North Dakota work permit: the temporary restricted license
By Road Ready Safety · Checked against North Dakota law on
Short answer
A temporary restricted license, also called a work permit, lets a suspended driver drive for work, school or essential needs at set days and times. You have to be 18 or older, and you have to serve part of the suspension with no driving first. Apply to NDDOT on form SFN 2254.
- Who can apply
- Suspended drivers 18 and older
- Covers
- Work, education, essential needs
- Form
- SFN 2254
- Not available for
- Commercial vehicles or drivers under 18
What is a temporary restricted license?
NDDOT describes it as "a restricted license issued to persons whose driving privileges have been suspended or revoked for certain offenses." It authorizes driving a non-commercial vehicle for work, for education, or for essential life maintenance needs.
It limits you to specific days and times.
Who can't get one?
- Anyone under 18
- Anyone who wants it to operate a commercial motor vehicle
Can I get one on the first day of my suspension?
No. NDDOT says that by law the driver "must serve a portion of the suspension with no type of restricted driving privileges," and the length depends on the reason for the suspension.
A points suspension at 12 points is 7 days. Ask NDDOT whether applying makes sense for a suspension that short.
How do I apply?
Fill out the TRL application, form SFN 2254, and submit it to NDDOT's Driver License Division. The phone number is 701-328-2604, answered Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9 to 3.
What if I drive outside the restrictions?
Violating the restrictions on a restricted license is on the point schedule. It's 4 points for a restricted certificate or license, and 3 points for a corrective lens restriction.
What do I need to be fully reinstated?
Serve the suspension and pay the reinstatement fee, which is $50 for a points suspension. NDDOT's online system lists your outstanding requirements.
How do I avoid needing one?
Keep your total under 12. A defensive driving course takes 3 points off once every 12 months, and it works best before you reach 12. Suspended for points explains what happens at each total.
Quick answers
Can I get a work permit with a suspended license in North Dakota?
Drivers 18 and older can apply to NDDOT for a temporary restricted license for work, education or essential needs. Part of the suspension must be served first.
What form do I need for a North Dakota work permit?
The TRL application, form SFN 2254, submitted to the NDDOT Driver License Division.
Can a driver under 18 get a temporary restricted license in North Dakota?
No. NDDOT does not grant a temporary restricted license to anyone under 18.
Sources
- NDDOT: Driver Record Services and Suspensions
- 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
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 license suspended for points: how long, and how to get it back
- Under 18 in North Dakota: your license is canceled at 6 points
- North Dakota points: the 12-point suspension and the 3-point reduction
- How to check the points on your North Dakota driving record