How to Reinstate Your Driver's License in North Dakota

What You Need to Do to Reinstate Your License in North Dakota

To reinstate your North Dakota driver's license, you must contact the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) Driver's License Division, pay a reinstatement fee, and meet any conditions tied to why your license was suspended or revoked. The process differs depending on whether your license was suspended for unpaid traffic fines, DUI-related offenses, medical reasons, or other violations. North Dakota does not reinstate licenses automatically—you must take action and complete all requirements before you can legally drive again.

The reinstatement fee in North Dakota is $20 for most suspensions, though some DUI-related reinstatements carry additional fees or requirements. You will need to provide proof that you have resolved the underlying issue—whether that means paying court-ordered fines, completing a substance abuse program, or obtaining medical clearance. The NDDOT Driver's License Division processes reinstatement requests by mail, in person, or online through their portal, depending on the reason for suspension.

Key Takeaways

Contact the NDDOT Driver's License Division to find out the specific reason your license was suspended and what you must do to resolve it.
The reinstatement fee is $20 for most suspensions, but DUI-related reinstatements may require additional fees, substance abuse program completion, or an ignition interlock device.
You must provide proof that you have paid all court-ordered fines, completed required programs, or resolved the medical condition that caused the suspension.
Reinstatement can be processed by mail, in person at a NDDOT office, or online through the state's driver services portal if your suspension reason qualifies.

Reasons Your License Was Suspended in North Dakota

North Dakota suspends driver's licenses for several specific reasons, and the reinstatement process depends on which one applies to you. The most common reasons are unpaid traffic fines or court costs, DUI or DWI convictions, failure to maintain auto insurance, medical conditions that affect driving ability, and accumulation of too many points on your driving record.

If your suspension is due to unpaid fines or court costs, you must pay the full amount owed to the court that issued the citation. If it is tied to a DUI or DWI, you will need to complete a substance abuse assessment and any recommended treatment, install an ignition interlock device if ordered by the court, and pay reinstatement fees that may exceed the standard $20. If your license was suspended for medical reasons, you will need a physician's statement confirming you are safe to drive. Contact the NDDOT Driver's License Division at 701-328-2725 to confirm the exact reason and what documentation you need.

Steps to Reinstate Your License

The reinstatement process in North Dakota follows a clear sequence. First, contact the NDDOT Driver's License Division by phone at 701-328-2725 or visit their office in Bismarck to learn the specific reason for your suspension and what you must complete. Ask for a written list of requirements so you have a record of what is needed.

Second, resolve the underlying issue. If fines are owed, pay them to the court listed on your suspension notice. If a substance abuse program is required, enroll and complete it—the program provider will send proof of completion to the NDDOT. If an ignition interlock device is ordered, have it installed by a certified vendor and provide the NDDOT with proof of installation. If medical clearance is needed, obtain a signed statement from your physician and submit it to the NDDOT.

Third, submit your reinstatement request and fee. You can do this by mail to the NDDOT Driver's License Division, 608 East Boulevard Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58505; in person at a NDDOT office; or online through the state's driver services portal if your suspension reason qualifies for online processing. Include the $20 reinstatement fee (check or money order by mail; cash, check, or card in person). The NDDOT will review your submission and notify you by mail when your license is reinstated.

DUI and DWI Reinstatement Requirements

Reinstatement after a DUI or DWI conviction in North Dakota involves more steps than a standard suspension. You must complete a substance abuse assessment conducted by a licensed evaluator, follow any treatment recommendations from that assessment, and pay all court-ordered fines and fees. The court may also order installation of an ignition interlock device, which prevents your vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected on your breath.

If an ignition interlock device is required, you must have it installed by a certified vendor before you can reinstate your license. The device costs between $100 and $200 to install and $50 to $100 per month to maintain. You will need to provide the NDDOT with proof of installation and a maintenance agreement showing you are keeping the device serviced. The length of time you must use the device depends on your conviction—typically 12 months for a first offense, longer for subsequent offenses. Once the required period ends, you can request removal, but you must provide proof to the NDDOT.

