As North Dakota’s population ages—with about 17% of residents now 65 or older—understanding the state’s rules for senior driver’s license renewal is more important than ever. The North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) has specific procedures in place to help older drivers maintain their independence while ensuring road safety.
License Validity and Renewal Frequency
For most North Dakota drivers, licenses are valid for six years and expire at midnight on the driver’s birthday. However, once a driver reaches the age of 78, the license is valid for only four years. This shorter renewal cycle is designed to help monitor the driving abilities of older residents.
Renewal Options
Online Renewal:
Most drivers can renew their license online, but this option is not available to those who are 70 years or older. Online renewal is also restricted if you have changed your name or other personal information (other than address), if your last renewal was online (since online renewal is only permitted every other cycle), or if you need to upgrade to a REAL ID.
In-Person Renewal:
Drivers age 70 and older must renew their license in person at an NDDOT driver license site. Walk-ins are not accepted; appointments are required and can be scheduled using the NDDOT’s online scheduler. When booking, you’ll receive a confirmation number to bring to your appointment.
Mail Renewal:
This option is available only to active-duty military members stationed outside of North Dakota.
Requirements for Seniors
Vision Test: Drivers age 70 and older must pass a vision test at the time of in-person renewal. You can either take the test at the licensing office or bring a Certificate of Vision from a physician or optometrist, provided the certificate is not more than six months old.
Corrective Lenses: If you need corrective lenses to drive, bring them to your appointment. Note that glasses are not allowed in your license photo.
Early Renewal: You can renew your license up to 10 months before it expires without losing any time on your license.
Appointments: Required for in-person renewal; walk-ins are not accepted.
Fees: The standard renewal fee is $15 for a noncommercial license.
Preparing for Your Appointment
Before your in-person appointment, complete the Pre-Application available on the NDDOT website to speed up your visit. Bring your current North Dakota driver’s license, your confirmation number, and any required corrective lenses or vision certificate.
What Happens If You Miss the Renewal Deadline?
If your license expires, you cannot legally drive until it is renewed. If it has been less than a year since expiration, you can still renew without retaking knowledge and road tests. After a year, you’ll need to pass both tests again.
Sources:
1. https://www.dot.nd.gov/driver/online-services-drivers/driver-license-renewal
2. https://apps.nd.gov/dot/dlts/dlos/renewal/welcome.htm
3. https://www.nursenextdoor.com/blog/6-tips-elderly-drivers-license-renewals
