Renewing Your CDL

When Do You Need to Renew?

The North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) adheres to a four-year renewal term for all commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) based on birthday. So, for example, if you were born on May 24th and you obtained a CDL in 2005, your next renewal date would be May 24th, 2009.

Renewal Process

You should receive a renewal notice in the mail about four weeks before expiration. To renew, you must visit any automated (full-service) Driver License site location, where you'll be asked to take a new eye exam. You can do this on-site or provide an exam statement from a state-approved optometrist. If you choose your own optometrist, the eye exam must take place within six months of renewing. You may be asked to get a new medical exam.

There is also a $15 renewal fee.

When you renew, you may choose to upgrade your license class or add endorsements. To do either of these, you'll need to take the appropriate tests and pay an additional fee for each endorsement or upgrade listed.

Hazmat Endorsement Renewal

Renewing your hazardous materials endorsement takes some effort. Before you renew, you must pass a hazmat threat assessment and hazardous material knowledge (written) test. If you fail the test, you will be allowed to renew your CDL. But you will not be allowed to transport placarded hazardous materials until you pass the exam again.

In addition, you must take another background check at a total cost of $94. Due to the amount of time it takes for background checks, you should arrange for this at least a month before your endorsement expires.

For hazmat questions you can call 1-877-429-7746.