Check your license status through the North Dakota Department of Transportation

The fastest way to find out whether your North Dakota driver's license is suspended is to contact the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) directly. You can call their Driver License Division at 701-328-2725 during business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time. Have your driver's license number or Social Security number ready when you call — they will need one or the other to look up your status.

You can also visit the NDDOT office in person if you are in the Bismarck area. The main office is located at 608 East Boulevard Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58505. If you live elsewhere in the state, you can find a local driver's license station through the NDDOT website and visit during their hours.

A third option is to mail a written request to the NDDOT Driver License Division. Include your full name, date of birth, driver's license number, and a self-addressed stamped envelope. Mail it to: North Dakota Department of Transportation, Driver License Division, 608 East Boulevard Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58505. This method takes longer — typically one to two weeks — but works if you cannot call or visit in person.

Key Takeaways

  • Call the NDDOT Driver License Division at 701-328-2725 with your license number or Social Security number to learn your status when ready.
  • A suspension means you cannot legally drive; a revocation means your license has been cancelled and you must reapply to get a new one.
  • Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, medical conditions, or too many points on your driving record.
  • Once you resolve the reason for the suspension, you must contact NDDOT to confirm the suspension has been lifted before driving again.

Understand the difference between suspension and revocation

North Dakota uses two different terms that mean different things. A suspension is temporary — your license is taken away for a set period, but you can get it back once you meet certain conditions. A revocation is permanent unless you go through a formal process to have it reinstated; your license is cancelled and you must reapply for a new one.

When you call NDDOT, they will tell you which one applies to you and what you need to do to resolve it. If your license is suspended, they will explain what caused it and what steps you must take. If it is revoked, they will tell you whether reinstatement is possible and what that process looks like.

Common reasons your license might be suspended in North Dakota

North Dakota suspends licenses for several reasons. Unpaid traffic fines or court-ordered fines are one of the most common — if you do not pay by the important date, NDDOT will suspend your license automatically. Failure to appear in court for a traffic ticket or criminal charge also triggers suspension. If you were ordered to pay child support and fall behind, that can result in suspension as well.

Medical reasons can lead to suspension too. If you have a seizure disorder, certain vision problems, or other conditions that affect your ability to drive safely, NDDOT may suspend your license pending a medical evaluation. Accumulating too many points on your driving record — typically 12 or more within a 12-month period — will also result in suspension.

Driving under the influence (DUI) or refusing a breath test carries an automatic suspension. If you are convicted of certain drug-related offenses, your license may be suspended as part of the sentence. Some suspensions are also tied to insurance — if you let your auto insurance lapse and were in an accident, NDDOT may suspend your license.

What to do if your license is suspended

Once you know why your license is suspended, take action to resolve the underlying issue. If it is unpaid fines, contact the court that issued the ticket and pay what you owe. If it is a failure to appear, contact the court when ready to reschedule or resolve the case. If it is child support, work with your local child support enforcement office to bring your account current.

For medical suspensions, you will need to see a doctor and have them complete the required medical evaluation form. Submit that form to NDDOT along with any other documentation they request. For point-based suspensions, you straightforward have to wait out the suspension period — NDDOT will automatically reinstate your license once the time has passed and you have met any other requirements.

After you have resolved the issue, call NDDOT again to confirm that your suspension has been lifted. Do not assume it is automatically removed from their system — you need written or verbal confirmation before you drive. Some suspensions require you to pay a reinstatement fee; NDDOT will tell you the amount when you call.

Reinstatement fees and requirements

North Dakota charges a reinstatement fee to restore your license after a suspension. The fee varies depending on the reason for the suspension and how long it lasted. Call NDDOT to find out the exact amount you owe. Some suspensions have no fee; others may cost $20 to $100 or more.

You may also be required to provide proof that you have resolved the underlying issue — for example, a receipt showing you paid your fines, a court document showing you appeared, or a medical clearance form. NDDOT will tell you what documents to bring or mail when you contact them about reinstatement.

How to avoid future suspensions

Pay traffic fines and court-ordered payments by their due dates. If you receive a ticket or court notice, respond promptly and appear in court if required. Keep your auto insurance active and current — let your insurance company know when ready if you have a lapse. Drive safely to avoid accumulating points on your record.

If you have a medical condition that might affect your driving, report it to NDDOT before it becomes a problem. If you are ordered to pay child support, make your payments on time. These steps will help you avoid the hassle and expense of a suspension.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive if my license is suspended?

No. Driving with a suspended license is illegal in North Dakota and can result in additional fines, criminal charges, and further suspension. If you are stopped by police, your vehicle may be impounded and you could face jail time depending on the circumstances.

How long does a suspension usually last?

The length varies. Some suspensions last 30 days, others 90 days or longer. Medical suspensions may last until you complete an evaluation. Point-based suspensions depend on how many points you have. NDDOT will tell you the exact duration when you call.

What if I moved out of North Dakota — do I still need to resolve my suspension?

Yes. Most states share suspension information through a national database. If you move and try to get a license in another state, that suspension will show up. You should resolve it with North Dakota before explore for a license elsewhere.

Can I get a hardship license while mine is suspended?

North Dakota does offer limited driving permits in some cases, but they are not automatic. Call NDDOT to ask whether you may have access to for a hardship permit based on your specific suspension. You will need to show that you have a genuine need to drive — for work, medical appointments, or school — and that no other transportation is available.

What if I disagree with the suspension?

You have the right to request a hearing. Contact NDDOT to ask about the appeal process for your type of suspension. You will need to file a written request within a certain timeframe, and a hearing officer will review your case. Bring any documents that support your position.