North Dakota DMV Address Change: What You Need to Know

The North Dakota Department of Transportation handles driver's license and vehicle registration changes. To change your address, you can visit a driver's license examination station in person, mail in a form, or use an online option if you meet certain requirements. North Dakota does not charge a fee for address changes on your driver's license, though vehicle registration address changes may have different rules depending on whether you renew at the same time.

The fastest route is usually an in-person visit to your nearest examination station, where staff can update your record when ready. If you cannot visit in person, mailing works but takes longer — typically one to two weeks for processing. Online renewal with an address change is available only if your license is not expired and you are renewing it at the same time.

Key Takeaways

  • North Dakota does not charge a fee to change your address on your driver's license, whether you do it in person or by mail.
  • You can change your address at any driver's license examination station without an appointment, though wait times vary by location and time of day.
  • If you mail your request, include your current license, a completed form, and proof of your new address such as a utility bill or lease.
  • Vehicle registration address changes follow the same process as driver's license changes and can be done together in one visit.
  • Online address changes are only available if you are renewing your license at the same time and your current license is not expired.

In-Person Address Changes at North Dakota Examination Stations

Every North Dakota driver's license examination station can process an address change while you wait. You do not need an appointment. Bring your current driver's license, proof of your new address (such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and address), and proof of identity if your license has expired. The staff will update your record and issue a new license with your new address printed on it.

Examination stations are located in most cities and towns across the state. You can find the full list and hours on the North Dakota Department of Transportation website. Wait times are usually shortest on weekday mornings and longest on Friday afternoons and the day before holidays. If you live in a rural area far from an examination station, mailing your request may be more practical.

Mailing Your Address Change to North Dakota DOT

To change your address by mail, complete Form SFN 14033 (process for North Dakota Driver License or Identification Card). You can read this form from the North Dakota DOT website or request it by phone. Include your current driver's license, the completed form, and a copy of proof of your new address. Mail everything to the address listed on the form — typically the Driver License Division in Bismarck.

Processing by mail takes one to two weeks from the date the DOT receives your envelope. Your new license will be mailed to your new address. Keep track of when you mail your request so you know when to expect your new license. If you do not receive it within three weeks, contact the Driver License Division to confirm they received your package.

Online Address Changes During License Renewal

North Dakota offers online renewal with an address change, but only under specific conditions. Your current license must not be expired, and you must be renewing your license at the same time you change your address. You cannot change your address online if your license has already expired or if you only want to update your address without renewing.

If you are may be able to access, visit the North Dakota DOT website and follow the online renewal process. You will be asked to enter your new address during the renewal steps. The fee for online renewal is the same as in-person renewal. Your new license will be mailed to your new address within one to two weeks.

Changing Your Vehicle Registration Address

Your vehicle registration address change follows the same process as your driver's license change. You can update both at the same examination station visit, or handle them separately. If you change your registration address at an examination station, bring your current registration card and proof of your new address. The staff will issue you an updated registration card at no charge.

If you are renewing your vehicle registration at the same time, you will pay the renewal fee but no additional charge for the address change. If you are only changing the address without renewing, there is no fee. You can also mail your registration address change using the same form and process as your driver's license change.

What Counts as Proof of Your New Address

North Dakota accepts several documents as proof of your new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name is the most common choice. A lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, bank or credit card statement, or insurance policy showing your name and new address also work. The document must show both your name and your complete new address.

The document does not have to be recent, but it should be dated within the last 60 days to avoid questions. If you have just moved and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on their letterhead confirming your new address. Some examination stations will accept a signed letter from a family member or employer if you have no other option, though this is less common — call ahead to confirm.

Timeline and What to Expect

An in-person address change takes about 15 to 30 minutes at an examination station, depending on how busy the office is. You walk out with your new license the same day. A mailed request takes one to two weeks for processing, plus mail delivery time — plan for three weeks total from the date you mail your envelope to receiving your new license.

Online renewal with an address change takes a few minutes to complete, and your new license arrives by mail within one to two weeks. If you are changing your address because you moved out of state, you should update your address before your license expires. North Dakota will not renew a license for someone who no longer lives in the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address on my driver's license if I move?

North Dakota law requires you to notify the Department of Transportation of your new address within 30 days of moving. You are not required to get a new license card when ready, but your record must be updated. It is practical to get a new card printed with your new address so you have current identification.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

Yes, you can change your address on an expired license at any examination station. Bring your expired license, proof of your new address, and proof of identity. You will need to renew your license at the same time, which will cost the standard renewal fee. You cannot do this online — you must visit in person or mail your request.

What if I moved out of state but still have a North Dakota license?

You should get a license in your new state as soon as you establish residency there. If you want to keep your North Dakota address on file for mail purposes, you can update it to a forwarding address or a relative's address in North Dakota. Contact the Driver License Division to discuss your situation.

How long does my new license take to arrive if I mail my request?

Processing takes one to two weeks from the date the DOT receives your envelope, plus mail delivery time. Plan for three weeks total. If you do not receive your new license within three weeks of mailing, call the Driver License Division at the number on the North Dakota DOT website to confirm they received your request.

Can I change my address without renewing my license online?

No. Online address changes are only available during license renewal, and only if your current license is not expired. If you want to change your address without renewing, you must visit an examination station in person or mail your request.