Motor Vehicle
Is it legal to ride in a camping trailer?
Yes, the camper must be attached by a fifth-wheel hitch. It is illegal for passengers to ride in a camper connected with a bumper hitch.
Can I pull my boat behind my camping trailer?
Yes. A maximum of two trailers may be towed. The first vehicle must have brakes. A maximum length of 75 feet is allowed.
Do I need lights on my trailer?
Yes. Tail lights , brake lights, turn signals and reflectors are required on all trailers.
How long do I have before I have to register my vehicle in North Dakota?
A nonresident must register their vehicle in North Dakota at the time residency is established, or when employment is accepted in state, whichever occurs first. Full-time students and military personnel are exempt if they display current plates of their home state on the vehicle.
Where do I go to register my motor vehicle?
Application for registration must be made to Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Division, Bismarck, or any of the 13 branch offices. You can also talk to your local state trooper. See the North Dakota Motor Vehicle Department home page.
Do I have to have proof of registration in my motor vehicle?
All North Dakota drivers must carry a registration card in the driver's compartment of the vehicle. In the case of a house-trailer or mobile home, trailer or semi-trailer, the registration card must be carried inside or on the vehicle at all times while the vehicle is being operated upon a highway in this state. The card is subject to inspection by any peace officer or highway patrol officer. Any person violating this section (NDCC 39-04-55) will be assessed a fee of $20 dollars. However, a person cited for violation of this section may not be found to have committed the violation if the person, within 48 hours after being cited, produces and displays the registration card to any peace officer or highway patrol officer.
Do I need to have two license plates on my motor vehicle?
North Dakota Century code section 39-04-11 requires two plates to be on each motor vehicle. The plates must at all times be kept free and clear of mud, ice, or snow, to be clearly visible and all number plates, markers, or evidence of registration or licensing except for the current year must be removed from the vehicle. A fee of $10 dollars will be assessed if this section is violated.
What is the tax on registering a motor vehicle?
There is no state personal property tax on automobiles in North Dakota. However, there is an excise tax of 5 percent on new and used cars purchased from dealers and private owners. Tax is based on the full price of the car, with credit for trade-in.