North Dakota license suspended for points: how long, and how to get it back
By Road Ready Safety · Checked against North Dakota law on
Short answer
North Dakota suspends your license when you reach 12 points. The suspension is 7 days at 12 points and 7 more days for each point above that. To get your license back you serve the time and pay a $50 reinstatement fee. Your point total is then set to 11.
- Suspension starts at
- 12 points
- Length
- 7 days for each point over 11
- Reinstatement fee
- $50
- Points afterward
- Set to 11
- Under 18
- License canceled at 6 points
How many points suspend a license in North Dakota?
Twelve. When your record reaches 12 or more, NDDOT notifies you that it intends to suspend your license, and you have the chance to ask for a hearing.
How long is the suspension?
| Point total | Suspension |
|---|---|
| 12 | 7 days |
| 13 | 14 days |
| 14 | 21 days |
| 15 | 28 days |
| 18 | 49 days |
The rule in NDCC 39-06.1-10 is 7 days for each point over 11.
How do I get my license back?
Serve the suspension and pay the reinstatement fee. NDDOT lists the fee for "Accumulation of 12 or More Points" at $50. You can pay online, by phone at 701-328-2604, or by mail to the Driver License Division, 608 E. Blvd Ave, Bismarck, ND 58505.
NDDOT's online system shows your outstanding requirements, so check it before you pay.
What is my point total afterward?
Eleven. NDCC 39-06.1-12 has the director reduce your total to 11 when you complete the suspension. The law adds that a suspension "must be ordered if that licensee's point total again reaches twelve or more points."
One point, and you're suspended again.
Will a defensive driving course stop the suspension?
No. If your record has 12 or more points when NDDOT receives your certificate, the 3-point reduction is applied after you serve the suspension.
Take the course anyway. After the suspension you're at 11, and the reduction puts you at 8.
Can I drive to work while suspended?
Maybe. NDDOT can issue a temporary restricted license, which it also calls a work permit, to drivers 18 and older. It covers work, school and essential needs. You apply on form SFN 2254, and you have to serve part of the suspension with no driving first.
What about drivers under 18?
The license is canceled at 6 points, and no work permit is available. See under 18 and points.
How do I stay out of this?
Take the course before you reach 12. At 9 or 10 points, a 3-point reduction is the margin that absorbs the next ticket. How the course works.
Quick answers
How many points does it take to suspend your license in North Dakota?
Twelve. The suspension is 7 days at 12 points and 7 more days for each additional point.
How much is the reinstatement fee in North Dakota for a points suspension?
$50, according to NDDOT. It can be paid online, by phone at 701-328-2604, or by mail.
How many points do you have after a suspension in North Dakota?
Eleven. The director reduces your point total to 11 when you complete a points suspension.
Can I get a work permit during a points suspension in North Dakota?
Drivers 18 and older can apply for a temporary restricted license on form SFN 2254. Part of the suspension must be served first.
Sources
- North Dakota Century Code 39-06.1-10: point schedule and suspension
- North Dakota Century Code 39-06.1-12: point total after a suspension
- North Dakota Century Code 39-06.1-13: reduction of point total
- NDDOT: Driver Record Services and Suspensions
- NDDOT: Driver License Points Reduction and Points Schedule
We read each source on September 29, 2026. This guide is general information, not legal advice. NDDOT applies any point reduction, and your court handles an election in lieu of points. See a mistake? Email info@roadreadysafety.com.
More North Dakota guides
- North Dakota points: the 12-point suspension and the 3-point reduction
- How to check the points on your North Dakota driving record
- How long do points stay on your license in North Dakota?
- Under 18 in North Dakota: your license is canceled at 6 points