What you need to renew your North Dakota driver license
North Dakota lets you renew your driver license in person at a driver license exam station, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through their portal. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time you have, and whether you need to update your address or other information.
If your license expired fewer than two years ago, you can renew by mail or online without taking a new written test or vision exam. If it expired more than two years ago, you must renew in person. Your current license, proof of North Dakota residency, and payment are required for any method.
Key Takeaways
- North Dakota offers online renewal through their driver license portal if your license expired within the last two years and you have not changed your address.
- Mail renewal is available for licenses expired fewer than two years ago, and you send your current license, a completed form, and payment to the state.
- In-person renewal at a driver license exam station is required if your license expired more than two years ago, or if you need to update your address or other personal information.
- You will need proof of North Dakota residency such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
- Renewal fees vary based on the type of license and how long you want it valid, typically ranging from $40 to $80 for a standard five-year renewal.
Renewing online through the North Dakota portal
The North Dakota Department of Transportation maintains an online driver license renewal system. You can access it through their official website by entering your driver license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will confirm whether you are may be able to access for online renewal.
Online renewal works only if your license expired within the last two years, your address has not changed, and you have not had any license suspensions or restrictions added. If you meet these conditions, you can complete the renewal, pay the fee by credit or debit card, and receive a temporary digital license when ready. Your physical license arrives by mail within one to two weeks.
Renewing by mail in North Dakota
To renew by mail, request Form SFN 14033 (process for North Dakota Driver License) from the North Dakota Department of Transportation or read it from their website. Fill out the form completely, including your current address and any changes to your name or other information.
Mail your completed form, your current driver license, and a check or money order for the renewal fee to the address listed on the form. Include a photocopy of your proof of residency if your address has changed. Mail renewal takes two to four weeks from the time the state receives your packet. This method is available only if your license expired fewer than two years ago and you have not had any license suspensions.
Renewing in person at a driver license exam station
Visit any North Dakota driver license exam station with your current license, proof of residency, and payment. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. If you have changed your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
In-person renewal is required if your license expired more than two years ago, because you must pass a vision screening and may need to retake the written test depending on your age and driving record. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You receive a temporary paper license on the spot and your permanent license arrives by mail within one to two weeks.
Documents and fees for North Dakota driver license renewal
You will need your current driver license and one document showing your North Dakota address. Acceptable proof of residency includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. A driver license from another state or a passport does not count as proof of residency.
Renewal fees depend on the type of license and how long you want it valid. A standard five-year renewal for a regular driver license costs around $40 to $50. A commercial driver license renewal costs more. Payment methods vary by renewal method: online and mail renewals accept credit cards, debit cards, or checks; in-person renewals accept cash, check, or card. North Dakota does not charge a separate fee for address changes.
What to do if your license has been suspended or revoked
If your license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it through the standard process. You must contact the North Dakota Department of Transportation to find out the reason for the suspension or revocation and what steps are required to restore your driving privileges.
Suspensions can result from unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or medical conditions. Revocations are more serious and typically result from serious violations or repeated offenses. The state will tell you whether you need to pay fines, complete a hearing, take a defensive driving course, or meet other conditions before you can renew. Once those conditions are met, you can proceed with renewal through the method that fits your situation.
Renewing a commercial driver license in North Dakota
Commercial driver license (CDL) renewals follow the same basic process as regular license renewals, but with additional requirements. You must renew in person at a driver license exam station if your CDL has any endorsements (such as hazmat or passenger) or if you have not renewed in more than eight years.
You will need to pass a vision exam and may need to pass a written test on the rules of the road and your specific endorsements. Bring your current CDL, proof of residency, and any documents related to your endorsements or medical certification. CDL renewal fees are higher than standard license fees and vary based on your endorsements. Contact your local driver license exam station for the exact fee and any additional documents required for your specific endorsements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my North Dakota driver license if I live out of state now?
No. North Dakota requires proof of current residency in the state to renew. If you have moved out of state, you must obtain a driver license from your new state of residence. You can surrender your North Dakota license by mail or in person at any exam station.
What happens if I renew my license but it arrives damaged or with errors?
Contact the North Dakota Department of Transportation with your renewal confirmation number and a description of the problem. They can issue a replacement license at no additional charge if the error was made by the state. If the license was damaged in the mail, they may ask you to return the damaged license before sending a replacement.
Do I need to take a new written test when I renew?
Not usually. If you renew by mail or online and your license expired fewer than two years ago, you skip the written test. If you renew in person and are under 76 years old, you typically do not need to retake the test unless your record shows violations or suspensions. Drivers 76 and older may be required to retake the test.
How long does it take to get my renewed license after I explore?
Online renewal gives you a temporary digital license when ready and your physical license arrives within one to two weeks. Mail renewal takes two to four weeks total. In-person renewal gives you a temporary paper license on the spot and your permanent license arrives within one to two weeks.
Can I renew my license early before it expires?
Yes. North Dakota allows you to renew up to one year before your license expires. Early renewal does not extend the expiration date beyond what it would have been; it straightforward resets the clock from your current expiration date. This can be useful if you are planning travel or want to avoid a last-minute rush.