Logo
One logo
MnDOT has one official logo. It’s an important part of our brand. Creating new logos for teams, websites, or projects is not allowed because it weakens the MnDOT brand and can confuse people.
Where to use the logo
The MnDOT logo should be on everything that represents the department—like vehicles, websites, documents, videos and clothing. Only use one logo per item (like one logo on a brochure cover or one on a shirt). For documents with many pages, put the logo only on the front and back covers. Don’t use the logo just for decoration.
Use the right logo file
Always use the official digital logo files. Don’t try to make your own version or change the font, colors, or layout. You can resize the logo, but don’t stretch or squish it. Keep the shape and proportions the same.
If you need a different format or version, contact the MnDOT Communications Graphics Team.
Logo formats available
Logos come in different layouts (horizontal and vertical) and file types (like PNG, EPS, TIF, EMF). They are available in:
- Full color
- Reverse color (for dark backgrounds)
- Grayscale
- Reverse grayscale
These are available for download in different formats depending on your needs.
Downloads
 Full Color |
 Reverse |
 Grayscale |
 Grayscale Reverse |
|---|---|---|---|
|
EMF format (horizontal, full color)(transparent background for ArcGIS) |
EMF format (horizontal, reverse)(transparent background for ArcGIS) |
EMF format (horizontal, grayscale) (transparent background for ArcGIS) |
|
 Full Color |
 Reverse |
 Grayscale |
 Grayscale Reverse |
|---|---|---|---|
|
EMF format (vertical, full color) (transparent background for ArcGIS) |
EMF format (vertical, reverse color) (transparent background for ArcGIS) |
EMF format (vertical, grayscale) (transparent background for ArcGIS) |
EMF format (vertical, reverse grayscale) (transparent background for ArcGIS) |
Logo use
New logos
If you want to create a new logo, you must get approval from the Office of Communications and Public Engagement before starting.
Special Logo Rules
- Project Logos: Logos for highway projects are not allowed. The approved option is a highway symbol with text, but it must go next to the MnDOT logo—not replace it. Don’t use nicknames or local slang for project names.
- Office and District Logos: Offices, teams, and districts should not have their own logos.
- Program Logos: Some long-term public programs (like Adopt a Highway or SEEDS) are allowed to have logos. These must be approved and created by the Digital Communications Team.
- Marketing Campaigns: Always use the MnDOT logo in marketing materials.
Vendor and contractor logos
MnDOT works with many vendors and contractors. Sometimes, they want to include their logos in materials like reports, presentations or videos. But, don’t include vendor logos in materials.
Definitions - paid contractor, or partner?
MnDOT culture is inclusive, and contractors are thought of and commonly referred to as “partners.” However, a company that is paid to create and deliver work is a “work for hire.” Vendors who have legal contracts to deliver specified work are financially compensated and bound by contractual language.
Contract language
MnDOT's standard contract language specifies that the vendor cannot say that the state endorses its product or services. Including a company logo, wordmark or language referencing the company name implies an endorsement and should not be included in public materials. Any contractor request for a testimonial to be used in promotional material is also considered endorsements and should not be provided.
State statute
Minnesota State Statute 16C.055 limits “barter arrangements” that prevent MnDOT from making agreements or arrangements to display a vendor logo etc.. Such an action is viewed as a form of non-monetary compensation from the vendor. See detail below.
Intellectual property rights
MnDOT intellectual property rights clause in standard contracts requires MnDOT to remove the vendor logo because those works are treated as “works for hire.”