Department of Transportation
608 E. Boulevard Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58505-0780
701.328.2725
TITLE AND PROOF OF OWNERSHIP
Motor vehicles, motorcycles, mopeds, OHVs, snowmobiles, travel (camper) trailers, and trailers must be titled, unless exempt. See North Dakota’s sample title here. Trailers, semitrailers, or farm trailers 1,500 lbs. gross weight or less not used for hire or commercial use, or used to transport recreational vehicles or boats not for hire or commercial use are exempt, unless transporting race cars or recreational vehicles used in competitive events. Vehicles owned by the U.S. government, vehicles moved solely by human or animal power, car dollies, combine trailers, converter gears, pup trailers, job site trailers, implements of husbandry, special mobile equipment, self-propelled wheelchairs or tricycles, electric bicycles, other vehicles not required to be registered, and boats are exempt.
Manufactured homes are titled, unless considered real property – one title issued regardless of the number of units. If considered real property, an Affidavit of Use for a Manufactured Home (53658) must be submitted with a certified copy of the Affidavit of Affixation and the title. The owner will receive a Manufactured Home Conversion Confirmation.
Application for Title-Application for Certificate of Title & Registration (2872)* is submitted to the Motor Vehicle Division in Bismarck or any Motor Vehicle Site. Fee $5.00. There is a $1.50 abandoned vehicle disposal fee due upon initial application for North Dakota title, with the exception of manufactured homes, motorcycles, mopeds, snowmobiles, OHVs, low-speed vehicles, park model trailers, and trailers. Make checks payable to NDDOT. Allow 4-6 weeks to receive title. Quick title service is not available.
There is an online Title Status Search available.
*
Instructions for filling out application are found online.
Electronic Signatures-Allowed on the following forms: SFNs 2475, 2479, 2872, 2877, 2878, 2883, 2886, 3004, 10539, 16921, 17105, 18085, 18609, 19156, 51628, 52908, 53330, 53612, 54306, 54340, 54397, 59183, 60399, 60467, 61273, 61274.
Proof of Ownership:
New Vehicles-Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin.
Used Vehicles-Certificate of Title.
Non-Title Issuing Jurisdiction-Certificate of Registration along with proper assignment of ownership. A Vehicle Statement of Ownership (2903) may be used when no MCO, title, or bill of sale were issued.
Government Surplus Vehicles-U.S. Government Certificate to Obtain Title to a Vehicle (SF97-1). Military tanks cannot be titled.
Foreign Vehicles-Foreign ownership documents along with bills of sale showing proper chain of ownership; an Indemnifying Affidavit (60662); a Collection Receipt or Informal Entry (CBP 368), an Entry and Manifest of Merchandise Free of Duty, Carrier’s Certificate and Release (CPB 7523), a Declaration for Free Entry of Unaccompanied Articles (CBP 3299), a Declaration for Free Entry of Returned American Products (CBP 3311), an Entry/Immediate Delivery (CBP 3461), a Customs Declaration (6059B), an Entry Summary (CBP 7501), or an Inward Cargo Manifest for Vessel, Ferry, Train, Car, Vehicle, Etc. (CBP 7533); and EPA and DOT letters of compliance. Military Registration and Certificate of Title of Motor Vehicle (DD 430) is accepted from military personnel. English translation required for documents written in a foreign language.
Surrender of Proof of Ownership-Required. Titles are not returned to state of issue; however, North Dakota provides data to and inquiries NMVTIS prior to issuing titles.
Insufficient Evidence of Ownership-An NMVTIS Vehicle History Check is completed to verify no title or ownership record exists. If a title or ownership record is found in any state, the untitled vehicle process cannot be completed. If no record of a previous title is found in any state, the untitled vehicle process may begin upon presentation of the results of the NMVTIS Vehicle History Check, photo of the VIN plate, a notarized Seller’s Certificate and Vehicle Bill of Sale (2888), a Vehicle Statement of Ownership (2903), a Certificate of Vehicle Inspection (2486), an Application for Certificate of Title & Registration (2872), title fees, and current photos of the front, side, and rear of the vehicle.
Special Titles-None.
Title Brands-Brands are shown in the upper right corner of the North Dakota title beneath the Odometer section. Brands from out of state are forwarded onto North Dakota titles. North Dakota will not accept titles from another jurisdiction that are branded Junk, Unrepairable, Non-Rebuildable, Certificate of Destruction, Dismantled, Parts Only, or any other similar notation. Brands issued: Salvage Vehicle, Previously Damaged, Previously Salvaged, This is a Duplicate Certificate and May be Subject to the Rights of a Person Under the Original Certificate, and Odometer brands.
