Drivers License

Guide to Obtaining a North Dakota driver license for International Students

The information below is provided as a guide through the process of obtaining a North Dakota driver license. Review the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) webpage for the most accurate and up-to-date information. 

Obtain a North Dakota Driver License

Confirm Eligibility

You must:

• Live in North Dakota.
• Have legal status. F-1 and J-1 students who are in ACTIVE status, are at least 16 years old, and have a valid passport, and I-20 are eligible. Students in Initial, Completed, and Terminated status are not eligible to apply. 

Schedule an Appointment

• Review the NDDOT: Drivers from Other Nations  webpage.
• Schedule an appointment using the Driver License Office Online Scheduler.

Before your Appointment

Gather Required Documents

If possible, bring extra documentation in case additional verification is needed.

Bring ORIGINAL Proof of identification documents (no photocopies):

Proof of Identity & Legal Presence

• A valid passport that remains valid for at least 6 months along with your I-94, or
• Your most recent I-94. You can find and print your I-94 by visiting the I-94 website, selecting Get Most Recent I-94 and entering your passport information.

Social Security Number

• Social Security card or
• A letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not eligible for a Social Security Number. Learn how to obtain a Social Security denial letter.

Two Proofs of North Dakota Residency

Examples include:

• Utility bill
• Lease
• Bank statement

See the NDDOT Proof of identification requirements for additional details.

Name Change Documents (if applicable)

• Study for the written test using the Noncommercial Driver License Manual.
• Complete the Pre-Application. You will still need to visit an office to finish the process, but this can reduce the time you spend at the counter during your appointment.

Appointment

Be on time for your scheduled appointment and:

• Bring all required documents.
• Complete the application.
• Pass the vision screening.
• Pay required fees.
  • Test and application fees are typically $25 or more.
• Successfully complete the written knowledge test.
  • Be sure to check testing requirements, as you may be able to complete the test online from home.
• Have your required photo taken.
  • Glasses are not permitted in any photos.
• Surrender any driver's licenses from other states or countries (if applicable).

Schedule a Road Test

After passing the written knowledge test, schedule your road test appointment using the Online Road Test Scheduler.

Please note:

• Road tests are conducted in English only
• You must bring a car for the road test.

Once you complete all requirements, you'll be issued a North Dakota driver license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Be sure to review the NDDOT website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

What if I already have a driver's license that is not from North Dakota?

• F-1 and J-1 international students with a valid driver’s license from another state or their home country may use that license to driver a motor vehicle for up to 5 months after arriving in North Dakota.
• After living in North Dakota for 5 months, you are considered a North Dakota resident for driver's license  purposes and must obtain a North Dakota driver license if you wish to continue operating a motor vehicle.
• Police and other law enforcement officials must be able to interpret your driver’s license. If your driver’s license is not in English, you must provide a translation upon request.
• Failure to not obtain an North Dakota driver license after living in North Dakota for 5 months may result in fine or criminal charges.

How long will my Driver License be valid ?

• Your driver license will be valid for the duration of your I-20 or DS-2019.
• Students who extend their program should remember to renew their driver license
• Students with pending OPT application may experience difficulty renewing their driver license because the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) verification system cannot view pending OPT applications. The DMV staff can request manual verification of your records, so be sure to ask for this service if you encounter problems.