Each state has its perks, making riding a motorcycle comfortable. In the case of North Dakota, it is the fun factor.
Driving a motorcycle just feels different in this state, which is why many people want to get their motorcycle license as fast as possible.
Sadly, most people start this journey with the same question, “How to get a motorcycle license in North Dakota?.” Luckily for them, the process is not different from other states.
All you need to do is undergo the extensive application process and then pass a few tests. Once that is done, you will have to pay some fees and get your motorcycle license in no time!
There can be some requirements or details that may catch you off guard as well. If you want to avoid this, I recommend reading the article until the end. This will ensure you have all of the facts and information.
Motorcycle License Requirements In North Dakota
Most requirements are properly telegraphed and conveyed by the state of North Dakota.
Unfortunately, some are a bit more obscure and may even go unnoticed by less careful individuals. This is most common with the documents phase of the process.
Knowing Your Age
Each state has a threshold you need to reach to start your journey to get a motorcycle license. While most states set the bar at 18, others will allow younger audiences to work towards their motorcycle license. North Dakota is one of them.
Age 14 – 17
The age of 14 is the earliest people can apply for a motorcycle license. Here is all the documentation that you will need to follow if you are fall in this age range. I’ll also mention the steps you need to do this.
- You must start by applying, in person, at NDDOT to begin the process. Fill out the application form and provide it as a document.
- You need to provide proof of your identity and the fact that you are a resident of North Dakota.
- This can be done via your US birth certificate. Passports, Military IDs, and official and legal immigration documents can also prove one’s identity.
- Along with all of this, you will need to give your social security number. You will need to give them proof that you have a valid learner’s permit.
- Once you get the go-ahead, you must prove that you have completed the tests. These tests include the knowledge test and the vision test.
- Additionally, school documents may also be asked of you if it applies.
Age 18 And Above
Most states do not have an intermediate age group. North Dakota seems to be an exception. Regardless, here are the documents you need to give if you are 18 or above.
- As in the previous section, you will need to start by applying in person at the NDDOT to begin the process. Fill out the application form and provide it as a document.
- Then, you will need to give proof of your identity. You also need to prove that you are a resident of North Dakota. This can be done via your US birth certificate. Passports, Military IDs, and official and legal immigration documents can also prove one’s identity.
- Further along, you will need to provide your social security number.
- By this point in time, you can give them proof that you have held a valid driver’s permit.
- Once you move on to the next steps, you can simply show them proofs that you have completed the tests. These tests include the knowledge test and the vision test.
- Documents about your marital status may also be asked, so it is good to have them handy.
Types Of Motorcycle Licenses
The state of North Dakota has two different licenses. The first is the restricted one, and the other is unrestricted. The unrestricted license will have its rules change depending on the age threshold.
Type 1: Restricted License
This motorcycle license is available to children who are below 18. Children must wear helmets at all times and are not allowed to transport any passengers. They can only drive before the sun sets.
Children between 14 and 15 will need to drive below 510 CC motorcycles. Children between this range will also have to take a motorcycle safety course. The CC restriction disappears for children between 16 to 17.
Type 2: Unrestricted License
This license is available for people who reach the age of 18. This is typically the license that most will aim for, as it has no drawbacks. You are not restricted in any form and can drive whenever you want.
How To Apply For Your North Dakota Motorcycle License
While the general process remains the same, you can opt for a road test or a motorcycle safety course. Aside from that, here is how you need to get your motorcycle license.
Step 1: Get A Driver’s License
Getting a driver’s license will prepare you for a motorcycle license, as the steps are virtually the same. You will need to apply at the NDDOT and provide all the documents. Then, you will need to give all of the tests and pass them.
Once you are done with that, you can simply pay the fees, and the driver’s license is yours. Depending on your age, you will also need to take a safety course and apply for a permit, which will slow your time to get a driver’s license.
Step 2: Testing For Your Motorcycle License
At this stage, you will need to pass a series of tests to continue. Here are all of them below:
1. Motorcycle Written Test
The written test will check your knowledge of the rules of the road and how to ride a motorcycle. It is an MCQ-based exam, and you must score at least 80% to pass it. Once you do, you can proceed to the other tests.
2. Vision Test
This simple sight test will check your ability to see down range. You need 20/40 vision to pass. If you fail, you can redo the test with the correct lenses and glasses equipped.
3. Motorcycle Road Test
The road test is the final hurdle that you need to complete. You can skip this exam entirely if you have already taken a motorcycle safety course.
The test will see your application of the rules you have learned and the mastery of your motorcycle riding skills. You will be asked to do various tasks in a course or on public roads.
Step 3: Collecting Your Paperwork
Once all the tests are done, you can return to the office and finish the final paperwork.
Make sure all the documents you get back are accounted for. Give them proof of passing the tests and complete any remaining documents you need to fill in.
Step 4: Go To Your Local Driver’s License Office
Finally, the last step in this lengthy process is going back to the NDDOT and paying all the fees. Your license will be sent to your house within 2 to 3 weeks. Once you do so, you will be done with the process.
Ways To Get A Motorcycle Endorsement In ND
The steps to get a motorcycle endorsement and a motorcycle license are the same. Here is a quick go-through:
Step 1: Apply And Provide Documents
Simply go to the NDDOT and ask them for a motorcycle endorsement. They will give you an application you need to fill out and ask you for the same documents mentioned above.
Step 2: Pass The Tests
Moving on, you will have to carry out the same three tests mentioned above. Once again, you can skip the road exam if you have taken an official motorcycle safety course.
Step 3: Pay Your Dues And Collect Your Documents
Once all of the tests are done, you will need to return to the NDDOT and pay all the dues. You should also collect your documents and fill out any remaining ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How Long Will It Take To Get A Motorcycle License In North Dakota?
The entire process can take up to 3 weeks if you are above 18. If you are between 14 and 15 years, then you will need to wait a whole year to get your license.
Q2: How Much Will It Cost To Get A Motorcycle License In North Dakota?
Assuming you just go for the license, you are looking at $15, excluding test fees. If you want to start from scratch, you will have to pay for the knowledge test, permits, and road exams etc.
The cost for each permit test is $5, the road test will also cost you $5 and the motorcycle permit fee is $8.
Q3: Should I Have A License To Ride A Motorcycle In North Dakota?
A license is a necessary tool for you to drive a motorcycle in North Dakota. Without one, you will be liable for a fine if you are pulled over. You also risk losing your motorcycle.
Conclusion
Those who ponder how to get a motorcycle license in North Dakota need not to fear anything. The entire process is straightforward and easy to follow as long as you can factor in all the documents and requirements.
Having 3 different age groups does not make this any easier, but the difference between them is negligible. Additionally, you should know the ins and outs of the entire licensing process, which will make your journey a lot easier.
Overall, you should be able to easily work towards your motorcycle license now that you have read this article.
I am a passionate blogger who wants to spread my interest in motorcycles. Fueled by my love for motorcycles, I provide readers with valuable insights and updates on motorcycles’ informative and engaging topics and document the latest happenings in the biking community. Despite my hectic schedule, I can provide these blogs, which involve regular trips to the gym and sports like mountain biking and BMX. I am usually available most of the time, so be sure to join me on my journey of motorcycles and bikes! I appreciate a quiet and simple life and am always eager to interact with my readers to provide helpful information on my blog site.
