How Long Does It Take To Form an LLC in North Dakota?

Delina Chantel Yasmeh
Published by Delina Chantel Yasmeh | Author
Last updated: February 17, 2025
FACT CHECKED by Lou Viveros, Growth & Transition Advisor
Methodology
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The North Dakota Secretary of State reports an annual increase of 15% in new LLC registrations, signaling a consistent growth in the state's business environment and entrepreneurial activities.

Since I'm an expert in Mergers and Acquisitions, I had the opportunity to work with entrepreneurs and guide them in creating a new joint organization.

Working with our LLC specialists in the state, we've researched the LLC creation in North Dakota and the processing times for the different filing methods offered by the state.

After thoroughly examining the various LLC services in this state, we selected the top LLC formation services in North Dakota that match all of the criteria. They will ensure that your legal documents are filed accurately and on time per North Dakota laws.

Quick Summary

  • It takes up to 4 weeks to form an LLC in North Dakota by mail and 5 business days online. 
  • The North Dakota Secretary of State doesn't offer any optional expedited service due to high volume of business filings. 
  • Data from the North Dakota Secretary of State's office indicates that approximately 90% of LLC registrations are submitted online, reflecting the strong preference for online transactions among entrepreneurs in the state.
  • I’ve assisted several clients to form an LLC in North Dakota and learned that it is best to apply during the start of the business week, with all the documents intact.


What is The Fastest Way to Start an LLC in North Dakota?

Organizing files on the table

The fastest way to start an LLC in North Dakota is through online applications, since the processing is completed within 5 business days.

However, the approval time could be extended for up to 4 weeks due to the high volume of business filings [1].

Data from the North Dakota Secretary of State's office indicates that approximately 90% of LLC registrations are submitted online, reflecting the strong preference for online transactions among entrepreneurs in the state.

You can create your limited liability company online via FirstStop, the North Dakota Secretary of State's online filing website [2].

LLC Processing Time in North Dakota

The LLC processing time in North Dakota varies depending on the filing method – online or by mail.

1. Non-Expedited North Dakota LLC Processing Time By Mail (4 weeks)

My clients and colleagues have attested that standard mail filings are processed within 4 weeks, depending on the volume of application.

It costs $135 to file your domestic articles of organization by mail.

Large and small LLC owners in North Dakota can only make postal filing payments with money orders or checks payable to the Secretary of State; no cash or credit cards are accepted.

Business entities can direct their mail filing to the following physical address:

Secretary of State
State of North Dakota
600 E Boulevard Avenue Dept 108
Bismarck ND 58505-05001

2. North Dakota LLC Processing Time Online (5 business days)

Giving a document to the person

Online submissions are typically processed within 5 business days, but in my experience, it may be extended due to heavy document workloads.

Visit the state website and choose the entity type you want to register on the homepage. Follow the onscreen commands to access the articles of organization PDF form.

Fill in the details and complete the process by paying the $135 filing fee using a credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express).

"Double-check for state-specific clauses to avoid rejections in your North Dakota LLC application."

- Jon Morgan, CEO & Editor-in-Chief of Venture Smarter

Factors Influencing The Formation Timeline Of North Dakota LLCs

Showing where to sign their name

Generally, the filing times for an LLC in North Dakota fall within the established timeframe based on the method by which you filed.

However, there are several reasons that the process may be extended: 

  • Volume of applications: The main factor that could prolong the formation of an LLC in North Dakota is the volume of applications that the agency has to process.
  • Documentation issues: The process may also be delayed if you fail to submit all the necessary documents, provide inaccurate information or lacking details.
  • Weekends and holidays: Since the North Dakota Secretary of State does not typically conduct business on weekends and holidays, filings before this time may be extended for a few days.

FAQs

Where Can I Check the Status of My North Dakota LLC Formation During the Processing Period?

You can check the status of your North Dakota LLC formation during the processing period by accessing the Secretary of State's Business Record Search database.

Can a Registered Agent Expedite the Process of Forming an LLC in North Dakota?

A registered agent cannot expedite the process of forming an LLC in North Dakota since the registration of LLCs has a fix period determined by the Secretary of State's office.

Do You Need an LLC Business License in North Dakota?

You need an LLC business license in North Dakota if your company engages on selling specific merchandise and offers professional services.

References:

  1. https://sos.nd.gov/business/business-services/business-services-faqs.html
  2. https://firststop.sos.nd.gov/

About The Author

Venture Smarter | How Long Does It Take To Form an LLC in North Dakota?
Author
Delina Chantel Yasmeh, J.D./Tax LL.M, specializes in Mergers and Acquisitions at Deloitte and PwC, managing billion-dollar transactions. Educated in Accountancy at California State University and holding advanced degrees from Loyola Law School, she is highly skilled in tax law. Delina also dedicates time to pro bono work for women and children.
Learn more about our editorial policy
Venture Smarter | How Long Does It Take To Form an LLC in North Dakota?
Growth & Transition Advisor
LJ Viveros has 40 years of experience in founding and scaling businesses, including a significant sale to Logitech. He has led Market Solutions LLC since 1999, focusing on strategic transitions for global brands. A graduate of Saint Mary’s College in Communications, LJ is also a distinguished Matsushita Executive alumnus.
Learn more about our editorial policy

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