Posted on

Do you need to get a driver’s license in North Dakota? We can help! This article will discuss everything you need to obtain a North Dakota driver’s license, commercial driver’s license, and motorcycle license. Read on to learn how to get your driver’s license.

Types of North Dakota Driver’s Licenses

There are different driver’s licenses you can obtain in North Dakota. The type of license you need depends on the type of vehicle you will be operating.

  • Class D – the standard ND driver’s license you must have to operate passenger vehicles, such as cars, trucks, and SUVs.
  • Minor Driver’s License – similar to a standard Class D driver’s license, but with more restrictions.
  • Motorcycle License – required to operate motorcycles and other two or three-wheeled bikes
  • Commercial Driver’s License – required to operate commercial vehicles that maintain a certain weight or carry at least 16 passengers, including the driver.

North Dakota Driver’s License Requirements

Before you hop in your car and travel to your local North Dakota Department of Transportation (ND DOT) you need to determine whether you are required to apply for a new ND driver’s license.

You need an ND driver’s license if the following applies:

  • You are a current ND resident who has never been licensed
  • You are a new resident of ND and want to apply for a North Dakota driver’s license or transfer an out-of-state driver’s license
  • You have legal presence in the ND and the U.S. (you are NOT required to have an ND driver’s license if you possess a diplomatic driver’s license that has been issued by the U.S. Department of State.)

You are NOT required to obtain an ND driver’s license if the following applies:

  • You are at least 18 years old and visiting North Dakota with a valid out-of-state driver’s license
  • You are an active military member or dependent who is stationed in ND, as long as you have a valid out-of-state driver’s license, and have not established residency in ND
  • You operate farm vehicles off public highways
  • You only operate registered off-highway vehicles and snowmobiles without accessing public roads (other than crossing the roads)

Applying for Your North Dakota Driver’s License

Before you can apply for your full ND driver’s license, you need to first receive an instruction permit so you can practice driving. You will need to visit your local ND DOT branch and do the following:

  • Provide proof of your identity (must be an original or certified copy ONLY), such as your:
    • Valid U.S. passport
    • Foreign passport and I-94 printout
    • U.S. birth certificate
  • Provide your Social Security Number (SSN)
  • Pass a vision test
  • Pass a written knowledge exam
  • Pay all applicable fees

Obtaining your instruction permit allows you to practice driving while being supervised by someone who is at least 18 years old and has had a driver’s license for at least 3 years.

When you’re ready to complete the driving exam, you need to make an appointment at your local ND DOT office. Make sure you bring your instruction permit and payment for all applicable fees. Once you pass the driving exam, you will be issued your North Dakota driver’s license. Congratulations!

North Dakota Driver’s License Fees

When you’re applying for a driver’s license in North Dakota, you need to pay the following DOT fees:

  • Instruction permit/driver’s license: $15
  • Written test: $5
  • Driving test: $5

North Dakota Written and Driving Tests

Before you can receive your ND driver’s license, you must pass the written knowledge and driving tests. If you have a valid out-of-state driver’s license, these tests may be waived.

Written Knowledge Exam

To take your written exam at an ND DOT branch, you need to arrive by 11 AM, if the branch closes for lunch, and at least 1 hour before closing time.

You will be tested on your knowledge of the following:

  • Rules of the road
  • Road signs, signals, and road markings
  • Safe driving techniques
  • The effects of drugs and alcohol on driving

The North Dakota Driving Exam

You are required to make an appointment with the ND DOT to complete your driving exam. You must provide a registered vehicle that must pass an equipment inspection BEFORE taking the test.

During your driving exam, the instructor will ask you to perform different maneuvers, such as:

  • Changing lanes
  • Using a roundabout
  • Passing a vehicle

Once you pass your exam, you will be issued your full North Dakota driver’s license. When you pass your exam, you will be issued your full, unrestricted ND driver’s license. Hooray!

Acceptable Identification Documents in North Dakota

In North Dakota, when you’re applying for a new driver’s license, you will need to provide documentation for different purposes. Examples of acceptable identification documents you can provide include the following:

  • Birth certificate
  • Passport
  • Armed forces ID card
  • Permanent resident card
  • Certificate of Naturalization
  • Foreign passport with a valid I-94 (the expiration date of the I-94 must be MORE than 2 months from the date you visit the office.)

