Bill > SF2309

This bill modifies Minnesota's dealer plate provisions to create a new framework for how motor vehicle dealers can use courtesy vehicles with dealer plates. Currently, dealer plates are primarily used for employee driving, vehicle demonstrations, and promotional events. The bill introduces a detailed set of conditions under which a dealer can allow a non-employee to drive a courtesy vehicle with a dealer plate. These conditions include that the vehicle must be part of a repair or service transaction, regularly offered as a courtesy vehicle, driven by someone with a valid license and insurance, marked with the dealer's business name, and have a lease agreement that clearly outlines driver responsibilities and potential liabilities. A "courtesy vehicle" is defined as a passenger automobile or truck temporarily provided at no or minimal cost to customers while their own vehicle is being serviced. The bill provides that such courtesy vehicles are exempt from the typical 72-hour driving restriction and certain registration and sales tax requirements. The new provisions will become effective on July 1, 2025, for dealer license plates issued on or after that date, giving dealers time to adjust their practices to comply with the new regulations.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF2309&ssn=0&y=2025