Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

Am I required to take a motorcycle training course?
North Dakota motorcycle license applicants under the age of 16 are required to take a motorcycle training course. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic Rider Course consists of three to four hours of classroom training and eight hours of on the road experience. A motorcycle and helmet is provided.

Drivers, who are 14 or 15 years old, can apply for a motorcycle license after having completed the course or while still enrolled in the course. Also, completion of the motorcycle training course within six years of application of a motorcycle license may waive the motorcycle skills test for the North Dakota DMV.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in North Dakota

Am I required to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle?
In the state of North Dakota motorcycle license holders and passengers under the age of 18 must wear a helmet at all times. If an operator under the age of 18 is carrying any passengers on their motorcycle, then they too are required to wear a helmet, no matter their age.

The North Dakota Department of Transportation encourages all motorcycle riders to consider wearing a safety helmet when operating a motorcycle. Wearing a motorcycle helmet greatly reduces the risk of head injury in collisions involving motorcycles.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in North Dakota

Can I renew my commercial drivers license online?
No, you may not renew your North Dakota commercial drivers license online. The ND DMV only allows drivers torenew a CDL license in person at a North Dakota Department of Transportation, Driver License office site. A renewal reminder notice is mailed to your address, two months prior to the expiration of your CDL license. You may apply forCDL license renewal up to 10 months before it expires without loosing any time on your license.

For more information: North Dakota Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

Can I take the DMV written test online?
No, the ND DMV does not allow for drivers to take the ND DMV learners permit test online at this time. You must take the test in person at any one of ND DMV locations with the exception of the Crosby location. The fee to take the learners permit test is $5 and applicants may only take one test per day. The information needed to successfully complete the Rules of the Road knowledge test is contained in the Noncommercial Driver s License Manual. A copy of the manual is available online at the North Dakota Department of Transportation website. Fees are subject to change.

For more Iinformation: Written Test in North Dakota

Can I use my state CDL anywhere in the United States?
If you have an interstate CDL license, then you may use it to operate a commercial vehicle across state lines and or engage in interstate commercial driving. Drivers must be a least 21 years old to qualify for an interstate CDL license.

As an interstate CDL license holder, you can travel within the United States and even internationally. For more information on North Dakota CDL license interstate driving restrictions, contact the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Bismark, ND office at (701) 250-4346.

For more information: North Dakota Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

Do I need a motorcycle license to ride a scooter or moped?
No, you do not require a motorcycle license to ride a moped in the state of North Dakota. To ride a moped, you only need to have a valid learners permit or driver’s license from any class and be at least 14 years old. A motor bicycle is defined as an automatic vehicle with two or three wheels that are no wider than 32 inches and a motor that does not exceed 30 mph. The motor bicycle must be equipped with foot pedals or foot rests and a maximum two brake horsepower.

For more information: Motorcycle License Information in North Dakota

Do I need to take a drivers ed course?
North Dakota learners permit holders who are 14 or 15 years old, must complete a formal drivers education course as one of the steps to get their driver s license. Those 16 and older do not have to take a drivers ed. A classroom based version of the course is also available at participating public schools. There must also be a behind-the wheel component to satisfy the requirements of a complete driver s education course.

For more information: Beginner Drivers in North Dakota

How can I get a veteran designation on my ID card?
Qualified military veterans may receive a ‘V designation on the front of their North Dakota ID card. The North Dakota DMV accepts the following as proof of honorable discharge from the military:
  • Form DD-214
  • DD Form 2 (Retired)
  • DD Form 2A (Reserve Retired)

Veterans may apply at any North Dakota DMV location. They are responsible for paying for a duplicate ID card fee, if applicable.

For more information: How to Apply for a North Dokato ID Card

How do I apply for a commercial drivers license?
To apply for a North Dakota commercial drivers license, you must appear in person at a ND DMV location and meet the following requirements:
  • Be a noncommercial driver’s license holder
  • Be 21 years old for interstate commerce or ages 18-20 to apply for driving within the state of North Dakota
  • Be literate in the English language
  • Meet all medical requirements
  • Pass all applicable commercial knowledge tests
  • Pass a road test

Upon application, you must present your current Class D driver’s license, proof of your identity and legal presence in the United States, as well as proof of your North Dakota residence address. Applicants from out of state must also present their commercial driver’s license from their previous state.

For more information: North Dakota Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

How do I apply for a learner’s permit?
To apply for a North Dakota learners permit, you must be a North Dakota resident and apply in person at a North Dakota Driver s License Site. To qualify for a learner s permit you must:
  • Complete a drivers permit application.
  • Provide your Social Security Number.
  • Pass a knowledge test.
  • Pass a vison screening.

Applicants under 18 years old require a parent or legal guardian signature of permission and financial liability to get a learner s permit.

