What you need to get a North Dakota driver's license
North Dakota issues driver's licenses through the Department of Transportation. To get one, you must visit a driver's license exam station in person — you cannot complete the process by mail or online. You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of North Dakota residency, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
Acceptable identity documents include a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or certified birth certificate. For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your process.
The written test covers North Dakota traffic laws and road signs. You can study using the North Dakota Driver's Manual, available free on the Department of Transportation website. The road test requires you to demonstrate basic driving skills in a vehicle you provide — it must be registered and insured.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a driver's license exam station in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.
- The written test covers North Dakota traffic laws and road signs; study materials are free on the Department of Transportation website.
- You will take a road test in your own vehicle, which must be registered and insured.
- Standard licenses are valid for eight years; you can renew by mail or online if you have no medical restrictions and have not had violations.
- Exam stations are located in most county seats; you can find the nearest one and check hours on the Department of Transportation website.
Where to find a driver's license exam station
North Dakota operates driver's license exam stations in most county seats and some larger cities. The Department of Transportation maintains a list of all stations with their addresses and hours on its website. Hours vary by location, and some stations operate only certain days of the week, so check before you go.
You do not need an appointment at most stations, but some locations ask you to call ahead during busy seasons. If you live in a rural area far from the nearest station, contact your local county transportation office — they can tell you about mobile exam units or alternative locations that may serve your area.
Costs and fees
North Dakota charges a fee for each license issued. The cost depends on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard eight-year license costs less than a four-year license. Commercial driver's licenses and endorsements carry additional fees.
Fees are paid at the exam station when you submit your process. North Dakota accepts cash and card payments. If you fail the written or road test, you may retake it, but each attempt may involve a retest fee — ask the exam station staff what applies to your situation.
Renewing your North Dakota driver's license
If your license is not suspended or revoked and you have no medical restrictions, you can renew by mail or online without visiting an exam station. Mail renewal requires you to send your current license, a completed renewal form, and the renewal fee to the Department of Transportation. Online renewal is available through the department's website and is faster.
You must renew before your license expires. North Dakota sends a renewal notice by mail about 60 days before expiration. If you miss the important date, you will need to reapply in person at an exam station as if you were getting a license for the first time.
If you have had a traffic violation, medical condition, or license suspension since your last license was issued, you may not be able to renew by mail or online. Contact the Department of Transportation to find out whether you must visit an exam station.
Changing your name or address
If you change your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you must update your license. Bring your current license, proof of the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and proof of your current address to an exam station. There is usually a small fee for a replacement license with your new name.
If you move within North Dakota, you can update your address by mail or online without getting a new license — your current license remains valid. You have 30 days after moving to update your address with the Department of Transportation.
Licenses for people under 18
North Dakota issues instruction permits and restricted licenses to drivers under 18. An instruction permit allows you to practice driving with a licensed adult in the vehicle. A restricted license lets you drive alone during certain hours, usually with limits on nighttime driving and passenger restrictions.
To get an instruction permit, you must pass the written test and have a parent or guardian sign your process. You must hold the permit for a set period before you can take the road test for a restricted license. The Department of Transportation website lists the current waiting period and all restrictions that explore.
What to do if your license is lost, stolen, or damaged
If your license is lost or stolen, report it to the Department of Transportation and request a replacement. You can do this by mail or by visiting an exam station. Bring proof of identity and proof of residency. A replacement license costs less than a new license and has the same expiration date as your original.
If your license is damaged but still readable, you can exchange it for a replacement at an exam station. Bring your current license and the replacement fee. If the damage is severe, the exam station staff will decide whether the license can be replaced or whether you must reapply.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a North Dakota driver's license after I pass the road test?
The exam station issues a temporary permit on the day you pass, valid for 30 days while your permanent license is printed and mailed. Your permanent license usually arrives within two weeks. If it does not arrive within 30 days, contact the Department of Transportation.
Can I renew my license if I have an out-of-state address?
No. North Dakota requires you to be a resident to hold a North Dakota license. If you move out of state, you must surrender your license and get one from your new state. If you move back to North Dakota later, you will need to reapply in person.
What happens if I fail the written or road test?
You can retake the test. Most exam stations let you retake the written test the same day or within a few days. The road test usually requires scheduling another appointment. Each retake may involve a fee — ask the exam station what you owe before you leave.
Do I need a Real ID compliant license to fly within the United States?
Starting May 2025, a standard North Dakota driver's license will not be enough to board a domestic flight — you will need a Real ID compliant license or another federal ID like a passport. When you renew or get a new license, ask the exam station whether your license will be Real ID compliant. You may need to bring additional documents.
Can I get a license if I do not have a Social Security number?
You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number instead. Bring documentation of your ITIN along with your other required documents. Contact the Department of Transportation ahead of time to confirm what documents they need from you.