You can begin the renewal process up to 180 days prior to the license expiration date. An expired license cannot be renewed. The renewal process for a Class 1 license is slightly different than the process for renewing a Class 2 license. You will need an application form.
NORTH DAKOTA RESIDENTS - Pick up an application form from your local law enforcement agency or get one from the test administrator.
NON-ND RESIDENTS - Write to the BCI, PO Box 1045, Bismarck ND 58502, or e-mail ndag@nd.gov. Make sure you include your name and mailing address.
CLASS 1 RENEWAL - To renew a valid Class 1 license, you first need to complete the testing process just as you did for your initial license. Please bear in mind that the renewal application must be submitted to the law enforcement agency within 30 days of the testing date, but the application cannot be submitted to law enforcement earlier than 180 days prior to the license expiration date. The testing requirements cannot be waived for any applicant.
CLASS 2 RENEWAL - No additional testing is required to renew a valid Class 2 license.
- Make sure you complete every question and sign the application form. If the form is not properly completed, signed and dated, it will be returned to you.
- Make sure you list ANY alcohol related offense you have been charged with, or convicted of, in your lifetime. Failure to make full disclosure will result in denial of your application.
- If you are renewing a Class 1 license, make sure you also sign and date the Authorization to Disclose Health Information form (last page stapled to the application packet). If you are renewing a Class 2 license, you only need to sign and date the Authorization form if you answer "yes" to one of the relevant questions (see the instructions on the application form).
- MAKE SURE YOU WRITE IN THE REASON YOU WANT TO RENEW THE LICENSE. Failure to do so will result in your application being returned to you and delays in processing the application.
- After you have completed any necessary testing but BEFORE you deliver your completed application form to the local law enforcement agency, you will need:
- 2-color passport photographs - write your name on the back of each photo. Check your phone book to find a local business that takes passport photos. The BCI will not accept alternative photographs or copies.
- A cashier's check or money order for $45 made payable to the ND Attorney General. Write your name on the cashier's check or money order. NO personal checks, NO joint (husband/wife) payments.
- Fingerprints are NOT required for a timely renewal.
- You must submit the completed application form to the local law enforcement agency (within 30 days of completing testing, if applicable). All application forms must be reviewed and signed by the Sheriff of the county in which the applicant resides. If the applicant lives in a city with a police department, the application also must be reviewed and signed by the Chief of Police. Applicants living within city limits should first deliver the completed packet to the Chief of Police. The Chief will forward the application to the county Sheriff. Rural applicants may deliver the application directly to the sheriff in the county of residence.
- ND Residents: The sheriff is responsible for submitting all applications to the BCI. DO NOT submit it yourself.
- Non-residents: You must obtain the approval and signatures of the law enforcement agency(ies) in the city/county in which you reside. If directed by your local law enforcement agency, you may submit the complete application packet to the BCI. Ensure correct postage - postage due items are not accepted.
It takes about 90 days (12 weeks) from the date you deliver a SATISFACTORILY COMPLETED application or renewal application form to the local law enforcement agency. By law,
- The Chief of Police has 10 working days (2 weeks) to process the application (plus mailing time);
- The Sheriff has 30 days to process the application (plus mailing time); and
- The BCI has 45 days (plus mailing time).
If your form is incomplete or missing an attachment, it will be returned to you. If you satisfy the criteria established by law, your renewed license will be issued within 90 days; if not, you will receive a denial letter.