Getting your license is one thing — ensuring it remains valid is another.
Drivers in North Dakota need to undergo the renewal process every 4 years.
Fortunately, you have several options for North Dakota driver’s license renewal.
And, this guide provides you with the essential information — from the requirements to the steps.
This way, you’ll know what to expect once you begin the process.
So, are you ready to start?
Here we go!
How to Renew A Driver’s License in North Dakota
Renewing your driver’s license in North Dakota doesn’t need to be stressful. After all, there are 3 ways to complete the process:
- Online
- In Person
- By Mail
However, it’s essential to understand which channels are available to you. So let’s look at the requirements, as well as the steps, for each one.
How to Renew an ND Driver’s License Online
The option most people explore first is online renewal. I mean, who wouldn’t want a convenient method?
But when it comes to online renewal, you need to meet a few eligibility requirements. So, before we look at the steps, let’s see if you qualify.
See if these requirements match your situation:
- Your last renewal was in person (you can only renew online for every other renewal).
- You are not looking to upgrade your license to one that’s REAL ID-compliant.
- You are under 70 years old.
- You’ve renewed your driver’s license at least once after turning 21.
- All your information is up-to-date, and no change is needed (not applicable to address changes).
A check on every item means you’re eligible for an online renewal.
Now that you know it’s an option for you, here are the steps to take:
- Go to North Dakota’s Drivers License Renewal System.
- Fill out the necessary fields.
- Upload any necessary documents.
- Vision screening results for those with 1, 2, or 5 license restrictions.
- 2 forms to show proof of residency (if your address changed)
- 2 proof of residency, proof of legal presence, and proof of medical examiner certificate for commercial licenses.
- Pay the fee of $15. If renewing a commercial license with endorsements, you need to pay $3 for each endorsement.
- Wait for the DMV to send your new license to the address you have on file (it typically takes around 10 business days). If you’ve moved since your last renewal cycle, you must update your information before renewing it.
It’s as easy as that!
How to Renew an ND Driver’s License In-Person
Not eligible for online renewal?
Don’t fret – renewing in person isn’t as hassle as you might think.
You only need to:
- Schedule a visit to renew your driver’s license. The Online Scheduler makes scheduling your visit a breeze.
- Receive a confirmation email containing a booking number, which you must show during your visit.
- Besides your booking number, don’t forget the following on your visit:
- Your current North Dakota-issued license
- Your corrective lenses (if you need them while driving)
- Proof of address (if you moved since your last renewal)
- (OPTIONAL) Provide the required documents to upgrade your license to a REAL ID-Compliant one. These include:
- Proof of identity
- Proof of a valid Social Security Number
- Two documents showing your North Dakota address
NOTE: It’s best to ensure you have the right documents with you — click here to see a complete list.
- Be prepared to do the following during your visit:
- Pass a vision test
- Pass the written and driving tests (if your driver’s license expired more than one year ago)
- Have your photo taken
- Pay the $15 renewal fee
- Get your new license.
Sure, this method may take up more of your time — but if you know the steps, you can go through the process efficiently.
How to Renew an ND Driver’s License By Mail
What if you are out of state when it’s time to renew your ND driver’s license?
Well, you can contact dl@nd.gov and provide your license number, your out-of-state mailing address, and proof of your North Dakota address.
From there, they will determine if you are eligible for mail renewal. They will also send you the details on how you can renew through the mail.
NOTE! This is not available for commercial drivers. What’s more, you can only renew your driver’s license by mail ONCE.
They will also send you steps on how you can proceed to renew by mail.
As for those out of state for active military duties, they are allowed to use their expired license as long as they’re not in North Dakota. Once they arrive home, they have to renew it within 30 days.
FAQs
So you now know how to renew your ND driver’s license…
But you might still have some questions.
Well, let’s answer some of the most frequently asked ones.
When does my ND driver’s license expire?
Driver’s licenses in North Dakota remain valid for 4 years. They expire at midnight on your birthday.
Remember, you don’t have to wait until the last minute before renewing. North Dakota allows you to complete the process at least 10 months before the expiration date.
What do you need to renew your driver’s license in North Dakota?
The only thing you need for your renewal is your North Dakota-issued driver’s license and the $15 fee.
However, depending on your situation, you may need to provide the following:
- Your booking confirmation (if renewing in person)
- Vision screening result (if renewing online and your license has 1, 2, or 5 restrictions)
- Your corrective lenses (if you need them to drive)
- 2 proofs of North Dakota residence (if your address has changed)
- Proofs of identity, Social Security number, and North Dakota residence (if upgrading to a REAL ID-compliance license)
Do I need an appointment to visit the DMV in ND?
Yes, you must make an appointment through the Online Scheduler before visiting a Driver’s License Site. You will receive a booking confirmation number in the email address you provided, which you must bring to your appointment.
Is there a grace period for expired driver’s licenses in North Dakota?
There is no grace period in North Dakota. So if a law enforcement officer pulls you over and finds you driving without a valid license, you will face penalties.
That said, you won’t need to undergo another written and driving test when you renew an expired license (except if the expiration date was more than a year ago).
What are the penalties for expired driver’s licenses in North Dakota?
There are consequences for driving without a valid license in North Dakota. These include the following:
- A $20 fine
- 4 demerit points against your driver’s license
Remember, accumulating excessive points may lead to graver penalties, such as license suspension or revocation.
The Wrap Up
North Dakota driver’s license renewal doesn’t have to be a stressful situation.
If you are eligible for online renewal, there’s no stress at all!
If not, then there’s still little to no stress, even if in-person or mail renewal may take some of your time.
So what are you waiting for?
Now that you know all your options and all the steps, don’t delay!