Driver's License Academy

• Job seekers in Ramsey County, aged 18-24.
• Enrolled in credentialed or certificate career pathways, job training programs or industry exploration programs that require a driver’s license for employment.
• Experiencing barriers related to employment and training.

• Support obtaining Class D Instruction Permit.
• Tutoring for Class D Instruction Permit.
• Six hours of Behind-The-Wheel instruction.
• Vehicle for Class D road test.
• Fees for Class D driver’s license. *Cannot be used to pay fines and fees related to a suspended license.
• Incentive for reaching goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost for the Driver’s License Academy?

All supports are provided at no cost to the job seeker. In order to receive the maximum support, job seekers must ensure full participation in the Academy including attending all scheduled appointments and/or contact the driving school with any changes in availability.

Why are Ramsey County and the City of St. Paul investing in Driver’s License Academy?

The shifting economy and the need for more workers in a new pandemic economy requires young people to have their driver's licenses. Driver’s licenses are necessary to provide reliable transportation to jobs, to work a more flexible work schedule and increase earnings. Without the means to get a driver’s license employment and professional opportunities are limited.

What services are available through the Ramsey County Driver’s License Academy?

Ramsey County job seekers can receive individual support with applying for a permit, enrolling in behind the wheel instruction and support to get a class D driver’s license. Payment for support services will be made directly to vendors.

Is Behind the Wheel required as part of the Driver’s License Academy?

All job seekers enrolled in the Driver’s License Academy will be required to take six hours of behind the wheel instruction through a certified driving school in Ramsey County. If you have completed behind the wheel in the previous 6 months and can provide documentation from a driving school, you will not be required to take additional behind the wheel.

Why is everyone required to take Behind the Wheel instruction?

Behind the wheel instruction has been shown to help driver’s acquire and demonstrate legal, safe, responsible driving competence and habits that are needed to pass the road test. You are responsible for ensuring that you attend all required sessions.

What happens if I need to cancel a Behind the Wheel lesson?

If you are unable to keep a schedule appointment you must call the Driving School and let them know ASAP.

What are the approved Driving School’s in Ramsey County?

• A+ Driving School
• Change Drivers
• Driver’s Education Inc. 
• Midway Driving School
• Silver Lake Driving School

What are some examples of credentialed or certificate career pathways?

• Construction Trades.
• Automotive/Transportation.
• Manufacturing.
• Health and Human Services.
• Maintenance and Repair.
• Registered Apprenticeships.
• Other careers considered - email [email protected] if your career is not listed.

How will I be contacted regarding the Driver’s License Academy?

• If you completed the eligibility application via email, you will be contacted at the email address provided.
• If you completed the eligibility application over the phone, you will be contacted through the phone number you registered with.

Can the Driver’s License Academy pay fines and fees resulting in a suspended license?

The Driver’s License Academy is not able to pay fines and fees related to a suspended license.