Moving is stressful enough without worrying about legal technicalities. If you have recently moved within North Dakota, state law requires you to notify the Department of Transportation (NDDOT) of your new address within 10 days.
The good news? You can update your official record online for free in minutes. However, updating the record does notautomatically get you a new plastic license—you have to request that separately.
Here is exactly how to update your address, avoid fines, and decide if you need a replacement card.
Method 1: Update Your Record Online (Fastest)
If you just want to comply with the 10-day rule and don’t mind keeping your old address printed on your current card, this is the best option. It is free and instant.
Note: This updates your driving record only. It does not update your vehicle registration (we will cover that below).
- Go to the NDDOT Portal: Visit the official Drivers License Address Change System.
- Verify Your Identity: You will need your Full Name, Driver’s License Number, and Date of Birth.
- Enter New Address: Input your new physical residence (PO Boxes are not accepted for residential addresses).
- Confirmation: Save the confirmation screen or email.
Important: If you choose this method, your physical license will still show your old address. This is legal for driving, but some businesses (like rental agencies or TSA) may require your printed address to match your current residence.
Method 2: Get a Replacement Card (In-Person or Online)
If you want a new card with your current address printed on it, you must apply for a “Duplicate License.” There is an $8 fee for this service.
Option A: Order Duplicate Online
You can order a replacement card online through the NDDOT “Substitute License” portal. This saves you a trip to the DMV, but you will use the same photo currently on file.
Option B: Visit a Driver License Site (Required for Real ID)
If you need to upgrade to a Real ID or if your name has also changed, you must visit in person.
- Schedule a Visit: Save time by booking a slot. (Check our guide on making a North Dakota DMV Appointment to skip the line).
- Bring Proof of Residence: You typically need two documents proving your new address, such as:
- Utility bill (electricity, gas, or water).
- Lease agreement or mortgage statement.
- Property tax statement.
- Note: Personal mail is usually not accepted.
- Pay the Fee: The standard fee for a duplicate card is $8.
Don’t Forget to Update Your Vehicle Registration Address
Many drivers assume that changing their license address automatically updates their car’s registration. It does not. The NDDOT keeps these databases separate.
If you don’t update this, your renewal notices will go to your old house.
- Where to do it: Use the Motor Vehicle Address Change portal.
- What you need: Your vehicle’s current registration card.
If you are new to the state and need temporary tags while sorting this out, you might be eligible for a 30-day registration permit in North Dakota.
Common Mistakes and Important Restrictions
- CDL Holders: If you hold a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), you generally cannot update your address online if you need a new card; you must visit a site or submit specific applications to ensure compliance with federal regulations.
- Suspended Licenses: You cannot update an address or get a duplicate card if your license is currently suspended.You must clear the suspension first. (See: ND Drivers License Reinstatement).
- Mailing Address vs. Residential: You can have a separate mailing address (like a PO Box), but you must provide a physical residential address for the state records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Technically, no—as long as you have notified the NDDOT within 10 days of moving. However, having the wrong address on your card can cause issues with identity verification at banks or airports.
It is free to update your address in the NDDOT database. If you want a new plastic card with the new address printed on it, the fee is $8.
No. While the NDDOT shares data with election officials in some capacities, it is safest to update your voter registration separately at vote.nd.gov to ensure you are assigned to the correct polling place.
While you are unlikely to be pulled over just for this, if you are stopped for another reason (like speeding), an officer can issue a citation for failing to notify the state of an address change. It also puts you at risk of missing critical mail, such as suspension notices or registration renewals. For peace of mind, check your North Dakota driving record to ensure no missed notices have affected your status.
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