Find information about driver license requirements, restrictions for age levels, fees and more. You can also find information on residency requirements. See also license renewals.
Requirements
- A ND Driver License Site must be visited to obtain a North Dakota operator's license.
- An appointment is needed for all services.
- Address changes should be reported to the Driver License Division.
- Commercial license holders must obtain a duplicate license if there is a change of address.
- You may renew your driver license 10 months prior to its expiration date without losing any of the time remaining on your current license.
- You must retest if your license is expired more than one year.
Age Requirements
The minimum driving age in North Dakota is 16. You may not drive in North Dakota if you are under 16, even if you are licensed in another state. However, a North Dakota resident can obtain a restricted license at the age of 15. A parent or legal guardian must sign for a minor under the age of 18 to be issued a permit or license.
If you are at least 14 years of age and wish to be identified as a donor on your operator's license, permit, or identification card, you may do so by signing the donor identification block on the application form.
Identification and Address Requirements
Commercial Driver License (CDL)
Residency
- Any person other than a nonresident student, a tourist, or a nonresident member of the Armed Forces who has lived in this state for 90 consecutive days shall be deemed a resident of North Dakota for the purpose of driver licensing.
- You may use your non-commercial license from another state for a period of 60 days after you become a resident of North Dakota.
- You may use your commercial license from another state for a period of 30 days after you become a resident of North Dakota.
- Proof of North Dakota resident address may be required.
- A North Dakota licensed driver who is a member of the Armed Forces and stationed out of state may continue to use their non-commercial North Dakota driver license until 30 days after separation without renewing, provided the license is accompanied by military identification and has not been suspended, revoked, or canceled.
- It is advised that you contact our office every four years to ensure your record remains on file with us. This extension does not apply to North Dakota military dependents.
- Upon return to the state, the North Dakota license, Military ID Card, and proof of duty station must be presented to obtain a new license.
- Acceptable forms of proof of duty station are discharge orders (presented within 30 days of separation), leave papers, leave and earnings statement, PCS orders, or a letter from the duty station.
Fees
- Written test: $5.00
- Road test: $5.00
- Duplicate license or permit: $8.00 (or $3.00 for name or address change only)
- Non-commercial permit or license: $15.00
- Commercial permit or license: $15.00 plus $3.00 per endorsement
Ways to Request Your Driving Record
Visit the driver record request system to submit an online request.
You can also mail in the Request for Driver Abstract (SFN 51386) form and include the $3 fee.
Mail to:
Driver License Division
608 E Boulevard Ave
Bismarck ND 58505-0700