For operators
All fireworks displays must have a supervising operator conducting the display. The operator may have assistants, but they must be at least 18 years old. Operators must be at least 21 years of age.
To be certified:
Step 1: Pass the State of Minnesota fireworks operators’ examination
Step 2: Provide evidence of experience
Evidence of experience must include active participation as an assistant or operator in the performance of at least five fireworks displays, with at least one occurring in the current or preceding year.
Step 3: Pay a $100 certification fee
Card issuance will be delayed by 10 days if paying with personal check.
Certification is valid for a period of four calendar years from the date of issuance.
You can search our list currently certified Minnesota fireworks operators by clicking here.
More details on how to get certified
What do I do once I pass the certification exam?
Do not complete the certification application or submit any fees to us until you have successfully passed the certification exam.
Once you pass the certification exam, you can fill out the fireworks operator certification application. State statute requires you to complete this Minnesota Department of Revenue license application form and submit it with your application.
Reports you must submit to us
You are required as fireworks display operator to report displays to us within 30 days of the display. You can click here to fill out the form. The form includes instructions on how to return it by mail or online.
Fireworks operator certification renewal requirements
We will mail out the renewal forms at least three to four weeks prior to your expiration date.
Steps to renew your fireworks display operator permit:
- Apply for renewal of certification in writing by completing and signing application forms we send out in advance of the expiration date of the certification.
- Submit evidence of experience that must include, as a minimum, the dates, locations, and authorities issuing the permits for at least three safely conducted fireworks displays within the last four years.
- Pay the $100 renewal fee.
For applicants requesting certification renewal that have acted only as assistants, evidence of experience will be verified by cross-referencing display reports filed by the fireworks operator of record for each display the applicant has claimed on their renewal form to have been an assistant. These applicants must provide the name or certification number of the operator of record for each display that the applicant was listed as an assistant.
Indoor fireworks display permits
The following cities have been delegated the authority to issue indoor fireworks display permits for performances, shows or events occurring in their communities:
Other resources and helpful information
Click here to view the application for a permit to display indoor fireworks or pyrotechnic special effects.
Once an application for a permit has been approved, we will inspect the facility to determine its suitability for the conduct of an indoor pyrotechnics display. Check out these inspection guidelines.
The American Pyrotechnics Association has developed a Proximate Pyrotechnics Checklist for use by pyro technicians when planning for and conducting a proximate audience display. While we have not adopted this checklist for required usage, you can use it as guidance.