North Dakota CDL Resources

North Dakota Department of Transportation — Motor Vehicle

This page collects official CDL resources for North Dakota: the state licensing agency, CDL handbook, testing locations, and renewal information. All links go directly to official North Dakota government sources. Requirements change — always verify current procedures directly with the North Dakota Department of Transportation — Motor Vehicle.

Official resources to check first

North Dakota CDL resources are managed by NDDOT (dot.nd.gov). Verify current requirements at dot.nd.gov.

CDL Licensing · North Dakota Department of Transportation — Motor Vehicle North Dakota CDL — North Dakota Department of Transportation — Motor Vehicle https://www.dot.nd.gov/driver/commercial/commercial-driver-license
State Driver Licensing Agency · North Dakota Department of Transportation — Motor Vehicle North Dakota Department of Transportation — Motor Vehicle — Main Website https://www.dot.nd.gov/driver/

No direct CDL handbook link is listed for North Dakota yet. Visit the North Dakota Department of Transportation — Motor Vehicle website and look for a "CDL Manual," "Commercial Driver Handbook," or similar link.

CDL licensing through North Dakota DOT

North Dakota CDL applicants apply through the North Dakota Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division. Knowledge tests and CLP issuance are handled at ND DOT driver's license offices. The CLP must be held at least 14 days before the CDL skills test. New Class A and Class B applicants must complete ELDT at an FMCSA-listed provider before the skills test. North Dakota uses both state and authorized third-party CDL examiners. Verify current testing locations and scheduling at dot.nd.gov.

North Dakota CDL and energy transport

North Dakota's Bakken oil region in the western part of the state generates significant HazMat and oilfield service transport activity. CDL holders transporting crude oil, produced water, or oilfield chemicals must hold a current HazMat endorsement including TSA clearance. North Dakota also has significant grain hauling activity. The state's spring weight restrictions (road weight postings during spring thaw) are relevant for CDL holders operating heavy loads — exceeding posted weight limits can result in fines and CDL record consequences. Verify CDL requirements at dot.nd.gov.

Before you apply or renew

These steps apply regardless of state. Verify each requirement directly with the North Dakota Department of Transportation — Motor Vehicle before beginning the application process.

  • Verify your CDL class (A, B, or C) matches the vehicles you intend to operate.
  • Check whether you need endorsements (HazMat, Tanker, Passenger, School Bus, Doubles/Triples) and confirm state testing requirements for each.
  • Confirm you hold a valid DOT medical certificate (MCSA-5876) and that it is current before applying or renewing.
  • If you are a new CDL applicant, confirm whether ELDT (Entry-Level Driver Training) applies to your situation — see the ELDT overview.
  • Gather required documents — identity, residency, and any existing license — before visiting a testing location.
  • Confirm current fees and testing appointment availability directly with the North Dakota Department of Transportation — Motor Vehicle.

Medical certificate

CDL holders operating in interstate commerce must carry a current DOT medical certificate issued by a certified medical examiner on the FMCSA National Registry. North Dakota state requirements for submitting or updating medical certification vary — check the North Dakota Department of Transportation — Motor Vehicle website for the current procedure.

Medical Examiner Search · Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) FMCSA National Registry — Find a Certified Medical Examiner https://nationalregistry.fmcsa.dot.gov/

For North Dakota-specific medical certificate submission procedures, start at the North Dakota Department of Transportation — Motor Vehicle website .

ELDT — Entry-Level Driver Training

Federal ELDT requirements apply to new Class A and Class B CDL applicants and to certain endorsements. Training must be completed at a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). The North Dakota Department of Transportation — Motor Vehicle does not administer ELDT — training is completed at a registered provider before you schedule the skills test.

Federal references

Important: CDL List collects links to official North Dakota government resources as a reference. We do not maintain state CDL rules, forms, or fees. Requirements change — always verify current procedures directly with the North Dakota Department of Transportation — Motor Vehicle before taking any action.

Last reviewed: May 29, 2026. Links go to official state agency websites. Verify that your browser shows the official state government domain before submitting any forms or payments.