The death of a loved one entails many responsibilities, including notifying various departments and organizations. If the deceased was a resident of Minnesota and held a driver's license, you'll need to inform the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS). This blog post will guide you through the process.
Who Should Be Notified
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services is the state agency responsible for licensing drivers and registering vehicles. If your loved one resided in Minnesota and had a driver's license or owned a vehicle, the DVS should be informed of their death.
When to Notify
You should notify the DVS as soon as it is practically possible after the death of your loved one. This will prevent any potential misuse of the deceased's driver's license and facilitate the transfer or cancellation of vehicle registration.
How to Notify
To inform the DVS about the death, you should mail a copy of the death certificate to the DVS. The death certificate should be sent to: Driver and Vehicle Services, 445 Minnesota Street, St. Paul, MN 55101. Note that they do not accept notifications by phone or email.
What to Expect After Notification
Once the DVS receives the death certificate, they will cancel the deceased's driver's license and update their records accordingly. If the deceased owned a vehicle, the DVS will provide instructions for transferring or cancelling the vehicle's registration. This typically requires additional documentation such as title of the vehicle.
Tips for Notification
When sending the death certificate to the DVS, it's advisable to send it via certified mail. This provides proof of delivery. Keep a copy of the death certificate and the mailing receipt for your records.
Conclusion
Notifying the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services of a loved one's death is a necessary task that will ensure the deceased's driving records are appropriately closed and prevent potential misuse. Though it may seem like a small detail amidst larger responsibilities, it is an important step in settling their affairs.
FAQ
Q: Can I notify the DVS in person?
A: Currently, the DVS accepts death notifications only by mail. You cannot notify them in person or by phone or email.
Q: What if the deceased owned multiple vehicles?
A: The DVS will provide instructions for transferring or cancelling the registration of each vehicle. You'll likely need the title for each vehicle.
Q: Can the DVS help with transferring vehicle ownership?
A: Yes, the DVS can provide guidance on how to transfer vehicle ownership after the death of the owner.
