How to Contact and Use the North Dakota Department of Motor Vehicles

What the North Dakota DMV handles and where to reach it

The North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) Division of Motor Vehicles is the state agency that issues driver's licenses, processes vehicle registrations, handles title transfers, and manages commercial driver's licenses. Unlike some states, North Dakota does not have a separate "DMV" — motor vehicle services are part of the state transportation department.

You can reach the Motor Vehicles Division by phone at 701-328-2725 during business hours, or visit their main office in Bismarck at 608 East Boulevard Avenue. The division also operates service centers in Fargo, Grand Forks, Minot, and Williston. Each location handles the same core services, though some transactions can be completed by mail or online depending on what you need.

The official website is dmv.nd.gov, where you can read forms, check current fees, and find the address and hours of your nearest service center. North Dakota also allows you to renew your driver's license online if you meet certain conditions — primarily that your license is not expired by more than two years and you have no medical restrictions.

Key Takeaways

North Dakota's motor vehicle services are run by the NDDOT Division of Motor Vehicles, reachable at 701-328-2725 or through dmv.nd.gov.
Service centers operate in Bismarck, Fargo, Grand Forks, Minot, and Williston, and most transactions require an in-person visit or mail submission with original documents.
Driver's license renewals can sometimes be completed online if your license expired fewer than two years ago and you have no medical restrictions.
You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number for most transactions involving a new or renewed license.
Vehicle registration and title work typically require the vehicle's current registration or title, proof of ownership, and proof of North Dakota residency.

Driver's license applications and renewals

To get a new North Dakota driver's license, you must visit a service center in person with original documents. You will need a valid form of identification (passport, military ID, or out-of-state license), proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of North Dakota residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 30 days). Bring your current out-of-state license if you have one.

Renewal by mail is not available, but online renewal works if your license expired no more than two years ago, you have no medical restrictions, and your address has not changed. You can renew online through dmv.nd.gov using your license number and date of birth. The fee for a standard driver's license is $80 for an eight-year term. If you are under 18, the license costs less and expires when you turn 21.

Real ID compliant licenses are available in North Dakota and cost the same as a standard license. You will need the same documents as a new license process. Real ID licenses are marked with a star and meet federal requirements for air travel and federal building access.

Vehicle registration and title transfers

To register a vehicle in North Dakota, you need the vehicle's title (or a bill of sale if you are buying from a private party), proof of ownership, proof of North Dakota residency, and the vehicle's VIN. If the vehicle is financed, bring proof of the lien. Registration fees vary based on vehicle weight and type — contact the Motor Vehicles Division or check dmv.nd.gov for the exact fee for your vehicle.

Title transfers happen when you buy a used vehicle. The seller must sign the title, and you must submit it to the Motor Vehicles Division along with a bill of sale, proof of residency, and the registration fee. If the vehicle is financed, the lender's name will appear on the title. You cannot register the vehicle until the title is transferred to your name.

You can mail in title and registration paperwork if you include all required documents and payment. Mail applications to the NDDOT Division of Motor Vehicles, 608 East Boulevard Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58505. Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks. In-person service at any North Dakota service center is faster — usually same-day or next-day processing.

Commercial driver's licenses (CDL)

North Dakota issues commercial driver's licenses to drivers who operate vehicles over 26,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating or who transport hazardous materials. You must be at least 18 years old (21 for interstate commerce) and hold a valid North Dakota driver's license before you can get a CDL.

The CDL process requires a written knowledge test, a skills test (pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving), and a medical examination by a certified medical examiner. You must pass the knowledge test before you can schedule the skills test. Bring the same identity and residency documents you would for a regular license, plus your current license and proof of medical certification.

CDL fees and testing schedules vary. Contact the Motor Vehicles Division at 701-328-2725 to learn about testing dates and locations, or check dmv.nd.gov for current information on CDL requirements and fees.

Address changes and license corrections

If you move within North Dakota, you must update your address with the Motor Vehicles Division within 30 days. You can do this in person at any service center, by mail, or online through dmv.nd.gov if you have a valid driver's license number and date of birth. An address change by mail requires a signed form and proof of your new North Dakota address.

If your license has an error on it — a misspelled name, wrong date of birth, or incorrect address — visit a service center with your current license and proof of the correct information. Corrections are usually made on the spot. If the error is the state's mistake, there is no fee. If you requested the correction, a small fee may explore.

Lost or stolen licenses can be replaced at any service center. Bring your current ID and proof of residency. A replacement license costs less than a new license and is processed quickly. You can also report a lost license by phone at 701-328-2725 and request a replacement by mail.

Duplicate documents and records requests

You can request a duplicate registration certificate, title, or other motor vehicle record by visiting a service center, calling 701-328-2725, or mailing a written request to the Motor Vehicles Division. Include your name, driver's license number or vehicle identification number, and the type of document you need. A small fee applies for duplicate documents.

Records requests by mail should be sent to NDDOT Division of Motor Vehicles, 608 East Boulevard Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58505. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want the documents mailed back. Processing time for mail requests is typically one to two weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my North Dakota driver's license online?

Yes, if your license expired no more than two years ago, you have no medical restrictions, and your address has not changed. You can renew online through dmv.nd.gov using your license number and date of birth. If your license is older than two years expired or you have medical restrictions, you must renew in person at a service center.

What documents do I need to get a North Dakota driver's license for the first time?

Bring a valid form of ID (passport, military ID, or out-of-state license), proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of North Dakota residency dated within 30 days (utility bill, lease, or bank statement). You must visit a service center in person.

How long does it take to get a vehicle title transferred?

In-person processing at a service center usually takes the same day or next business day. If you mail in your title transfer paperwork with all required documents, processing takes two to three weeks. The Motor Vehicles Division will contact you if any documents are missing.

What is the fee for a North Dakota vehicle registration?

Registration fees vary based on the vehicle's weight and type. Contact the Motor Vehicles Division at 701-328-2725 or check dmv.nd.gov for the exact fee for your specific vehicle. Fees are updated annually.

Where are North Dakota's motor vehicle service centers located?

Service centers are in Bismarck (main office), Fargo, Grand Forks, Minot, and Williston. All locations handle driver's licenses, vehicle registration, titles, and commercial driver's licenses. Hours and addresses are listed on dmv.nd.gov, or call 701-328-2725 for specific location information.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.