What You Need to Get a North Dakota Driver's License

To get a North Dakota driver's license, you must visit a driver's license exam station in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. North Dakota does not issue licenses by mail or online. You will take a written test on traffic laws, a vision test, and a driving test before the license is issued.

The state accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, or certified birth certificate as proof of identity. For residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days showing your current North Dakota address. Your Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return can serve as proof of your Social Security number.

You must be at least 14 years old to get a learner's permit, 16 to get a Class D (regular passenger vehicle) license, and 18 to get a commercial license. If you are under 18, you will need a parent or guardian to sign your process in person.

Key Takeaways

  • North Dakota requires you to bring proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number to any driver's license exam station; you cannot start the process online or by mail.
  • You must pass a written test on traffic laws, a vision screening, and a behind-the-wheel driving test before receiving your license.
  • A Class D license for regular passenger vehicles costs $100 and is valid for eight years; renewal costs $80.
  • If you move to North Dakota from another state, you have 30 days to exchange your out-of-state license for a North Dakota license at any exam station.
  • North Dakota offers REAL ID-compliant licenses, which are required for federal building access and domestic air travel starting May 7, 2025.

Exam Station Locations and Hours

North Dakota operates driver's license exam stations in Bismarck, Fargo, Grand Forks, Minot, Williston, and Dickinson. Each station handles written tests, vision tests, and road tests. You do not need an appointment at most locations, but you should arrive early because wait times vary by station and time of day.

The Bismarck station is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Fargo station keeps the same hours. Smaller stations in Grand Forks, Minot, Williston, and Dickinson have reduced hours, typically 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays only. Call ahead or check the North Dakota Department of Transportation website to confirm current hours before you travel, as staffing changes can affect availability.

Written Test and Vision Screening

The written test covers North Dakota traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 24 of 35 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and several other languages. You can study using the North Dakota Driver's Manual, which is free and available online or in print at any exam station.

The vision screening checks whether you can see 20/40 or better with or without corrective lenses. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you will be referred to an eye care professional and cannot proceed with your license until you return with proof of corrected vision.

You are allowed to retake the written test if you fail, but you must wait one day before your next attempt. There is no additional fee for retakes.

Road Test Requirements and What to Bring

The road test lasts about 20 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe driving judgment. You will drive on city streets and possibly highways. The examiner will ask you to perform tasks like parallel parking, three-point turns, and lane changes. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle's registration and proof of insurance must be current.

Bring your learner's permit, proof of identity, and proof of residency to the road test. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must be present. You cannot take the road test if you have failed it more than twice in the past 12 months without waiting 30 days between attempts.

License Costs and Validity Periods

A Class D driver's license costs $100 and is valid for eight years. If you are over 65, your license is valid for four years and costs $50. A REAL ID-compliant license costs an additional $10 and is valid for the same period. Learner's permits cost $20 and are valid for one year.

Renewal by mail is available if your license is not expired and you have no medical restrictions. Renewal costs $80 for a standard license or $90 for REAL ID. If your license is expired or you have restrictions, you must renew in person at an exam station.

Transferring an Out-of-State License

If you move to North Dakota from another state, you have 30 days to exchange your out-of-state license for a North Dakota license. You do not need to retake the written or road tests if your out-of-state license is valid. Bring your current out-of-state license, proof of North Dakota residency, and proof of your Social Security number to any exam station.

The exchange fee is $100 for a standard license or $110 for REAL ID. Your new license will be valid for eight years from the date of issue. If your out-of-state license has already expired, you will need to pass the written and road tests as if you were a new driver.

REAL ID Compliance and What It Means

North Dakota issues REAL ID-compliant licenses, which meet federal standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID license will be required for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. A standard North Dakota driver's license will no longer be accepted for these purposes after that date.

To get a REAL ID license, bring the same documents as a regular license plus an additional proof of residency document if your identity document does not show your current address. The REAL ID license looks the same as a standard license but has a gold star in the upper right corner. The cost is $10 more than a standard license.

If you already have a valid passport or passport card, you do not need a REAL ID license for air travel. The passport will continue to work for domestic flights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my North Dakota license online?

No. North Dakota does not offer online renewal. You can renew by mail if your license is not expired and you have no medical restrictions. Otherwise, you must renew in person at a driver's license exam station.

What happens if I fail the road test?

You can retake the road test after waiting one day. There is no additional fee. If you fail more than twice in 12 months, you must wait 30 days before your next attempt. You keep your learner's permit and can continue practicing.

Do I need a REAL ID license if I have a passport?

No. A valid U.S. passport or passport card works for domestic air travel and federal building access. You do not need a REAL ID license if you have either document. However, a REAL ID license is more convenient if you travel frequently and do not want to carry your passport.

What if I move out of state after getting a North Dakota license?

Your North Dakota license remains valid until it expires. You do not need to exchange it when ready. However, most states require you to get a local license within 30 to 60 days of establishing residency. Check your new state's requirements.

Can I get a license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or unpaid fine?

North Dakota may suspend or deny your license if you have unpaid traffic fines or court-ordered child support arrears. Contact the North Dakota Department of Transportation or the court that issued the ticket to resolve the matter before explore for or renewing your license.