The reinstatement fee for a DUI or DWI is $20, but you may also owe court costs, substance abuse program fees, and ignition interlock costs. Ask the court that handled your case for a complete list of all fees and fines you must pay before the NDDOT will process your reinstatement.

Reinstatement for Unpaid Fines or Court Costs

If your license was suspended because of unpaid traffic fines or court costs, you must pay the full amount owed before the NDDOT will reinstate your license. Contact the court listed on your suspension notice to confirm the exact amount due, including any late fees or collection costs that may have been added.

You can pay the court directly by phone, mail, or in person—ask the court clerk which methods they accept. Once you have paid in full, request a receipt or confirmation letter from the court showing the debt is satisfied. Send this proof to the NDDOT Driver's License Division along with your reinstatement request and the $20 reinstatement fee. The NDDOT will verify payment with the court before processing your reinstatement.

Medical Suspension Reinstatement

If your license was suspended for medical reasons—such as a seizure disorder, vision loss, or a condition affecting your ability to control a vehicle—you must obtain medical clearance before reinstatement. The NDDOT will have notified you of the specific medical concern when your license was suspended.

Contact your physician or the specialist who treats your condition and explain that you need a statement confirming you are medically safe to drive. The NDDOT may provide a specific form for the physician to complete, or you may submit a letter from the physician on their letterhead. The statement must address the specific condition that caused the suspension and confirm that it is now controlled or resolved. Submit this medical clearance to the NDDOT along with your reinstatement request and the $20 fee. The NDDOT may request an updated medical evaluation or a road test before approving reinstatement.

Where to Submit Your Reinstatement Request

North Dakota offers three ways to submit a reinstatement request: by mail, in person, or online. By mail, send your completed reinstatement form, proof that you have met all requirements, and your $20 fee to the NDDOT Driver's License Division, 608 East Boulevard Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58505. Processing by mail typically takes 5 to 10 business days after the NDDOT receives your request.

In person, visit any NDDOT Driver's License office. The main office is in Bismarck, but satellite offices are located in Fargo, Grand Forks, Minot, and Williston. Bring your suspension notice, proof of meeting all requirements, and payment. In-person processing is usually faster—you may receive temporary driving privileges while your reinstatement is being finalized. Online reinstatement is available through the NDDOT's driver services portal for certain suspension types; check the website to see if your situation qualifies. You will need your driver's license number and date of birth to log in.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to reinstate my license in North Dakota?

By mail, reinstatement typically takes 5 to 10 business days after the NDDOT receives your request. In person at a NDDOT office, you may receive temporary driving privileges on the same day. Online processing, where available, is usually the fastest option. The timeline depends on how quickly you submit all required documentation and proof that you have met the suspension conditions.

Can I drive while my reinstatement request is being processed?

No, you cannot legally drive while your license is suspended, even if you have submitted a reinstatement request. If you explore in person at a NDDOT office, you may be issued temporary driving privileges while your reinstatement is finalized. Ask the office staff whether temporary privileges are available for your situation.

What if I cannot afford to pay all my fines at once?

Contact the court that issued your fines and ask about a payment plan. Many courts allow you to pay fines in installments. Once you have set up a payment plan, ask the court to notify the NDDOT that you are in compliance with the plan. Some courts will allow the NDDOT to reinstate your license while you are making payments, though this varies by jurisdiction.

Do I need to take a written test or road test to reinstate my license?

For most suspensions, you do not need to retake a written or road test. However, if your suspension was due to a medical condition, the NDDOT may require a road test or updated medical evaluation before reinstatement. If your suspension was due to accumulation of points, you may be required to complete a defensive driving course. Ask the NDDOT what is required for your specific situation.

What happens if I drive with a suspended license?

Driving with a suspended license in North Dakota is a criminal offense. You can be arrested, fined up to $1,000, and face jail time. Your license suspension will be extended, and you may face additional penalties. Do not drive until your license is officially reinstated by the NDDOT.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.