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North Dakota · Permit test

How to get an ND driver's license

You get an ND driver's license in three steps: pass the knowledge test for a permit, hold the permit for the time your age requires, then pass the road test or have it waived. A North Dakota license costs $15. At 15 you can get a restricted license, which turns into a full one at 16. Every step happens at a driver license site, by appointment.

Book an appointment

Updated October 2026 · Written from official sources, listed at the bottom of this page

What does an ND driver's license take at each age?

AgeSteps
14‑15Permit, then driver education, 50 supervised hours and the road test. A license at 15 is restricted
16‑17Permit for at least six months, then the road test
18 and olderPermit, then the road test

The learner's permit page has the exact holding periods and who can supervise you.

ND learner's permit rules →North Dakota road test →

The restricted license at 15

  • You may drive only a vehicle belonging to your parent, guardian, grandparent, sibling, aunt or uncle.
  • Between sunset or 9 p.m., whichever is later, and 5 a.m., you need a parent, legal guardian or someone at least 18 with you. Driving straight to or from work, an official school activity or a religious activity is the exception.
  • At 16, the restricted license becomes unrestricted.
  • Until you turn 18, you can't use a phone or other electronic device while driving.

North Dakota's license classes

There are five classes, and each has its own written test and driving test. The permit test and the manual cover Class D only.

ClassWhat it covers
DCars and other single vehicles under 26,001 pounds, towing up to 10,000 pounds, plus RVs and some farm vehicles
MMotorcycles, two- or three-wheeled
A, B, CCommercial vehicles: combinations, heavy single vehicles, and vehicles for 16 or more people or placarded hazardous materials
North Dakota motorcycle permit test →North Dakota CDL permit test →

Moving to North Dakota

You count as a resident after living in the state for 90 days in a row, unless you're a nonresident student, a tourist or nonresident military. After you become a resident, your out-of-state license is good for 60 days, or 30 days for a commercial license. Then you take the tests NDDOT requires for a North Dakota license.

Who can't get a license

  • Anyone under 16 who isn't eligible for the restricted license.
  • Anyone whose license is suspended or revoked in North Dakota or another state.
  • People found to be addicted to drugs or alcohol, or whose condition makes them a hazard on the road.
  • People with a history of seizures, blackouts or fainting, unless they've had none for six months and agree to a medical exam.
Sources: NDDOT and 3 more. Checked October 2026.

Rules and fees can change, so check the official site before your test.

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