Young Drivers

Teenage driver smiling in a car

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of injury-related death for teens in North Dakota. Inexperience and risk-taking behaviors, such as speeding, impaired driving and not wearing a seat belt, increase crash risk for young drivers.

Teens age 14–19 make up about 6% of licensed drivers in North Dakota but are involved in 21% of all crashes. In 2024, teen drivers were involved in 7% of fatal crashes, and 44 teens have died in vehicle crashes over the past five years.

Age 14: Instruction/Learner’s Permit (NDCC 39-06-04)

Minimum Age: 14 years old

Licensing Requirements: 

  • Pass vision and written knowledge tests at a NDDOT licensing facility.
  • Parental or guardian consent is required.

Supervised Driving Rules:

  • Must drive only under the supervision of a licensed adult (at least 18 years old with 3+ years of driving experience).
  • Complete and document 50 hours of supervised driving in a log, including night and varied road conditions.

Required Holding Period:

  • If starting at age 14: Must hold the permit for at least 12 months.
  • If starting at age 15: Must hold for at least 6 months or until reaching age 16 (whichever is longer).

Age 15: Intermediate/Restricted License (NDCC 39-06-17)

Minimum Age: 15 years old

Licensing Requirements:

  • Successfully complete the 50-hour supervised driving log and permit holding period.
  • Complete an approved driver education course (30 classroom hours, 6 behind-the-wheel, and 6 observation hours—or 6 hours at a commercial driving school).
  • Pass the official NDDOT road driving test.

License Restrictions:

  • Vehicle Ownership: May only drive a vehicle owned by a parent or legal guardian.
  • Curfew: No driving between 9 p.m. (or sunset, whichever is later) and 5 a.m. Exceptions are made for work, school, or religious events.
  • Distractions: No cellphone use while driving (including hands-free).
  • Required Holding Period: Until age 16 (maximum 12 months).

Age 16: Full/Unrestricted License 

Minimum Age: 16 years old

Eligibility:

  • Drivers gain automatic eligibility for a full, unrestricted license once the intermediate phase requirements and age milestones are satisfied.
  • Commitment: While restrictions are lifted, all drivers are encouraged to continue following the safe driving habits established during the GDL process. Always Buckle Up. Drive Sober. Stay Focused.

New drivers are still learning how to:

  • Recognize hazards and react quickly.
  • Adjust speed for traffic, weather and road conditions.
  • Manage distractions and peer pressure.

These factors make responsible choices especially important during the first years of driving.

North Dakota uses a graduated licensing system to help teens gain driving experience safely.

  • Learner’s Permit: Requires supervised driving and driver education for younger teens.
  • Intermediate License: Includes restrictions such as limits on nighttime driving and cell phone use.
  • Full License: Available at age 16.

These steps are designed to reduce crash risk as teens gain experience.

  • Always wear a seat belt.
  • Avoid distractions, including cell phones.
  • Obey speed limits and slow down for conditions.
  • Never drive impaired or ride with an impaired driver.
  • Parents and caregivers should set clear rules and lead by example.

Safe habits start early. Helping young drivers build safe skills saves lives.