Examples of true full-name verification documents can include the following:

  • A dissolution of marriage document that contains your legal name as a result of the court order
  • Adoption documents that contain your legal name as a result of the adoption
  • Marriage certificate
  • Certificate of registration document that verifies the formation of a domestic partnership
  • Name change documents that contain your legal name before and after

Examples of acceptable residency documents can include the following:

  • Insurance documents
  • North Dakota vehicle or vessel title or registration
  • Resident utility bills (these bills can also include cell phone bills)
  • A record of a financial institution (bank or credit card statement)

Obtaining a North Dakota Driver’s License Under the Age of 18

Getting an ND driver’s license for the first time is beyond exciting and certainly something to celebrate for any teenager. The North Dakota Department of Transportation (ND DOT) has a Minor Driver’s Licensing Law that applies to all teenage drivers who are under the age of 18.

New Teenage Residents of North Dakota

Welcome to the Peace Garden State! If you’re a teenager who has recently moved to North Dakota, you need to transfer your out-of-state driver’s license within 60 days of establishing residency in ND. You are considered an ND resident if you have lived in the state for 90 days consecutively and are NOT any of the following:

  • Non-resident student
  • Tourist
  • Non-resident Armed Forces member

To transfer your out-of-state driver’s license, you must visit your local ND DOT branch in person and do the following:

  • Provide your Social Security number and your:
    • Name
    • Legal U.S. presence
    • Date of birth
  • Present your out-of-state driver’s license (if you have it) – your DOT written and driving tests may be waived
  • Pay the $15 fee

You can contact your local ND DOT office for more information regarding transferring your out-of-state driver’s license.

The North Dakota GDL Program

The Graduated Driver’s License (GDL) program is designed to minimize the risks that are associated with new drivers. In North Dakota, all teenage drivers are required to complete certain milestones before obtaining their full ND driver’s license. Many of these specific milestones are age and experience related.

You must complete the following stages:

  • Learner’s permit
  • Minor’s restricted driver’s license/provisional
  • Full, unrestricted ND driver’s license

North Dakota Driving Age Requirements

The driving age requirements in ND are as follows:

  • Learner’s permit: 14 years old
  • Minor’s restricted driver’s license/provisional: 15 years old
  • Full, unrestricted driver’s license: 16 years old

North Dakota Learner’s Permit

The first step to receiving your initial ND driver’s license is to apply for your ND instruction permit, also referred to as a learner’s permit. You can apply for your learner’s permit when you are 14 years old.

Visit your local ND DOT branch and do the following:

  • Provide proof of your:
    • Legal name
    • Leal presence in the U.S.
    • Date of birth
  • Provide your Social Security number (SSN)
  • Pass the ND written test
  • Pass the vision test
  • Have your parent or legal guardian sign your driver’s application
  • Pay the $15 learner’s permit fee

Instruction Permit Restrictions and Next Steps

Your North Dakota learner’s permit allows you to operate a motor vehicle ONLY while you are being supervised by a licensed driver who is at least 18 years old and has 3 years of driving experience. Your supervising driver must be seated in the front passenger seat.

You must attain your learner’s permit for a specific time BEFORE you can continue to obtain your minor’s restricted driver’s license:

  • 14-15 years old: 1 year or until you are 16 years old, whichever comes first (must be at least 6 months)
  • Under 18 years old: 6 months or until you are 18 years old, whichever comes first

You will also need to complete a Driver’s Education (Driver’s Ed) course. If you are under 16 years old, you must ALSO complete at least 50 hours of driving practice.

Restricted Provisional License

To receive your North Dakota minor’s restricted driver’s license, you need to do/be the following:

  • Be at least 15 years old
  • Complete Driver’s Ed and 50 hours of practice driving (if you are younger than 16 years old)
  • Attain your instruction permit for:
    • 14-15 years old: 1 year or until you are 16 years old, whichever comes first (must be at least 6 months)
    • Under 18 years old: 6 months or until you are 18 years old, whichever comes first

When you’re ready to apply, you need to visit your local ND DOT branch and do the following:

  • Have your parent or legal guardian certify you have completed your 50 hours of practice driving
  • Pass the ND driving test
  • Pass the safe driving test
  • Pass the safe driving practices written test
  • Pay the $15 fee

North Dakota Minors Driver’s License/Provisional License Restrictions

Your ND provisional driver’s license allows you to operate a motor vehicle unsupervised EXCEPT between the hours of 9 PM and 5 AM unless you are driving for work, school, or religious purposes.

North Dakota Full Unrestricted Driver’s License

When you turn 16 years old, your provisional license automatically becomes unrestricted. You will be able to operate a motor vehicle unsupervised at any time of day or night.

Married, Divorced, or Name Change

If you have changed your name, and your name is different from the documents you provided, you are required to provide name change documents as proof of a legal name change to receive your new North Dakota driver’s license. You will also need to present name change documents if you are applying for a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card.

