Online license renewal could be available for some behind bars

The challenge of getting to a license bureau to renew a driver’s license is widespread enough to spawn a generation of stand-up routines. But for those who are incarcerated and physically unable to renew, it is no laughing matter.

A solution is allowing some incarcerated people the same option of remote renewal available to those who live part-time out of state, i.e., snowbirds.

A provision offering that option is included in HF1350, a Department of Vehicle Services policy bill that otherwise would mostly update and clarify some state statutes having to do with drivers’ licenses and license plates.

Sponsored by Rep. Brad Tabke (DFL-Shakopee), the bill as amended was laid over Tuesday by the House Transportation Finance and Policy Committee for possible omnibus bill inclusion.

The remote renewal process is intended for people incarcerated in non-Department of Corrections facilities such as county jails and would be only for drivers who remain credentialed, said Department of Vehicle Services Director Pong Xiong. The program would not be available for people whose driving privileges are revoked.

Rep. Nolan West (R-Blaine) said online renewal is a convenience for people in jail, and it would be nice to extend the convenience to more Minnesotans.

Though not in the bill heard Tuesday, Gov. Tim Walz has proposed in his budget an online renewal option. Tabke said that could come in a separate bill.

Other provisions in the bill would adjust outdated language, remove redundancies, or clarify statute to match current practices.

Among them is a provision that would extend accepted proof of residence documents to include a Health Savings Account, retirement account, assisted living or nursing home statement, a high school statement signed by a principal or other school authority, group home affidavits, and cable and internet bills.