Past research
Since 2007, MnDOT has gathered feedback and conducted studies to explore the road usage charge (RUC) concept, then referred to as mileage-based user fees or distance-based fees. This work has explored many different aspects of RUC to understand potential costs, administrative requirements and technical feasibility.
2007
MnDOT conducted qualitative research with nearly 100 Minnesotans to understand public and industry opinions regarding RUC. Research included an online discussion with eight industry experts and 10 focus groups comprising everyday Minnesotans in Duluth, the Twin Cities Metro and Mankato.
2008
To deepen our understanding of the public’s perspectives on RUC, MnDOT conducted nine mini-focus groups with 60 everyday Minnesotans in Duluth, the Twin Cities Metro, and Mankato.
2009
MnDOT conducted 821 phone-mail-phone interviews with randomly selected Minnesota drivers to learn more about their understanding of funding and transportation issues.
2011
MnDOT conducted the Minnesota Road Fee Test with 500 people in Hennepin and Wright Counties. The research tested technology that could eventually be used to measure miles and road use while strictly protecting driver privacy.
- Read the Minnesota Road Fee Evaluation Report (PDF)
- Read the Minnesota Road Fee Operations Report (PDF)
- Read the Policy Task Force Report (PDF)
2019
MnDOT was awarded a federal grant to plan and design a RUC approach using car share services. MnDOT partnered with two car share providers in Minnesota, as well as a connected and automated vehicle research firm, to plan, design, test, and certify the system. MnDOT also worked with the University of Minnesota to establish a rate-setting approach and administer a survey to more than 5,000 car share customers to gauge their support for the RUC concept.
2020
MnDOT received a grant to implement a 12-month pilot of the shared mobility-based RUC system using embedded telematics for assessment and reporting. A total of 64 share mobility fleet vehicles and one connected/automated vehicle provided road usage data. The project was successful in accurately collecting and transmitting the necessary data for RUC assessment and confirmed that levying fees on fleet services may lower RUC administrative costs by reducing the total number of collection points and accounts to be administered and audited.
2026
The Minnesota Road Usage Charge Demonstration (MnRUC Demo) is an important step toward sustainably funding our roads. This demo runs from March through August in 2026. By participating, drivers can understand what they might pay if RUC replaced the state fuel tax while also supporting MnDOT’s research about built-in vehicle technology. After enrolling and completing a survey, participants simply drive as they normally would for 6 months, no extra steps required. At the end of the demo, participants will be asked to take a final survey to share their experience. We use strict data protection practices to keep your information private.