Midwest · Instruction Permit
How to get your learner’s permit in North Dakota
North Dakota issues instruction permits at 14, among the youngest in the country. Younger applicants face a longer holding period and a 50-hour practice log before a restricted license at 15.
North Dakota permit requirements at a glance
| Minimum age | 14 |
|---|---|
| Official name | Instruction Permit |
| Supervised practice | 50 hours (for applicants under 16) |
| Minimum holding period | 12 months or until age 16, whichever comes first (never less than 6 months); 6 months for applicants 16 and older |
| Issuing agency | North Dakota Department of Transportation (official source ↗) |
How easy is it to get licensed in North Dakota?
Our Ease Score weighs starting age, practice hours, and waiting time. See how it works & the full 50-state ranking →
- Starting age
- 14
- Practice hours
- 50 hours (for applicants under 16)
- Waiting time
- 12 months or until age 16, whichever comes first
Longer bars = easier. Overall: 41/100. Easiest in the Midwest: Nebraska (#3) . Nationally, Arkansas is #1 and Maryland is #50.
Did you know? Wyoming makes you hold the permit for just 10 days — the next-shortest wait is 12× longer. See for yourself →
⏳ Count down to your North Dakota permit date · ⚔️ Compare North Dakota with another state · 📝 Track your practice hours
Steps to get your permit in North Dakota
- Confirm you’re eligible. You must be at least 14 . If you’re under 18, a parent or legal guardian will need to sign your application.
- Study the official North Dakota driver manual. The knowledge test is based on it — download it free from the North Dakota Department of Transportation site. Focus on road signs, right-of-way, and North Dakota’s specific teen-driving (GDL) restrictions.
- Gather your documents. Plan on proof of identity (certified birth certificate or valid passport), your Social Security number, two proofs of North Dakota residency, and — in many states — proof of school enrollment. The exact list is on the official North Dakota Department of Transportation page.
- Apply, pass the vision screening, and take the knowledge test. Most offices recommend or require an appointment, and a fee applies at application — check current fees on the official site, as they change periodically.
- Practice with a qualifying supervising driver. North Dakota requires 50 hours (for applicants under 16). Keep a signed log — you'll certify it later.
- Hold your permit for the required period. In North Dakota, that's 12 months or until age 16, whichever comes first (never less than 6 months); 6 months for applicants 16 and older. Then schedule your road test for the next license stage.
North Dakota learner’s permit FAQ
How old do you have to be to get a learner's permit in North Dakota?
The minimum age is 14. North Dakota calls this credential the Instruction Permit.
How many supervised driving hours does North Dakota require?
North Dakota requires 50 hours (for applicants under 16). A parent, guardian, or qualifying licensed adult must certify the hours.
How long do you have to hold a learner's permit in North Dakota?
The minimum holding period is 12 months or until age 16, whichever comes first (never less than 6 months); 6 months for applicants 16 and older before you can move to the next license stage.
Can you drive alone with a learner's permit in North Dakota?
No. In every US state, a permit holder must be supervised by a qualifying licensed adult seated in the front passenger seat. Driving alone on a permit can lead to citations and can delay your license.
Is North Dakota an easy state to get licensed in?
North Dakota ranks #28 of 50 on our Ease Score (41/100), which weighs starting age, required practice hours, and the permit waiting period. Arkansas is the easiest state in the nation and Maryland is the toughest.