For more information: Beginner Drivers in North Dakota

How do I apply for a motorcycle license?
To receive amotorcycle license in the state of North Dakota, you must apply in person at a North Dakota Driver s License site and meet the following qualifications:
  • Complete an application at the ND DMV
  • Provide proof of identity and legal presence in the United States
  • Provide Social Security Number
  • Provide North Dakota address
  • Must have a learner’s permit or driver’s license or have completed the rules of the road knowledge test
  • Pass the motorcycle knowledge and road skills tests
  • Pass a vision test

Applicants under the age of 16, must be enrolled in a Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic Rider Course to apply for a ND motorcycle license.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in North Dakota

How do I get a duplicate ID card?
North Dakota identification cards that havebeen lost, stolen, or destroyed, may be replaced by applying for a duplicate ID card. To get a replacement ID card, you may have to appear in person at a North Dakota Department of Transportation Driver License office location and provide the following documents:
  • Proof of identity
  • Proof of legal presence in the United States
  • Proof of your Social Security Number
  • Proof of North Dakota residence address

The fee for an ID card replacement is $8. Fees are subject to change.

For more information: Duplicate North Dakota ID Cards

How do I renew my driving permit?
The North Dakota DOT accepts applications forlearners permit renewals. To renew a ND learners permit, you can book an appointment to visit a ND Driver License site. Applicants may renew your learners permit up to 10 months prior to expiration. All license renewal applicants must pass a vision screening. To learn more on drivers permit renewal, contact the North Dakota Department of Transportation Driver License division at 701-328-2600.

For more information: Beginner Drivers in North Dakota

How do I renew my ID card?
To renew North Dakota identificationcard, you will have to appear in person at a North Dakota Department of Transportation Driver License office location and bring proof of your current North Dakota residence address as well as proof of your legal presence in the United States.

Contact the North Dakota Department of Transportation at 701-328-2600 for more information on how to renew your ID card.

How do I renew my medical report for a commercial license?
Drivers must renew their medical report for a North Dakota commercial driver’s license, every 24 months or sooner, if deemed necessary. Some classes of drivers are required to submit their medical report to the North Dakota Department of Transportation, Driver License Division.

All interstate commercial driverssubject to 49 CFR part 391 federal regulations, are required to submit a copy of their medical report. A copy of the medical certificate should be mailed, emailed, or faxed, at least 10 days prior to application for a new CDL or CDL renewal. You may not bring a copy of your medical report to a DMV location.

For more information: North Dakota Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

How do I renew my motorcycle license?
To renew your North Dakota motorcycle license, you must apply in person at a North Dakota Department of Transportation Driver License site. For motorcycle license renewal application you will need your current motorcycle license. The ND DMV makes it easy to handle your motorcycle license renewal by offering an online scheduling system for your convenience. Once you book online, a confirmation number will be emailed to you.Bring your confirmation number with you to your license renewal appointment. Also, come prepared to take a vision test torenew motorcycle license.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in North Dakota

How does a military member obtain a motorcycle license?
A military member may get a North Dakota motorcycle license by appearing in person at a ND DMV location to apply. To do so, fill out the required application and provide proof of identity, Social Security Number, and North Dakota residence address.

Your military ID can be used as proof of identity and legal presence in the United States. A written exam and motorcycle skills test must be passed to get a motorcycle license. Contact the North Dakota Department of Transportation at 701-328-2600, for information on any waivers available on the motorcycle road test for members of the military.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in North Dakota

How long do I need my learners permit before I can get my drivers license?
How long you will need to hold your learners permit before you get your driver s license depends on your age at the time you get your learners permit:
  • 14 and 15 years old: One year
  • 16 and 17 years old: Six months
  • 18 and older: Six months

All learner s permit holders must be accompanied by a supervising driver for the duration of their learner s permit.

For more information: Beginner Drivers in North Dakota

How long will it take to get my new ID card?
The length of time it will take to get an ID card depends on many factors including what North Dakota Department of Transportation Driver s License site you used and the wait time of that location on the particular day you decide to apply for ID card.

Residents may receive their ID cardupon applicationat the ND DMV or via mail. Be sure that you provide the ND DMV with an updated address when applying for an ID card to help ensure that your card arrives without delay. For more information on the length of time it may take to get your ID card Contact the North Dakota Department of Transportation at 701-328-2600.

For more information: ID Cards in North Dakota

How often do I need to renew my CDL license?
Your North Dakota CDL license is valid for up to four years. To renew your CDL license, you must apply in person at a ND DMV location. You can schedule an appointment online to renew CDL license. Upon arrival, bring your current CDL license and be prepared to pay the $15 renewal fee. Each endorsement is $3 per endorsement. If you have a HAZMAT endorsement, it too expires every four years. Applicants must pass a background check to renew aHAZMAT endorsement.

