Important Minnesota Driving Laws for Parents of Teen Drivers
(Notable updates and changes from the past 20 years — updated for 2025)
1. Ignition Interlock & DWI Law Changes (Updated August 1, 2025)
Minnesota has expanded its ignition interlock program and toughened DWI enforcement:
- Ignition interlock (a breathalyzer that prevents starting the car if alcohol is detected) is now more widely required, especially for repeat offenders.
- The DWI “lookback period” (how far back prior DWI convictions are considered) was extended from 10 to 20 years.
- This means repeat offenses up to 20 years apart may carry enhanced penalties.
2. Motorcycle Lane Splitting and Filtering Legal (Effective July 1, 2025)
Motorcyclists can now legally split and filter lanes with restrictions:
- Lane Splitting:
- Allowed when traffic is moving below 25 mph.
- Riders can pass between cars at no more than 15 mph over traffic speed.
- Must return to a full lane when traffic exceeds 25 mph.
- Lane Filtering:
- Allowed in stopped traffic, like at a red light.
- Riders can move between vehicles at up to 15 mph.
- Prohibited Areas:
- Roundabouts, school zones, on-ramps, and construction zones narrowed to a single lane.
Motorists cannot block motorcycles that are splitting or filtering, but are not required to move over either. Teen drivers must stay alert and be respectful of motorcycles under the new law.
3. Tinted Windows Law (Updated 2025)
Front side windows must allow at least 50% of light through.
Factory tint + aftermarket tint may exceed legal limits—verify before modifying.
4. Car Seat & Booster Seat Law (Updated August 1, 2024)
Children under age 8 must use a booster seat unless they are 4’9″ or taller.
Teen drivers transporting younger siblings must follow this rule.
5. Move Over Law (Expanded 2023)
Drivers must move over or slow down for any vehicle with flashing lights (emergency, utility, maintenance, tow, etc.).
Applies on all roads, including two-lane highways.
6. No Texting While Stopped (Clarified 2023)
It is illegal to text, email, or use apps even when stopped at a red light or in traffic jams.
7. Hands-Free Law (Effective August 1, 2019)
Drivers cannot hold a phone while driving.
No texting, scrolling, or GPS input unless using voice commands or mounted one-touch activation.
Applies even when stopped at lights or in traffic.
8. School Bus Safety Law (Updated 2017)
It is illegal to pass a school bus with its stop arm extended and red lights flashing.
Stop-arm cameras may be used to issue citations.
9. Zipper Merging Law (Promoted since 2009)
Drivers should use both lanes fully up to the merge point and then take turns merging (like a zipper).
This method is both legal and efficient in congested traffic.
10. Graduated Driver’s Licensing (GDL) Laws (Updated 2008)
Provisional License Restrictions (under age 18):
- First 6 months: Only 1 passenger under 20 (unless family or with a parent/guardian).
- Next 6 months: Up to 3 passengers under 20 allowed.
- Midnight–5 a.m. driving ban during the first 6 months unless:
- With a licensed adult (25+), or
- Driving to/from work or a school event (no stops).