Stolen Vehicle/Motorboat-The registration of a vehicle that has been reported as stolen will be suspended. Vehicle may not be reregistered until MVD is notified of the recovery of the vehicle. An owner who has filed an affidavit of theft must immediately notify the department of the recovery of such vehicle.
A Law Enforcement Authorization to Retitle a Stolen Vehicle (62266) must be submitted when an insurer has paid a claim to the owner of a stolen vehicle and the insurer wishes to retitle the vehicle.
The Game & Fish Department must be notified of the theft or recovery of a motorboat within 15 days.
Salvage Vehicle-A vehicle damaged in excess of 75% of its retail value1. Must surrender the title2 with a $5.00 fee within 10 days. A Salvage Certificate of Title will be issued.
Within 15 days after the destruction of any OHV, snowmobile, or low-speed vehicle, written notice must be given to MVD3.
1
Glass damage and hail damage are excluded.
2
When an insurer is unable to obtain the title because the payment of the claim did not satisfy all liens of record, the MVD may cancel the old title and issue a new certificate to the insurer free and clear of all liens and claims of ownership. If the transferee is a licensed motor vehicle dealer that took possession of a vehicle at the request of the insurer and vehicle has been in dealer’s possession for more than 30 days, two written attempts by certified mail may be submitted in lieu of title.
3
The Game & Fish Department must be notified for motorboats.
Rebuilt Vehicle-When a salvage vehicle has been rebuilt, the vehicle must be inspected by a registered motor vehicle repair business. Trailers, travel trailers, OHVs, and snowmobiles are exempt inspection. Bills of sale and/or titles for major parts must accompany the Application for Certificate of Title & Registration (2872) and the Certificate of Vehicle Inspection (2486). Title and registration fees apply. Title will be issued with the brand “Previously Salvaged” and a notation that damage disclosure information is available from the MVD.
Abandoned Vehicle-A motor vehicle that has remained for more than 48 hours on public property illegally or on private property without consent of the owner. Any person who abandons a motor vehicle is guilty of a Class A misdemeanor. When an abandoned vehicle is more than seven model years of age, is lacking vital component parts, and does not display a valid license plate, it is immediately eligible for disposition and is not subject to notification, reclamation, or title provisions.
Within 10 days of taking possession of the abandoned motor vehicle, notice must be sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the owner and any lienholders of their right to reclaim the vehicle within 30 days. Notice must state the end date of the 30-day period. If the identity and address of owners and all lienholders cannot be determined, notice must be published once in a newspaper in the area where vehicle was abandoned or on the official website for the unit that initiated the impound process for a minimum of 30 days. Commercial towing companies must provide notice to law enforcement in the jurisdiction from which the vehicle was towed within 12 hours of tow. Unclaimed abandoned motor vehicles are sold at public auction. License plates must be removed. The purchaser is given a receipt to title and register the vehicle free and clear of all liens and claims of ownership. Any remaining proceeds are held for the owner or lienholder for 90 days and then sent to the North Dakota Abandoned Property Office.
Within 15 days after the abandonment of any OHV, snowmobile, or low-speed vehicle, written notice must be given to MVD*.
* The Game & Fish Department must be notified for motorboats.
Title Only-Issued. A Statement of Fact (60689) must be completed.
Duplicate Title-An Application for Duplicate Credentials (61982) must be submitted along with a $5.00 fee; $10.00 to remove or add a lien. A Purchaser’s Certification and Application (2475) must be submitted if lien is to be removed, refinanced, or when adding a new lien.
Corrected Title-A notarized Statement of Error, Correction or Defacement (2964) must be submitted. An Odometer Correction (60806) must be submitted if correcting a mileage error on the title. Title fee applies.
Odometer Disclosure Statement-Required upon transfer of ownership. Vehicles with a model year of 2010 or older, trailers and other vehicles without odometer devices, trucks over 16,000 lbs. GVWR, and low-speed vehicles are exempt. A secure Reassignment/Odometer Disclosure (18773) may be used.
VIN Inspection-Required on rebuilt vehicles. A Certificate of Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Inspection (61999) must be completed by a qualified business when a VIN inspection is required. An Application for ND Assigned VIN (60467) is used when a VIN has been attached to a vehicle.