You will need to provide documents that establish your true full name, such as the following:

  • A name change document that contains the legal name of both before and after the name change
  • Adoption documents that contain the legal names as a result of the adoption
  • A marriage certificate
  • A certificate, declaration, or registration document that verifies the formation of a domestic partnership
  • A dissolution of marriage or domestic partnership document that contains the legal name as a result of the court action

Does the REAL ID Act Impact Resident of North Dakota?

The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005. This act sets the standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses. A REAL ID implements security processes that are designed to reduce identity fraud and ensure individuals with this identity document are who they say they are.

What Does a REAL ID Not Do?

Now that you know what a REAL ID can do, you may be wondering what it can’t do. REAL IDs do NOT create a federal database or federally controlled or issued identification document, this is what a U.S. passport does. Also, REAL IDs do not replace a passport that is used for international travel, such as visiting Canada and other counties.

In case you are wondering about the Radio Frequency (RFID) chip, REAL IDs do NOT have these chips. However, Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) do have an RFID chip. This chip provides information to a federal database. You don’t need to worry about Enhance Driver’s Licenses because they are NOT offered in North Dakota.

Is Obtaining a REAL ID Mandatory in North Dakota?

You are NOT required to obtain a REAL ID in North Dakota. If you have valid documents that are TSA-approved, you can use these documents to pass TSA checkpoints at airport terminals nationwide and visit a secure federal building or military installation at any time.

If you don’t plan on taking any domestic flights or visiting a secure federal facility or military base, you do not need to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card.

Be advised that you are NOT required to have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card to do any of the following:

  • Visit a hospital or receive life-saving services
  • Enter a federal facility that does NOT require ID (such as a post office)
  • Vote
  • Drive
  • Apply for or receive federal benefits (Social Security Administration (SSA), Veterans Affairs, etc.)

How Do You Prepare to Apply for a REAL ID?

Keep in mind that a North Dakota REAL ID will have a gold star in the upper-right corner. If you decide to obtain a REAL ID, you need to visit your local ND licensing office and provide the following:

  • Proof of your identity and legal presence, which can include the following:
    • U.S. birth certificate
    • U.S. passport
    • Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
    • Valid permit resident card
  • Proof of name change (if applicable), which can include a:
    • Marriage certificate or divorce decree
    • Adoption papers
    • Certified court order for the name change
  • Proof of social security, which can include your:
    • Social security card
    • W-2 or 1099 form
    • Paystub
  • Proof of North Dakota residency (2 documents are required), which can include your:
    • Tax statement
    • Paystub
    • Utility bill
    • School transcript issued within the past 6 months
  • Payment for all applicable fees

You can view a list of the documents that the ND DOT accepts by clicking here.

North Dakota REAL ID Fees

No additional fees are associated with a REAL ID vs. a standard ND driver’s license or identification card. If you want to upgrade to a REAL ID before you are required to renew your license or ID, you will need to pay the $8 fee for a duplicate license.

Applying for a Commercial Driver’s License in North Dakota

Being the operator of a big rig across the country or in North Dakota can be exciting and a way to make a living. Before you hit the road, you will need to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

You’ll need to complete the licensing process that’s overseen by the Department of Transportation (DOT), which follows the national guidelines that are set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Federal Training Requirements Update

Per the new federal entry-level driver training requirements that came into effect on February 7, 2022, the North Dakota Department of Transportation mandates new CDL applicants complete an entry-level driver training course through an authorized provider.

You are required to complete this training before you can apply for your initial commercial driver’s license, upgrade your existing CDL class, or apply for a HAZMAT, school bus, or passenger endorsement.

Who Can Get a North Dakota CDL?

To be eligible for an ND CDL, you are required to be/do the following:

  • Have a valid, non-commercial North Dakota driver’s license
  • Be fluent in English (reading, writing, and speaking)
  • Be at least:
    • 18 years old to driver intrastate (within North Dakota only)
    • 21 years old to drive interstate (crossing state lines)
  • Offer proof of the following:
    • Identity (birth certificate, U.S. passport, etc.)
    • Legal presence in the U.S. (Certificate of Naturalization, permanent resident card, etc.)
    • North Dakota residency (2 documents)
    • Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2 form, etc.)

If you attain a CDL from a different state, you must transfer it to North Dakota within 30 days of establishing residency.

Commercial Learner’s Permit in North Dakota

Before you can receive your CDL, you must have your commercial learner’s permit (CLP). This process can be complicated, so you may want to consider completing a CDL training course first. However, a CDL training course is NOT required by either the FMCSA or the ND DOT.

