Where to go for a Devils Lake driver's license
The North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) issues all driver's licenses in the state, including in Devils Lake. You cannot get a license from any other office or online. You must visit the NDDOT Driver's License Examination Station in Devils Lake in person.
The Devils Lake station is located at 118 4th Street NW, Devils Lake, ND 58301. You can call them at (701) 662-0038 to confirm their hours before you go, since hours can change seasonally. The office is closed on weekends and state holidays.
If you cannot reach the Devils Lake office or need to know if they are temporarily closed, you can also contact the NDDOT main office in Bismarck at (701) 328-2725. They maintain a list of all active examination stations across the state.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit the NDDOT Driver's License Examination Station at 118 4th Street NW in Devils Lake in person — there is no online or mail option.
- Bring your current ID, proof of residency (utility bill or lease), and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number.
- You will take a written test on traffic laws, a vision test, and a driving test in that order before you receive your license.
- A new license costs a flat fee set by North Dakota; call ahead to confirm the current amount and whether they accept cash, card, or both.
- Processing time is usually the same day if you pass all tests, though the physical card may arrive by mail within one to two weeks.
Documents you need to bring
North Dakota requires three categories of documents. First, bring a current form of ID — a passport, military ID, tribal ID, or an existing driver's license all work. If you do not have any of these, call the Devils Lake station to ask what alternatives they accept, because the rules can vary slightly by location.
Second, bring proof of your current address in North Dakota. A utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works. A bank statement or insurance bill also counts. The document must show your name and your Devils Lake address.
Third, bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. An original Social Security card is best. If you do not have the card itself, a W-2 form, tax return, or 1099 form with your number on it will work. You cannot use a photocopy of your Social Security card — it must be the original.
Bring all three categories even if you think one might not explore to you. The staff will tell you on the spot if something does not meet their standard, and you do not want to make a second trip.
The written test, vision test, and driving test
After you hand in your documents, you will take three separate tests in order. You do not have to pass all three on the same day, but most people do.
The written test covers North Dakota traffic laws and safe driving practices. You answer 25 multiple-choice questions on a computer or paper form. You must answer at least 20 correctly to pass. The test takes about 15 to 20 minutes. You can study using the North Dakota Driver's Manual, which is free on the NDDOT website or available in print at the Devils Lake station.
The vision test checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. The examiner will have you read letters or numbers on a chart from a set distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. If you fail the vision test, you can retake it when ready if you have your corrective lenses with you.
The driving test happens on the road with an examiner in the car. You will demonstrate basic skills like starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and following traffic signs. The test usually lasts 15 to 20 minutes. You must use your own vehicle or a vehicle registered to someone you know. The vehicle must be in safe working condition — working brakes, lights, wipers, and steering are checked before you start.
Fees and payment methods
North Dakota sets a single fee for a new driver's license that applies statewide. The exact amount changes periodically, so call the Devils Lake station at (701) 662-0038 to confirm the current fee before you go. As of recent years, the fee has been in the range of $50 to $70, but you should verify the exact amount.
Ask when you call whether the Devils Lake station accepts cash, card, or both. Most NDDOT stations accept both, but payment methods can vary by location. If you plan to pay by card, bring the card itself — they do not typically process payments over the phone.
The fee covers the license itself and all three tests. If you fail a test, you can retake it, and retakes are usually included in the original fee or cost a small additional amount. Ask the staff about retake fees when you arrive.
What happens after you pass
If you pass all three tests, the staff will issue you a temporary paper license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for driving when ready and is good for about 30 days while your permanent card is printed and mailed to you.
Your permanent plastic license card will arrive by mail at the address you provided. Delivery usually takes one to two weeks from the date you passed your tests. The card will have your photo, signature, and license number on it. Do not drive without either the temporary paper license or the permanent card once the temporary expires.
If you fail any test, you can retake it. Ask the staff how soon you can schedule a retake — some stations allow you to retake the same day, while others require you to schedule a separate appointment. You do not have to retake tests you already passed.
If you are renewing or replacing an existing license
If you already have a North Dakota driver's license and it is still valid, you may be able to renew by mail or online instead of visiting in person. Check the NDDOT website or call the Devils Lake station to see if you are may be able to access for mail or online renewal.
If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you will need to visit the Devils Lake station in person to get a replacement. Bring the same documents listed above (current ID, proof of address, and Social Security information). The replacement fee may be different from a new license fee, so ask when you call.
If you are moving to Devils Lake from another state and have an out-of-state license, you must get a North Dakota license within a certain timeframe. North Dakota law requires you to get a new license within 30 days of establishing residency. Bring your out-of-state license along with your proof of North Dakota address and Social Security information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the driving test in a vehicle that is not registered to me?
Yes. The vehicle does not have to be registered to you, but it must be registered to someone. Bring the registration card with you. The vehicle must have working brakes, lights, wipers, and steering. The examiner will check these before you start driving.
What if I fail the written test or driving test?
You can retake the test you failed. Some stations let you retake it the same day; others require you to schedule a new appointment. Ask the staff when you arrive or call ahead. You do not pay the full fee again — retakes are either free or cost a small additional fee.
Do I need to schedule an appointment or can I just walk in?
Call the Devils Lake station at (701) 662-0038 to find out whether they take walk-ins or require appointments. Many NDDOT stations accept both, but it varies. Calling ahead also lets you confirm their hours and ask about current wait times.
What if I wear glasses or contacts?
Bring them with you. You will take the vision test wearing them if you normally drive with them. If you fail the vision test without them but pass with them, your license will have a restriction requiring you to wear corrective lenses while driving.
How long is a North Dakota driver's license valid?
A standard driver's license is valid for eight years from the date it is issued. Your license card will show the expiration date. You can renew before it expires, and renewal rules may allow you to renew by mail or online if your license is still valid.