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Find information about how to apply for a learner's permit, including where to apply, what documents to bring, what to study, and how much it costs. This page also details the licensing requirements for different age groups.
Apply for a Learner's Permit
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Apply for a Learner's Permit
- You can apply in person at a North Dakota Driver License Site, or you can take the knowledge test online.
- In order to obtain a ND Learner's Permit, you must provide proof of identity and address.
- See the ID Checklist for a list of acceptable documents.
- Complete an application. All ND applications require you to provide your physical North Dakota address.
- All applications for permits, licenses, or identification cards must contain a Social Security number.
- Social Security numbers will be verified with the Social Security Administration. However, they will not be used as the driver license or identification card number.
- Successfully complete the Rules of the Road knowledge test.
- Refer to the Online Study Guide.
- Successfully complete a vision screening.
- If you are under the age of 18, you will need a sponsor's signature for approval and financial liability before a learner's permit will be issued to you.
Licensing Requirements
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Licensing Requirements
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Ages 14-15 Licensing Requirements
Steps to Become Licensed
- Must hold a valid learner’s permit for at least one year (six months if you received a permit prior to January 1, 2012).
- Must complete an acceptable formal driver's education course.
- Must complete 50 hours of practice driving in variable conditions. (Not applicable to those who received a permit prior to January 1, 2012.)
- Must successfully complete a road test through the state to become fully licensed.
Restrictions While Operating on a Learner’s Permit
- Must be accompanied by a supervisor driver in the front seat.
- May not operate an electronic communication device while operating a motor vehicle.
- May only operate a vehicle owned by a parent, guardian, grandparent, sibling, aunt or uncle unless in a vehicle equipped with dual controls and accompanied by a licensed driver trainer.
- May not have more passengers than the motor vehicle is designed to carry.
Restrictions While Operating on a Restricted Class D License
- May not operate a motor vehicle between sunset or 9 p.m. (whichever is later) and 5 a.m. unless a licensed driver is in the front seat or the vehicle is being driven directly to or from work, an official school activity or a religious activity.
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Ages 16-17 Licensing Requirements
Steps to Become Licensed
- Must hold a valid learner’s permit for at least six months.
- Must complete a road test through the state to become fully licensed.
Restrictions While Operating on a Learner’s Permit
- Must be accompanied by a supervising driver.
- May not operate an electronic communication device while operating a motor vehicle.
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Ages 18+ Licensing Requirements
Steps to Become Licensed
- Must complete a road test through the state to become fully licensed.
Restrictions while Operating on a Learner’s Permit
- Must be accompanied by a supervising driver.
FAQs
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FAQs
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What do I need to study?
In order to obtain a North Dakota Learner’s Permit, you will be required to successfully complete the knowledge test. Visit a ND Driver License Site to review a copy of the Rules of the Road manual, or consult the Online Study Guide.
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In which languages is the test offered?
The Non-Commercial Knowledge Test is offered in the following languages:
- Arabic
- Chinese
- English
- French
- Nepali
- Russian
- Serb Croatian
- Spanish
- Somali
- Swahili
- Turkish
- Vietnamese
Automated American Sign Language and Audio Testing is available at the Fargo, Jamestown, Bismarck, Dickinson, Williston, Minot, Devils Lake, and Grand Forks Driver License Offices.
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How much does it cost to get a learner's permit?
- Knowledge Test: $5 per attempt (one attempt allowed per day)
- Permit: $15
- Road Test: $5
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Where is the nearest Driver License Site?
See ND Driver License Sites for locations, days and hours of operation, and phone numbers.