When you’re ready to start this process, you need to schedule an appointment at your local North Dakota Department of Transportation (ND DOT) office and do the following:

  • Take the proper identifying information
  • Have the appropriate medical forms with you
  • Complete a CDL application at the ND DOT office
  • Agree to a driving record check
  • Pass the ND eye exam
  • Pay the applicable ND testing and CLP fees

After your appointment, you must take the written exams for the CDL class you need and any endorsements you want to add to your CDL. If you don’t pass the exams the first time, you can retake the exam once per day.

Once you pass the test and complete the above-listed steps, you will be the owner of a commercial learner’s permit, and one step closer to your commercial driver’s license. Congratulations!

North Dakota CLP Restrictions

Now that you’re officially a CLP holder, there are specific rules you must follow, which is an essential step to obtaining your CDL. Per the FMCSA rules, you must stick to operating a commercial vehicle on public roads ONLY when you have your commercial learner’s permit. Also, you can only drive while you are accompanied by a full CDL holder who is licensed to operate the same class of vehicle you’re operating. You must wait at least 14 days after receiving your CLP to take the skills exam to earn your full CDL.

Getting Your Commercial Driver’s License in North Dakota

The only step you have left is to complete the ND skills test. Once at least 14 days have passed since you received your CLP, and you’re ready to complete the skills test, you need to schedule an appointment with your ND DOT office. Make sure you bring the following:

  • Your standard ND driver’s license
  • Your commercial learner’s permit
  • The $5 road test fee

Be sure to arrange to complete the exam in the same class of vehicle you intend on driving with your CLP. If not, a restriction will be placed on your CDL until you can retest to remove it. The skills exam consists of different parts, including:

  • Pre-trip inspection
  • Basic vehicle controls
  • On-road test

Once you’ve passed your skills exam, you will be an official CDL holder. Congratulations!

North Dakota CDL Fees

The ND DOT currently charges the following for CDLs and other services:

  • Knowledge test: $5 per attempt
  • Commercial learner’s permit: $15
    • Non-domiciled CLP: $20
  • Endorsements: $3 each
  • Road test: $5

North Dakota CDL Medical Requirements

To receive a CDL in North Dakota, you must first be deemed physically fit for the job. This process includes completing the following forms:

  • Self-Certification Affidavit (click here to download)
  • Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Form MCSA-5876) – This form must be completed by an FMCSA-approved physician

Depending on how you answer the questions on the self-certification form, you must take the paperwork with you to your first ND DOT appointment or send it to the ND DOT beforehand by doing the following:

Driver’s License Division

608 East Boulevard Avenue

Bismarck, ND 58505

For more information on self-certification, you can click here to access the FMCSA’s guide to CDL certification requirements.

Military CDL Testing Waivers

The FMCSA and the ND DOT partnered to make it easier for military veterans or current service members to earn a CDL by allowing them to waive the skills test.

To qualify for the testing waiver, you need to currently be enlisted in a position that requires you to operate a commercial vehicle or have left a similar military position within the last 12 months. To apply, you and your commanding officer must complete the Application for CDL Skills Test Waiver (Form SFN 60071).

Once you both have completed the testing waiver, you can mail the form to the DOT at

Driver’s License Division

608 East Boulevard Avenue

Bismarck, ND 58505

If you are approved, you will receive a letter from the ND DOT. You must take this letter with you when you are applying for your CLP. Eligible applicants must still take all written exams and pay all applicable fees.

Federal Self-Certification Requirements

You must self-certify the type of vehicle you’re operating with the ND DOT. You must self-certify one of the following driving categories:

  • Non-excepted interstate
  • Excepted interstate
  • Non-excepted intrastate
  • Excepted intrastate

Applying for a North Dakota Motorcycle License

North Dakota is known for its untouched natural beauty. If you want to enjoy this beauty and the fresh air on your motorcycle, you will need to obtain a motorcycle license.

New to North Dakota?

As a new resident of North Dakota, if you currently have an out-of-state motorcycle license, you may be allowed to transfer your credentials. You have 60 days to transfer your out-of-state license to ND after you establish residency in this state.

To transfer your out-of-state driver’s license, you need to visit your local ND DOT and do the following:

  • Provide proof of the following:
    • Identity
    • Social security number
    • North Dakota residency
  • Complete the required written and/or road tests (if required)
  • Pay the $15 licensing fee plus exam fees (if applicable)

Depending on the validity of your out-of-state motorcycle credentials, you may or may not be required to complete a written or road exam. You can contact your local ND DOT licensing office for more information.

