and Complete the Forms
There are several forms necessary to enter into an agreement with Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services Ignition Interlock program
Start by reviewing the CHECKLIST. The standard steps for applying for a license are outlined on the form.
Next, if you’re receiving any other public funding (food stamps/SNAP, state or county insurance, etc.), you’re eligible for reduced rates for the installation and monthly fees for the device. Complete the REDUCED FEE form.
The PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT is next. The agreement is binding and strict. Be sure to read it!
Finally, the SPECIAL REVIEW AWARENESS form is generally required. This form must be notarized, so don’t sign it until you are with an official notary. Banks usually have a notary, but you’ll want to call in advance.
Other forms may be required, but we won’t know that until we can look in the portal.
Form Submission
Each of these forms, as they’re completed, will be uploaded using the portal once you’ve obtained access. This is the fastest way to complete all the steps and make certain you are eligible before you go meet with anyone at the DMV!
The screen will look something like the image below. It is very user-friendly.
Fees and Grants
Some of us are eligible for grants to pay the fees. You can either search the internet for other options or try completing the form at the Minnesota Second Chance Coalition. The board is exceptionally generous! They only meet every other month, though, so it can be hard to depend on their help for the full amount. In my case, I’d paid everything except the last half of my fees, and when I went to pay the fees, I discovered they’d been paid!
Final Steps
Once we see in the portal what the requirements are for obtaining the license and complete and upload all the documents, pay the insurance, get a letter from treatment, etc., the final step is to go to the DMV and meet with an evaluator. Once they sign-off on the program documents, we apply for the new license. There is a fee to apply, and you may be required to take a written test.
The process is long and somewhat challenging to navigate. Using the portal helps. Being patient helps. Staying sober helps.
Together, we can do this thing!
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