For more information: North Dakota Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

If I’m out of state and lost my ID, how can I get a new one?
If you lose your ND ID card, you may be eligible to apply for anID card replacementwhile you are out of state. Contact the North Dakota Department of Transportation central office at 701-328-4353 for more information on the process of applying for a duplicate ID card.

For moe information: Replacing a North Dakota ID Card

Is there a minimum age I have to be to get a commercial drivers license?
The minimum age to get a ND commercial drivers license is 18 years old. A Class A, B, or C driver’s license may be issued to drivers 16 years old for certain farming purposes only. Drivers must be at least 21 years old to participate in interstate commercial driving and have a valid Class D driver’s license to get your commercial drivers license in the state of North Dakota.

For more information: North Dakota Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the age restrictions to ride a motorcycle?
To get a motorcycle license, you must hold a motorcycle permit for at least two months. In North Dakota, the age restrictions to ride a motorcycle are as follows:
  • Riders who are 14 and 15 years old:
    • Can only drive during daylight hours.
    • Cannot operate a motorcycle more than 250CC.
    • Cannot carry passengers.

On a motorcycle license, riders who are 14 or 15 years of age are restricted to operating motorcycles under 250CC.

  • Riders who are 16 and 17 years old:
    • Can only drive during daylight hours.
    • Cannot carry passengers.

As with all minors under the age of 18, on a motorcycle driving license, 16 and 17 year olds must wear a helmet to operate a motorcycle. Motorcycle permit holders age 18 and over are also restricted to daylight driving and may not carry any passengers.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in North Dakota

What are the available commercial license endorsements?
There are different CDL endorsements available to apply for at the North Dakota Department of Transportation, including:
  • Hazardous Material- H
  • Tank Vehicle- N
  • Passenger Bus- P
  • Doubles or Triples- T
  • School Bus- S

Commercial drivers are restricted from operating vehicles with air brake systems, unless they pass air brake written and skills tests.

For more information: North Dakota Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the fees associated with an ID card?
If you already have a North Dakota driver s license then it costs $8 to get a new ID cardor an ID card renewal. If you do not have a driver s license then there is no fee to get an ID card or to apply for an ID card renewal. All applicants who wish to replace a lost, stolen, or destroyed ID card must pay the $8 ID card replacement fee. Fees are subject to change. North Dakota ID cards expire on your date of birth on the sixth year after it was issued.

For more information: How to Apply for a North Dakota Identification Card

What are the learners permit restrictions during my first year?
Restrictions on your North Dakota learners permit vary depending on your age. The restrictions are as follows:
  • Drivers who are 14 and 15 years old:
    • Must have a supervising driver in the vehicle.
    • Must only operate a vehicle owned by a family member.
    • Must drive in daylight hours, unless supervising driver is in the front seat or is driving to school, work, farm, or religious activity.
  • Drivers who are 16 and 17 years old:
    • Must have a supervising driver in the vehicle.

All drivers under the age of 18 may not use an electronic communication device or cell phone while operating a motor vehicle.

For more information: Beginner Drivers in North Dakota

What are the medical certifications required to obtain a CDL?
To get a North Dakota CDL license, you must meet federal medical certifications. Commercial drivers license holders must renew their medial certificate every two years. Some of the ailments that deem you medically unfit to get a CDL license are:
  • Vision worse than 20/40
  • Hearing impairment
  • Epilepsy
  • Diabetes requiring insulin
  • Heart condition
  • Seizure disorder requiring medication
  • Limb loss or impairment

Drivers applying for a CDLmust be medically certified by a licensed health care provider in the United States.

For more information: North Dakota Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the penalties for getting a traffic ticket with a driver’s permit?
North Dakota has a program for minors who get too many points on their driving record. The Minor Driver s License Recertification program is for driver under the age of 18 who have accumulated six or more points on their driving record. These minors may to go to traffic school to reinstate their driving privileges after having lost them due to alcohol and/or drug violations in involving a motor vehicle.

FOr more information: Traffic Violations in North Dakota.

What are the requirements to operate a three-wheel motorcycle?
Some states require a separate three-wheel motorcycle endorsement to ride a three-wheel motorcycle. The state of North Dakota provides supplemental information in the Motorcycle Operator Manual. Three-wheel motorcycle riders should familiarize themselves with the information in this manual that pertains to traditional 2-wheel motorcycles as well. The information provided on operating a motorcycle in traffic is of particular value to any motorcycle operator. Contact the North Dakota Department of Transportation at 701-328-2600 for more information regarding three-wheel motorcycle requirements.
What documents do I need to get a learner’s permit?
To get alearners permit in North Dakota, you will need to apply in person at a North Dakota License Site and bring with you the following documentation:
  • One proof of name, date of birth, and legal presence in the United States:
    • U.S. birth certificate
    • U.S. passport
    • Certificate of Naturalization
  • One proof of Social Security Number:
    • Social Security Card
    • W-2 form
  • Two proofs of North Dakota residence:
    • Government issued tax form
    • Bank statement
    • Utility bill

Your Social Security Number will not be used as your learner s permit ID number.

