How to Get Your North Dakota Learner's Permit

Everything you need to know about the NDDOT instruction permit process — requirements, documents, GDL program, and road test waiver options.

Meet the Minimum Age Requirement

You must be at least 14 years old to apply for a North Dakota instruction permit. To be eligible for behind-the-wheel training, you must also be at least 14 years old. Applicants under 18 need parent or legal guardian consent.

Gather Required Documents

Proof of identity and legal presence: U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, permanent resident card, or other approved document
Proof of Social Security Number: SSN card, W-2, SSA-1099, or pay stub
Two documents proving North Dakota residence: Utility bill, bank statement, school transcript, current insurance policy, mortgage/lease document, or similar official document with your name and address
If under 18: A parent or legal guardian must sign the application (guardianship papers required for legal guardians)

Pass the Knowledge Test

You can take the knowledge test online at nd.knowtodrive.com or at a NDDOT driver license office by appointment at dot.nd.gov or by calling 1-855-633-6835. You need to pass a vision screening as well. Important: No phones, backpacks, or electronic devices are allowed in the testing area. You receive a failed score if you bring these items in or leave before completing the test. If you pass online, you must still visit a NDDOT office to physically receive your permit.

Complete Supervised Driving (under 16)

Permit holders under age 16 must complete a minimum of 50 hours of supervised driving in varied conditions: rural areas, urban areas, gravel/dirt roads, night driving, and winter conditions. The supervising driver must be a licensed driver, at least 18 years old, with at least 3 years of driving experience, seated in the front seat beside you. This is in addition to any formal driver's education program.

Understand GDL Permit Hold Requirements

Ages 14–15: Must hold permit 12 months (or until age 16, whichever comes first — but no less than 6 months) before road test
Ages 16–17: Must hold permit 6 months (or until age 18, whichever comes first) before road test
While under 16 with a permit: a licensed driver 18+ with 3 years experience must always be in the seat beside you

Take the Road Test (or Waive It)

Applicants under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian for the road test. The road test may be waived by presenting a North Dakota Driving School Certificate of Course Completion (30 hours classroom + 6 hours BTW) or a Department of Public Instruction Student Completion Certificate with the same requirements, approved by NDDOT. Arrive early for your appointment — road test vehicles must pass equipment inspection.

Age-15 Restricted License: After passing the road test at 15, you receive a restricted Class D license. You can only drive your parent's, guardian's, grandparent's, sibling's, aunt's, or uncle's vehicles. You may not drive without a parent/guardian or an adult 18+ between the later of sunset or 9:00 PM and 5:00 AM, except for direct travel to/from work, official school activity, or religious activity. At age 16, the restriction is lifted automatically.

New Residents Moving to North Dakota

If you've lived in North Dakota for 90 consecutive days, you're considered a resident and must get a North Dakota license. You have 60 days after becoming a resident to obtain your ND license (Class D or M). Class A, B, or C commercial drivers have only 30 days. You'll need to pass the knowledge test and road test unless your license from another state meets the requirements.

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