The North Dakota license process has five steps: pass the written test, pass the driving test, bring required documents to the DMV, pay the fee, and take your photo

North Dakota issues driver's licenses through the Department of Transportation. You start by taking a written knowledge test at any DMV office, then schedule a behind-the-wheel driving test. Once you pass both, you bring your documents to the DMV, pay the fee (currently $80 for an eight-year license), and have your photo taken. The whole process typically takes two to four weeks from start to finish, though the written test can happen on your first visit.

You do not need to hold a learner's permit first in North Dakota if you are 18 or older, though getting one is an option. If you are under 18, you must hold a learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test. The written test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices specific to North Dakota conditions.

Key Takeaways

  • You must pass the written test before scheduling the driving test, and both must be completed before you can get your license at the DMV.
  • North Dakota requires a Social Security number, proof of identity, and proof of North Dakota residency — a utility bill or lease counts for residency.
  • The written test costs $10 and the license itself costs $80 for eight years; you pay both at the DMV office.
  • If you are under 18, you must hold a learner's permit for six months before taking the driving test, but adults 18 and older can skip the permit stage.
  • The driving test takes about 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, parking, and following traffic laws on public roads.

Documents you need to bring to the DMV

Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. If you do not have a card, a W-2 form, tax return, or 1099 will work. You also need a photo ID — a passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license all count. If your ID is expired, North Dakota will still accept it as long as it shows your name and photo clearly.

For proof of North Dakota residency, bring a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and current address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement will work. If you live with someone else, a notarized letter from the homeowner or landlord stating you live there is acceptable. You cannot use a cell phone bill or credit card statement for residency proof.

If your name has changed since your ID was issued — through marriage, divorce, or court order — bring the document that shows the change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order is required. Without it, your license will be issued under your current legal name, but the DMV will flag the mismatch.

How to pass the written knowledge test

The written test has 25 questions and you must answer at least 20 correctly to pass. Questions cover North Dakota traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and what to do in bad weather. The test is multiple choice and you have 30 minutes to complete it. You can take the test at any DMV office without an appointment, though calling ahead to confirm hours is a good idea.

North Dakota provides a free study guide on the Department of Transportation website. The guide covers everything on the test and is organized by topic — road signs, right-of-way, speed limits, parking, and winter driving. Many people study the guide for one to two weeks before taking the test. You can retake the test if you fail, but you must wait one day before trying again and pay the $10 fee each time.

The test is offered in English only. If you need the test in another language, contact your local DMV office at least two weeks in advance to arrange an interpreter.

Scheduling and taking the driving test

After you pass the written test, the DMV will give you a form to schedule your driving test. You can schedule online through the North Dakota Department of Transportation website, by phone, or in person at any DMV office. Tests are typically available within two to four weeks, though wait times vary by location and season. Bismarck and Fargo offices tend to have longer waits than rural offices.

For the driving test, bring your learner's permit (if you have one), proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be tested in. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition — the examiner will check the brakes, lights, wipers, and horn before you start. You must wear a seatbelt and the examiner will sit in the passenger seat. The test lasts about 30 minutes and covers starting the vehicle, basic turns, lane changes, parking, and following traffic laws.

Common reasons people fail the driving test include failing to signal, not checking mirrors, rolling through stop signs, and poor parking. If you fail, you can retake the test after waiting one day. There is no fee for retakes, but you do need to schedule another appointment.

What happens after you pass both tests

Once you pass the driving test, the examiner will tell you to go to the DMV office to complete your license. Bring all your documents — Social Security proof, photo ID, residency proof, and any name-change documents. You will pay the $80 license fee at this time. The DMV will take your photo and issue your license on the spot or within a few days, depending on the office.

Your North Dakota driver's license is valid for eight years. It will expire on your birthday in the year it is due. You can renew it by mail, online, or in person starting 90 days before it expires. If you move out of state, your license remains valid until it expires, but you should get a new state's license within the timeframe that state requires.

Fees and payment methods

The written test costs $10. The driving test is free. The driver's license itself costs $80 for an eight-year license. Some DMV offices accept cash, check, and debit or credit card, but payment methods vary by location — call ahead to confirm what your local office takes. If you need to replace a lost or damaged license, that costs $20.

If you are a military member or veteran, North Dakota offers a reduced fee for licenses. Contact your local DMV office for details on military discounts.

Special situations: under 18, name changes, and address updates

If you are under 18, you must hold a learner's permit for at least six months before taking the driving test. To get a learner's permit, pass the written test and bring your documents to the DMV. The permit costs $10 and is valid for one year. While you hold a permit, you can only drive with a licensed adult 21 or older in the vehicle, and you cannot drive between midnight and 4 a.m.

If your name has changed since you last had an ID, bring the document proving the change — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will issue your license under your new legal name. If you change your address after you get your license, you can update it by mail, online, or in person at the DMV. Address changes are free.

If you are a non-citizen, you can get a standard driver's license if you have a valid visa or work permit. Bring your passport and visa or work permit along with your other documents. If you are undocumented, North Dakota does not issue driver's licenses to people without legal immigration status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test and driving test on the same day?

No. You must pass the written test first, then schedule the driving test for a later date. Most people schedule the driving test within one to three weeks after passing the written test. The DMV will give you the scheduling form when ready after you pass the written test.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake it after waiting one day. There is no fee for retakes. The examiner will tell you what you did wrong, and you can practice those skills before your next attempt. Most people pass on the second or third try.

Do I need a learner's permit if I am 18 or older?

No. Adults 18 and older can take the written and driving tests without holding a permit first. If you are under 18, you must hold a permit for at least six months before taking the driving test.

What if my Social Security card is lost?

Bring another document with your Social Security number — a W-2, tax return, or 1099. If you do not have any of these, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card before going to the DMV.

How long is my North Dakota driver's license valid?

Eight years. It expires on your birthday in the year it is due. You can renew it by mail, online, or in person starting 90 days before it expires. Renewal is simpler than getting your first license and does not require another driving test.