For more information: Beginner Drivers in North Dakota

What documents do I need to get a motorcycle license?
Getting a motorcycle license requires that you appear in person at a ND DMV office and fill out an application. You will also need to provide the following documentation:
  • One proof of name, date of birth, and legal presence in the United States:
    • U.S. birth certificate
    • U.S. passport
    • Certificate of Naturalization
  • One proof of Social Security Number:
    • Social Security Card
    • W-2 form
  • Two proofs of North Dakota residence:
    • Government issued tax form
    • Bank statement
    • Utility bill

If you are under 16, you must show proof of your enrollment in the Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic Rider Course in the form of a confirmation sheet or a completion card.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in North Dakota

What exams do I need to pass to get a motorcycle license?
To get your motorcycle license in the state of North Dakota, you will need to pass the following exams:
  • Class M motorcycle licenseknowledge test
  • Motorcycle on-road test
  • Noncommercial driver s license written test (only if you do not yet have a permit or driver s license)
  • Vision test

Applicants under the age of 16 must be enrolled in a Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic Rider Course to apply for a ND motorcycle license.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in North Dakota

What happens to my commercial driver license if I am convicted of a DUI?
The state of North Dakota has stringent rules for commercial drivers caught driving under the influence or who refuse to submit to a chemical test. It is against the law to operate a commercial motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .04 percent or more. The first conviction will result a suspended CDL for one year. If you are convicted of a second DUI, you will be disqualified for life from operating a commercial vehicle.

For more information: North Dakota Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What is an ID card?
An ID card is a non-driver identification card that may be issued to any North Dakota resident, regardless of age. Residents who have reached the age of 14 may designate if they would like to be an organ donor on their state ID card.

To apply for a ND ID card, you must appear in person at a North Dakota Department of Transportation Driver s License site and provide proof of your name, date of birth, legal presence in the United States, social security number, and proof of your North Dakota residence address to get a ND ID card.

For more information: How to Apply for a North Dakota Identification Card

What is the passing score for a written test?
To get a passing score on the required written drivers test for a ND leaners permit, you will have to study the Noncommercial Driver s License Manual. The manual contains all the information needed to successfully pass the Rules of the Road knowledge test giving by the North Dakota Department of Transpiration. A hard copy of the manual is available at any ND Driver s License site.

For more information: Beginner Drivers in North Dakota

What test do I need to take for my learners permit?
To get your North Dakota learners permit, you will have to take a few tests including:
  • Rules of the road knowledge test
  • Vision test

The Noncommercial Driver s License Manual contains all the information needed to pass the knowledge test to get your learner s permit. The test is available in 11 different languages including American Sign Language.

For more information: Beginner Drivers in North Dakota

What tests do I have to take to obtain a CDL?
To get North Dakota CDL license, applicants must take a general knowledge test as well as the CDL skills test. In addition, you must also take a written test for each any endorsement you re applying for. The following are the available endorsement tests:
  • Airbrakes test
  • Combination vehicles test
  • Doubles/Triples test
  • Hazardous Materials test
  • Passenger Transport test
  • School bus test
  • Tanker test

After you’ve passed the required written tests, you must take a CDL skills test. The skills test will consist of pre-trip vehicle inspection, basic vehicle control, and road test components.

For more information: North Dakota Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

When does my ID card expire?
Your North Dakota ID card expires on your date of birth, the sixth year after it was issued. Any North Dakota resident, regardless of age, is eligible to apply for a non-driver identification card. If you do not hold a driver s license, then it is free to renew your ND ID card. If you do have a driver s license, then it is $8 to renew your ID card. Fees are subject to change.
Where can I obtain an ID card?
You can get a North Dakota ID card at any North Dakota Department of Transportation Driver s License office site. Any ND resident may apply for an ID card. No fee is charged for applicants obtaining an ID card who do not have a driver s license. If you do have a driver s license, then the fee for an ID card is $8. Fees are subject to change. Contact the North Dakota Department of Transportation at 701-328-2600 for more information on the closest DMV location to you.

For more information: How to Apply for a North Dakota Identification Card

Who can sign for my permit or license if I am under 18?
If you are under 18 years old, you must have a parent or legal guardian sign for you to get a learner s permit. The adult is signing permission and financial liability for the minor. Parent involvement is just as important after the minor receives their driving permit. A 14 or 15 year old must have 50 hours of supervised driving in a vehicle owned by a parent or other close family member such as an aunt, uncle, or sibling.

For more information: Lerner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in North Dakota