The documents and steps to get your first North Dakota driver's license

To get a driver's license in North Dakota, you need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number to your local driver's license station. You'll also pass a written test on traffic laws, a vision screening, and a driving test. The whole process takes about an hour on the day you test, though you may need to schedule your appointment in advance depending on how busy your local office is.

North Dakota issues licenses through the Department of Transportation. You can find your nearest driver's license station on their website, which also shows current wait times and lets you book an appointment in some locations. Bringing the right documents the first time matters — if you're missing something, you'll have to come back.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring one document proving who you are, one proving where you live, and proof of your Social Security number — a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return all work.
  • North Dakota requires you to pass a written test on traffic rules, a vision test, and a behind-the-wheel driving test before you receive your license.
  • You must be at least 14 years old to get a learner's permit and at least 16 to get a full driver's license.
  • The fee for a driver's license is $40 for an eight-year license, and you pay it at the time you test.

What documents count as proof of identity

North Dakota accepts a passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, or state ID card as proof of who you are. If you don't have any of those, you can bring a combination of documents — for example, a birth certificate plus a high school diploma, or a birth certificate plus a utility bill in your name. The state publishes a full list of acceptable combinations on the Department of Transportation website.

Your document must not be expired. If your passport or military ID expired more than five years ago, North Dakota may not accept it. Bring the original document, not a photocopy — the staff need to see it in person.

What counts as proof of residency

Proof of residency means a document showing your current North Dakota address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. The document must be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and address. If you're homeless or living with someone else, you can bring a signed letter from the person whose address you're using, along with their ID.

A driver's license or ID from another state does not count as proof of residency in North Dakota, even if it shows an address. You need a separate document like those listed above.

How to prove your Social Security number

Bring your Social Security card if you have it. If you don't, you can bring a W-2 form, a tax return, a 1099 form, or a pay stub that shows your full Social Security number. The document must be original or certified — a photocopy usually won't work. If you don't have a Social Security number yet, you'll need to contact the Social Security Administration first.

Some people bring multiple documents by mistake. You only need one document proving your Social Security number, so bring whichever one you have that's easiest to find.

The written test, vision screening, and driving test

The written test covers North Dakota traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the North Dakota Driver's Manual, which is free on the Department of Transportation website. You need to answer at least 80 percent of the questions correctly to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at most locations, though you may have to pay the fee again.

The vision screening checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you'll need to see an eye doctor and bring a certificate of vision correction before you can get your license.

The driving test happens on the road near the driver's license station. A Department of Transportation examiner sits in the car with you and watches how you handle basic driving tasks — parking, turning, stopping, and following traffic laws. You need to show that you can control the vehicle safely. If you fail, you can retake it, usually within a few days.

Age requirements and learner's permits

You must be at least 14 years old to get a learner's permit in North Dakota. With a learner's permit, you can drive only when a licensed adult 21 or older is in the front seat with you. A learner's permit is valid for one year.

You can get a full driver's license at 16 if you've held a learner's permit for at least six months and passed the driving test. If you're under 18, your license will have restrictions — for example, you may not drive between midnight and 4 a.m. without a parent or guardian in the car. These restrictions lift when you turn 18.

Fees and how long your license lasts

A North Dakota driver's license costs $40 and is valid for eight years. You pay the fee when you pass your test. If you renew your license before it expires, the renewal fee is also $40 for another eight years. If your license has already expired, you may have to retake the written and driving tests — the rules depend on how long it's been expired.

You can renew your license by mail, online, or in person. The Department of Transportation website shows which renewal method works for your situation. If you change your address, you can update it online or at any driver's license station without paying a new fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a North Dakota driver's license if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. You need to bring proof of your legal presence in the United States — a passport, visa, work permit, or green card. The same identity and residency documents explore. Bring your original documents, not copies.

What if I lost my Social Security card and can't find another document with my number?

Contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card or a letter showing your number. You can do this online at ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Once you have a replacement card or letter, bring it to your driver's license appointment.

Do I have to take the written test if I already have a driver's license from another state?

No. If you're moving to North Dakota and already have a valid driver's license from another state, you can transfer it without taking the written or driving test. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of residency in North Dakota, and the fee. You'll still need a vision screening.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake it, usually within a few days. Most locations let you schedule another test appointment right away. You'll pay the fee again. There's no limit to how many times you can retake it, though some people find it helpful to take a few driving lessons between attempts.

Can I renew my license online?

You can renew online if your license is not expired and you haven't changed your address. The Department of Transportation website has an online renewal tool. If your license is expired or you need to update your address, you'll have to renew in person or by mail.