Expired Registration in North Dakota
Motor vehicle registration is mandatory in North Dakota for all vehicles operated throughout the state. The North Dakota Department of Transportation administers all vehicle registration programs and procedures, while the North Dakota Highway Patrol ensures statewide compliance with registration laws on North Dakota roadways.
State Code Provisions in North Dakota
North Dakota's vehicle registration requirements are governed by Chapter 39-04 of the North Dakota Century Code. The primary statutory provisions address registration procedures, renewal requirements, display of registration plates, penalties for non-compliance, and enforcement mechanisms.
Registration Terms and Expiration in North Dakota
Registration Renewal System
North Dakota operates a dual registration system based on vehicle weight classification. The registration expiration date varies depending on the registered gross weight of the vehicle.
| Vehicle Type | Expiration Date | Renewal Period Begins | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles over 20,000 lbs | December 31 annually | January 1 | A commercial truck (30,000 lbs) registered April 15 expires December 31 of the same year |
| Vehicles 20,000 lbs or less | Last day of registration anniversary month | First day of anniversary month | Passenger vehicle registered in March expires March 31 each year; renewal begins April 1 |
| Motorcycles | March 31 annually | April 1 | All motorcycles expire March 31 regardless of original registration month |
Grace Period
North Dakota does not provide a grace period for expired vehicle registration. Registration for a vehicle becomes delinquent immediately upon expiration of the prior registration.
Vehicle owners can renew registration up to 60 days%20up%20to-,60%20days,-prior%20to%20their) prior to the expiration date at self-service kiosks located throughout the state without losing any time on the current registration.
Penalties for Expired Registration in North Dakota
Administrative Penalties
North Dakota does not assess specific administrative late fees for renewing expired vehicle registration. Vehicle owners who renew after the expiration date pay only the standard annual registration fee without additional penalties for late renewal. However, vehicles with expired registration may not be legally operated on public highways
Traffic Violations
Operating a motor vehicle with expired registration is a criminal violation under N.D.C.C. § 39-04-37. Law enforcement officers may issue citations to vehicle owners or operators who drive vehicles without current, valid registration displayed on the vehicle.
| Offense Classification | Maximum Fine | Maximum Imprisonment |
|---|---|---|
| Class B misdemeanor | $1,500 | 30 days |
Pursuant to N.D.C.C. § 39-04-41, any violation of Chapter 39-04 for which another penalty is not specifically provided is classified as a Class B misdemeanor. Under N.D.C.C. § 12.1-32-01, a Class B misdemeanor carries a maximum penalty of 30 days' imprisonment, a fine of $1,500, or both.
Government Agencies
North Dakota Department of Transportation
608 East Boulevard Avenue
Bismarck, ND 58505-0700
Phone: (701) 328-2500
Official Website: North Dakota DOT
North Dakota Highway Patrol
600 E Boulevard Avenue, Dept 504
Bismarck, ND 58505
Phone: (701) 328-2447
Official Website: North Dakota Highway Patrol
