Time to Renew Your North Dakota Driver's License? Here's Everything You Need to Know

For every driver in the Peace Garden State, renewing your driver's license is a periodic but essential task. It's the state's way of ensuring your photo and information are up-to-date and that you continue to meet the vision standards required for safe driving. While this process used to always mean a trip to a Driver's License Site, the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) now offers convenient online renewal for many eligible drivers.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the renewal process, from when and how to renew to the required vision test, fees, and the important REAL ID standard.

When Do I Need to Renew My ND Driver's License?

A standard North Dakota driver's license (Class D) is typically valid for six years. Your license expires on your birthday in the final year of its validity.

The NDDOT mails a renewal notice to your address on file before your license is set to expire. This is your official reminder to begin the process. It's crucial that your address is always current with the NDDOT to ensure you receive this important document. You can renew your license up to 10 months before its expiration date.

What Happens if My License Expires?

It is illegal to drive with an expired license.

If your license has been expired for less than one year, you can still renew it, but you may have to do so in person.
If your license has been expired for more than one year, you cannot renew it. You will be treated as a new applicant and will be required to retake the written knowledge test and the road test all over again.

The lesson is clear: Renew on time to avoid the significant hassle and re-testing.

The Mandatory Vision Test

Before you can renew your license in North Dakota, you must pass a vision test. This is a strict requirement for every renewal.

In-Person Renewal: The vision screening will be conducted by the NDDOT staff at the Driver's License Site.
Online Renewal: You will be required to have a licensed eye care specialist complete a "Certificate of Vision" form (SFN 51103), which you will then submit to the NDDOT.

To pass, you must have vision of 20/40 or better with both eyes, with or without corrective lenses.

North Dakota License Renewal Options

Option 1: Online Renewal (The Most Convenient Method)

If you are eligible, renewing online is the fastest and easiest way to get the job done.

Who can renew online?

You are between the ages of 21 and 64.
You are a U.S. citizen.
You are renewing a standard Class D license.
Your license is not suspended, revoked, or canceled.
Your current license is a REAL ID (has a gold star).

To renew online:

Get a Vision Test: You must first have an eye care specialist complete the Certificate of Vision form.
Visit the NDDOT Portal: Go to the official NDDOT website and access the online renewal service.
Submit Your Information: You will need to enter your personal information and upload your completed vision form.
Pay the Fee: Pay the renewal fee with a credit or debit card.
Your new license will be mailed to you.

Option 2: In-Person Renewal at a Driver's License Site

You will need to schedule an appointment and renew in person if:

You are not eligible to renew online.
You are under 21 or over 64 years of age.
You want to upgrade to a REAL ID for the first time.
You need to change your name.
Your license is already expired.

Steps for In-Person Renewal:

Schedule an Appointment: All in-person services require an appointment. Book this through the NDDOT's online scheduling system to avoid long waits.
Gather Your Documents:
- For a standard renewal, bring your expiring license and proof of address.
- To upgrade to a REAL ID, you must bring your full set of original documents: one proof of identity, one proof of Social Security, and two proofs of ND residency.
Pass the Vision Test: This will be administered at the site.
Get a New Photo: Your picture will be updated.
Pay the Renewal Fee.

You will receive your new license in the mail.

Renewal Fees and the REAL ID Standard

6-Year License Renewal Fee: $15.00
Name or Address Change Fee: $3.00
Duplicate License Fee: $8.00

The North Dakota REAL ID

A REAL ID is a federally compliant driver's license, identifiable by a gold star in the upper right corner. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID (or another compliant ID, like a passport) to board domestic flights or enter secure federal buildings.

If your current license does not have the gold star, your renewal is the perfect time to upgrade. Remember, you must schedule an in-person appointment to do this and bring all of your original identity and residency documents, even if you've presented them before.

Keeping your driver's license current is a fundamental responsibility. By knowing your renewal date, understanding your renewal options, and preparing your documents in advance—especially if you're upgrading to a REAL ID—you can make the process quick, efficient, and stress-free.