How to Get or Renew Your Driver's License in North Dakota

Getting a North Dakota Driver's License: The Basic Process

North Dakota issues driver's licenses through the Department of Transportation. You can get your first license, renew an expiring one, or replace a lost or damaged card by visiting a driver's license exam station in person. North Dakota does not issue licenses by mail or online, so you will need to show up with the right documents and be prepared to pass a written test if you are explore for the first time.

The state has exam stations in most counties. You can find the one nearest you on the North Dakota Department of Transportation website, which lists addresses, phone numbers, and hours. Some stations are busier than others, so calling ahead to ask about wait times can save you a trip.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a North Dakota driver's license exam station in person with a valid ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN.
First-time applicants must pass a written knowledge test and a vision screening; you may also need to pass a driving test depending on your age and experience.
Renewal by mail is available only if your license is not expired by more than one year and you meet certain other conditions — otherwise you must go in person.
A standard North Dakota driver's license is valid for eight years, and the fee varies depending on whether you are renewing or getting a new license.
You can check the exam station nearest you and call ahead to confirm hours and current wait times before you go.

What Documents You Need to Bring

North Dakota requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN. For identity, bring a valid passport, military ID, or another government-issued photo ID. If you do not have one of these, you can bring two documents from a secondary list — a birth certificate plus a school ID, work ID, or utility bill in your name.

Proof of residency means a recent document showing your current North Dakota address. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days will work. If you have just moved and do not have a document yet, bring a signed letter from your landlord or a property manager on letterhead, or a recent lease agreement.

Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring your ITIN documentation. You will also need to bring your current license if you are renewing, or your learner's permit if you are upgrading to a full license.

First-Time Applicants: Tests and Requirements

If you have never held a North Dakota driver's license, you will take a written knowledge test at the exam station. The test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. You can study using the North Dakota Driver's Manual, which is free on the Department of Transportation website. Most people take the test on the same day they explore.

You will also have your vision screened at the station. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If your vision does not meet the state standard even with correction, you may not be issued a license.

Whether you need a driving test depends on your age and whether you already hold a valid license from another state. If you are under 18 and have never held a license, you will need to pass a driving test. If you are 18 or older and transferring a valid license from another state, you may not need to take the driving test — ask the exam station when you call.

Renewing Your License by Mail or in Person

If your license is still valid or expired by less than one year, you may be able to renew by mail. You must have held your current license for at least four years, have no medical restrictions, and not need to update your photo. To renew by mail, contact the exam station in your county and request a renewal form, or read it from the Department of Transportation website.

Mail your completed form, your current license, and the renewal fee to the address on the form. Processing takes about two weeks. If you do not meet the mail-renewal conditions — for example, your license expired more than a year ago — you must renew in person at an exam station.

When you renew in person, you will not take the knowledge test again, but you will have your vision screened and your photo updated. Bring the same documents you would bring for any visit: ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN.

Fees and How Long It Takes

North Dakota charges different fees depending on what you are doing. A new license costs more than a renewal. A replacement for a lost or damaged card costs less than either. The exact amount varies, so call your local exam station to confirm the current fee before you go.

If you explore in person, you usually receive your license on the spot or within a few days. If you renew by mail, expect two to three weeks. If you need your license urgently and cannot wait, ask the exam station whether they can issue a temporary paper license while your permanent card is being made.

Replacing a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged License

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, visit an exam station with your ID, proof of residency, and Social Security number or ITIN. You do not need to take any tests — the station will issue a replacement card with the same information as your original. The fee for a replacement is lower than the fee for a new license.

If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to local police, though this is not required to get a replacement. Some people do this to protect themselves in case someone tries to use the stolen license fraudulently.

Special Situations: Changing Your Name or Address

If you have changed your name since your license was issued, you will need to show proof of the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Bring this document along with your regular ID and residency documents when you visit the exam station. You can update your address at the same time without needing additional documents.

If you move to a different county in North Dakota, you do not need to get a new license unless yours is expiring soon. However, you should update your address with the Department of Transportation. You can do this by mail or in person at any exam station.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online or by phone?

No. North Dakota requires you to renew in person at an exam station or by mail if you meet the specific conditions for mail renewal. You cannot renew online or by phone, and no third-party service can do it for you.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test the same day or schedule another appointment. There is usually a small fee for each retake. Most people pass on the second or third attempt if they study the Driver's Manual between tries.

How do I know which exam station is closest to me?

Visit the North Dakota Department of Transportation website and search for driver's license exam stations by county. Each listing shows the address, phone number, and hours. Calling ahead is a good idea because some stations have longer waits than others, especially on Fridays and at the end of the month.

What if I moved to North Dakota from another state?

You can transfer your out-of-state license to a North Dakota license. Bring your current license, ID, proof of North Dakota residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN. Depending on your age and how long you held your previous license, you may not need to take the written or driving test.

Can someone else pick up my license for me?

No. You must be present when you explore for or pick up your license. The exam station will not issue a license to anyone but the person whose name is on it.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.