• 5 min read

New to North Dakota? A Step-by-Step Guide to Exchanging Your Foreign License

Welcome to the Peace Garden State! As you begin your new chapter in North Dakota, one of the most important administrative tasks you'll face is getting a local driver's license. While you can drive on your valid foreign license for a short period, state law requires new residents to obtain a North Dakota license to continue driving legally.

Navigating the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) requirements can seem complicated, but this guide will break down the process into clear, manageable steps. We'll cover everything from residency rules and required documents to the specific tests you'll need to take.

Step 1: Understand North Dakota's Residency and Licensing Rules

The first step is to know how long you can legally drive on your out-of-country license and when you're required to get a North Dakota one.

Driving on Your Foreign License

If you are at least 16 years old and have a valid driver's license from your home country, you are permitted to drive in North Dakota. However, once you establish residency, this privilege becomes time-limited.

Establishing Residency

In North Dakota, you are considered a resident for driver licensing purposes after you have lived in the state for 90 consecutive days. Once you are deemed a resident, you have 60 days to obtain a North Dakota driver's license.

Reciprocity Agreements

North Dakota has reciprocity agreements with a few specific countries. These agreements simplify the licensing process by waiving certain test requirements. The countries with these agreements are Germany, South Korea, and Taiwan. If you hold a valid license from one of these nations, the road test (driving skills test) is typically waived. However, you will still be required to pass the vision and written knowledge tests. For all other countries, you must complete the entire testing process.

Step 2: Gather Your Required Documentation

The NDDOT has strict documentation requirements to prove your identity, legal presence, and residency. All documents must be original or certified copies; photocopies will not be accepted. You will also be required to surrender any other driver's licenses you hold from other states or countries.

Essential Document Checklist:

  • Proof of Identity, Date of Birth, and Legal Presence: You must provide one primary document. For non-U.S. citizens, this is typically:
    • A valid, unexpired Foreign Passport with an I-94 form.
    • A valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card or Employment Authorization Card.
  • Your Valid Foreign Driver's License: You must present your current, physical license. If the license is not in English, you should accompany it with an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a certified translation.
  • Proof of Social Security Number: You must provide your Social Security card or proof of your Social Security Number (SSN). If you are not eligible for an SSN, you must get an ineligibility letter from the Social Security Administration.
  • Proof of North Dakota Residency: You must provide two documents showing your current physical North Dakota address. PO Boxes are not acceptable. Examples include:
    • Utility bills (e.g., electricity, gas, water)
    • Bank or credit card statements
    • A lease or rental agreement
    • Pay stubs
  • Completed Application Form: You can fill out the application form at the driver license site.

Step 3: Schedule an Appointment and Take the Required Tests

You must make an appointment for all driver license services in North Dakota. You can do this online via the NDDOT website.

The Testing Process:

  1. Vision Screening: All applicants must pass a vision test to ensure they meet the state's safety standards. If you need glasses or contacts to pass, a restriction will be placed on your license.
  2. Written Knowledge Test: Unless you are transferring a license from Canada, you will need to pass the written knowledge test. The test consists of 25 questions about North Dakota's traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. A score of 80% (20 correct answers) is required to pass. The official North Dakota Driver License Manual is your best study resource.
  3. Road Test: If you are from a non-reciprocal country, this is the final step. You must pass an on-road driving skills test to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a vehicle. You must provide a properly registered, insured, and road-worthy vehicle for the test. The test takes about 15 minutes and will assess maneuvers like turning, stopping, backing, and parallel parking.

Step 4: Pay Fees and Receive Your License

Once you have successfully passed all your required tests and the examiner has approved your documents, you will pay the necessary fees. The standard fee for a Class D license or permit is $15, and the fee for each test (written or road) is $5.

After payment, you will be issued a temporary paper license, which is valid for driving immediately. Your permanent, physical North Dakota driver's license card will be mailed to your address.

By carefully following these steps and preparing all your documents in advance, you can make the process of getting your North Dakota driver's license a smooth and successful one. Welcome to the road in North Dakota!