| Agency Name: | Minnesota Department of Public Safety |
| Type: | department |
| Headquarters: | Saint Paul, Minnesota |
| Employees: | 1,855 |
| Budget: | $608.6m |
| Chief1 Name: | Bob Jacobson, |
| Chief1 Position: | Commissioner |
| Chief2 Name: | Cassandra O'Hern |
| Chief2 Position: | Deputy Commissioner |
| Chief3 Name: | Tom Smith |
| Chief3 Position: | Assistant Commissioner |
| Chief4 Name: | Tim Lynaugh |
| Chief4 Position: | Assistant Commissioner |
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) is a department of the State of Minnesota in the United States. DPS 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. The department coordinates the functions and services of the state relating to the safety and convenience of its citizens.[1]
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety was established in 1969 per Minnesota Statute 299a.[2] The State Highway Patrol and Drivers License Bureau, both formerly a part of the Minnesota Highway Department, were transferred to DPS in 1970.
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety is a large and complex agency dedicated to prevention, preparedness, response, recovery, enforcement and education.
The various divisions serve Minnesotans with programs in:
The department is led by the Commissioner of Public Safety, who is appointed by and reports directly to the Governor of Minnesota. Below is a list of the Public Safety Commissioners since it was formed: