Question: Do I need an oversize or wideload permit to haul a boat lift that is over 9 feet wide to my cabin? Answer: You would need to obtain a permit because the width is over eight feet six inches. Hauling oversized items without a permit or escorts (if required) can be dangerous and is illegal. Troopers and private escort companies are required to be trained and … [Read more...]

Question: Yesterday, I saw a guy go by my house on a motorcycle. He had his daughter sitting in front of him while he operated the motorcycle. This girl could not have been more than seven years old. What is the age for a child to legally ride as a passenger in Minnesota? A second question, is it legal for that child to sit in front of the actual operator? Answer: A passenger … [Read more...]

Question: Can a young driver with a North Dakota Driving Permit legally drive in Minnesota? How about in other states? Answer: No, they cannot legally drive in Minnesota. In Minnesota, a nonresident who is at least 15 years old may drive here if they have in their immediate possession a valid driver’s license from their home state or country. If you are traveling in other … [Read more...]

Minnesota State Patrol Question: When the speed limit changes on a road, does the new speed limit start at the sign, or does it start when you can see the sign? Answer: The speed zone becomes effective when you reach the sign. If the speed limit reduces, you must slow down before the sign. If the speed limit increases, you must wait until you reach the new speed limit sign … [Read more...]

Question:  How fast can I drive before getting stopped? Is there a tolerance? Answer: State Patrol policy does not allow for any speeds in excess of the posted limit. Officers use their departmental policy, the totality of circumstances, all other conditions (road, weather, lighting and traffic), and common sense.  Speeding and driving too fast for conditions is discouraged … [Read more...]

Question: I have a short box pick-up. A friend wanted me to carry two 12-foot aluminum boats he had purchased. Being as they would have extended far past my seven foot or less truck bed, I declined, thinking it was too long to be legal.  Was I correct? What is the length limit for loads off the rear of a pick-up? Answer: According to Minnesota state law, no single vehicle may … [Read more...]

Question: I recently purchased a 2018 Polaris Ranger. We have a 2-year-old son and I am wondering what the laws are. Does he need to be in a car seat or booster seat with a helmet? Thank you in advance. Answer: When riding ATVs, OHVs and motorcycles on public lands or waters, or on a public road right-of-way, a passenger under age 18 must: • Wear an approved helmet. • Wear a … [Read more...]

Question:  If I rent a properly licensed and lighted tow dolly from a rental company, can I tow a non-running vehicle that is not licensed (no current plates) and not insured?  Do I need tail lights in addition to the dolly lights? Answer:  A tow dolly is used to tow a vehicle behind a recreational vehicle or other larger vehicle. It has two wheels, an axle and a tow-hitch … [Read more...]

Question: My son has a truck that he wants to jack up and make look cool......what are the rules for tire size, pipe noise, etc.....  I want to know what’s legal before he spends money on this stuff and then gets tickets! Answer: Making modifications to a passenger vehicle/pickup truck can change the way the vehicle handles, steers, brakes and could affect its overall … [Read more...]