Minnesota Agencies

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety is a large and complex agency dedicated to prevention, preparedness, response, recovery, enforcement, and education. DPS' 15 divisions serve Minnesotans with programs in: law enforcement; fire code development, fire investigation and safety inspection; forensic science; crime and fraud prevention; crime victims’ services; homeland security and emergency management; emergency communications network management; traffic and motorcycle safety; driver licensing and vehicle registration; alcohol and gambling enforcement; pipeline safety and rule enforcement; and public safety education.

A major function of the old highway department, the Safety Division, had its functions transferred to the Department of Public Safety when it was created. The functions included the Minnesota State Patrol, drivers' license administration and safety promotion.

Minnesota Department of Public Safety currently is an enforcement, licensing, and services agency that develops and operates programs in the areas of law enforcement, traffic safety, alcohol and gambling, fire safety, driver licensing, vehicle registration, emergency management and public safety information.

Commissioner; term, 4 years or pleasure of governor