North Dakota Motorcycle Licensing Eligibility

You must be at least 14 years old to apply for a motorcycle license. The process for earning your North Dakota motorcycle credentials is as follows:

  • Earn your motorcycle permit by passing the required written knowledge test for the following:
    • Standard Class D license (if you don’t already have a Class D permit or license)
    • Motorcycle license
  • Practice riding with your permit
  • Complete a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) motorcycle education course (this course is optional if you’re over 15 years old, but completing this course will waive your ND DOT road skills exam). However, motorcycle riders who are between 14 and 15 years old are REQUIRED to complete the course.
  • Pass the on-cycle skills exam (if you did NOT complete a safety course)
  • Earn your North Dakota motorcycle license

Motorcycle Permits in North Dakota

The first step to obtaining your motorcycle license in ND is earning your motorcycle permit. You can visit your local ND DOT driver’s license branch and do the following:

  • Present proof of your:
    • Identity
    • Social Security Number
    • North Dakota residency
  • If you’re between 14 and 15 years old, you must provide a Certificate of Enrollment or completion of an MSF education course.
  • Pass the following tests:
    • Vision screening
    • Written knowledge exams for the following:
      • Standard Class D license (if you don’t already have a Class D permit or license)
      • Class M motorcycle license
  • Pay the applicable motorcycle permit and exam fees

Once you complete these steps, you will receive your ND motorcycle permit. Congratulations!

North Dakota Motorcycle Permit Restrictions

With your ND motorcycle permit, you are probably excited to get out on the open road and ride! However, you must keep the following restrictions in mind while riding with your motorcycle permit:

  • All motorcycle permit holders must do the following:
    • Must wear a helmet
    • Are prohibited from transporting passengers
    • May only practice while it’s light outside
  • Permit holders between 14 and 15 years old:
    • May ONLY ride motorcycles equipped with 510 ccs or lower
    • Must hold a permit for at least 2 months before applying for a motorcycle license

Obtaining Your North Dakota Motorcycle License

Before applying for your ND motorcycle license, you must first pass a behind-the-wheel road skills exam or completed a motorcycle safety course, which will waive the road exam taken through the ND DOT.

You can schedule a motorcycle road test online with the ND DOT or by calling (855) 633-6835. When you’re ready to apply, you can visit your local ND DOT driver’s license sites and provide your MSF course Certificate of Completion or written proof that you passed the ND DOT motorcycle road test.

You need to provide proof of the following:

  • Identity
  • North Dakota residency
  • Social Security Number
  • Pay the $15 motorcycle license fee

Be advised that this step is only for applicants who are 14 and 15 years old.

North Dakota Motorcycle Education

Motorcycle license applicants who are between 14 and 15 years old must complete an ND MSF course. However, regardless of age, after completing an MSF course, you will be eligible to waive the ND DOT motorcycle road skills test.

In association with the MSF, the North Dakota Motorcycle Safety Program offers rider courses for all skill levels. New riders who are enrolling in the Basic Rider Course will learn the following valuable skills:

  • Stopping
  • Turning smoothly
  • Dealing with emergencies
  • Determining the safest route for riding
  • Sharing the road and communicating with other drivers

North Dakota Motorcycle Licenses Fees

The fees that are associated with obtaining your North Dakota motorcycle license are as follows:

  • Written knowledge test: $5 per test
  • Motorcycle permit:
    • With a Class D permit or license: $8
    • Without a Class D permit or license: $15
  • On-road exam: $5
  • Motorcycle license: $15

North Dakota DOT Locations

There are different North Dakota DOT locations throughout this state. Although we won’t list them all, we will list a handful of different DOT locations in ND to help you get started.

North Dakota Department of Transportation – Bismarck Branch
218 Airport Rd
Bismarck, ND 58504
(701) 328-6950
Monday – Friday (8 AM – 5 PM)
Saturday and Sunday (Closed)

North Dakota Department of Transportation – Glen Ullin Branch
4110 County Rd 88
Glen Ullin, ND 58631
(701) 348-3663
Call for business hours

North Dakota Department of Transportation – Dickinson Branch
1700 3rd Ave W Ste 101
Dickinson, ND 58601
(701) 227-6500
Call for business hours

North Dakota Department of Transportation – Carrington Branch
6739 Highway 200
Carrington, ND 58421
(701) 652-3981
Call for business hours

You did it! You have everything you need to obtain your North Dakota driver’s, commercial, and motorcycle licenses.

Leave a Reply