LIEN LAW
To perfect a lien, an Application for Certificate of Title & Registration (2872) or a title with lien noted thereon must be submitted. Copy of lien instrument is not required. A security interest in a motor vehicle is not valid against subsequent purchasers unless shown on the title.
Lien Expiration-Liens do not expire; they are valid until evidence of satisfaction is submitted.
Responsible Party for Filing Lien-The purchaser is responsible for filing a lien on a vehicle; however, lien must be shown on forms sent to the MVD if the dealer is knowledgeable about the lien.
Assignment of Lien-Lienholder releases their lien on the title and submits the title with an application for title and title fee.
Storage and Repairman’s Lien-Vehicles acquired through storage or repair must be titled prior to being sold. A Request for Personal Information (51269) must be submitted with a $3.00 fee. If a lienholder is listed on the title record, a lien release is required. A certified letter detailing costs accrued must be mailed to the record owner. If vehicle was left by someone other than the titled owner, a certified letter must also be sent to the titled owner. Application for title may be made after 30 days have passed without response. An Indemnifying Affidavit (60662) must be completed by the storage or repair facility. A copy of the certified letter and the returned receipt or the undelivered returned letter must accompany the application for title.
Release of Lien-Lienholder must release their lien within 10 days after demand, and in any event within 30 days of satisfaction, and deliver it to the next lienholder shown on the title, who shall deliver the title, release, and title fee to the MVD within 30 days. If there are no other lienholders, title is delivered to the owner. A Release of Lien by Legal Owner (2876) may also be used.
Uniform Commercial Code-Liens on non-titled vehicles are processed through Central Indexing (UCC) of the North Dakota Secretary of State, 701.328.3662, 800.352.0867, option 5, fax 701.328.4214, so***@**.gov. All filings and search requests must be made online.
Lien Records on File-Archived with the Motor Vehicle Division in Bismarck.
Title on Which a Lien is Shown-Mailed to the lienholder.
Electronic Lien & Title (ELT) Program-None.
TRANSFER OF TITLE
Transfer is accomplished by assignment of title. All liens shown on the title must be released. If title is in the name of a company, it must be countersigned. If title is not available for transfer, a Seller’s Certificate and Vehicle Bill of Sale (2888) may be used. Seller must deliver the assigned title to the purchaser within 15 days. The purchaser must transfer title within 30 days to avoid penalty. The purchaser may operate the vehicle for up to five days without visible evidence of registration. The purchaser of an off-highway vehicle, snowmobile, or low-speed vehicle must notify the MVD of the transfer of ownership within 15 days*.
*
The Game & Fish Department must be notified for motorboats.
Damage Disclosure Statement-The Damage Disclosure Statement on the Application for Certificate of Title & Registration (2872) or a Damage/Salvage Disclosure Statement (18609) must be submitted for all motor vehicles less than nine model years old. Motor vehicle body damage* disclosure requirements apply to the transfer of title on vehicles with a current calendar model year and those manufactured in the seven years before the current calendar year. Trailers, low-speed vehicles, mopeds, OHVs, and snowmobiles are exempt.
A person repairing, replacing parts, or performing bodywork on a motor vehicle of a current calendar model year or the seven calendar years prior to the current calendar year must provide a statement to the owner when the motor vehicle has sustained damage requiring disclosure.
*
Damage which equals or exceeds $10,000 or 25% of the pre-damage retail value of the motor vehicle, and does not include body or structural modifications, normal wear and tear, glass damage, hail damage, or items of normal maintenance and repair.
Add/Remove a Party from a Title-The title must be assigned as per joint ownership rules and the remaining party(ies) complete the Purchaser’s Certification and Application section of the title. Title fees apply. The removal of a joint tenant from a title without monetary consideration may be tax exempt.
Joint Ownership-If names are joined by the word “or,” either owner may sign to transfer ownership. If names are joined by the word “and,” both owners must sign.
Transfer Upon Death-If title is issued as joint tenants with rights of survivorship (JTWROS), the survivor must present a copy of the death certificate. For estates under $50,000, an Affidavit for Collection of Personal Property of the Decedent (2916) may be completed. In all other cases, a certified copy of the personal representative papers or an order of the court must accompany the title.
Transfer on Death (TOD)-There is no procedure for adding a beneficiary to a title.
Notarization of Title-Not required.
Power of Attorney-A general Power of Attorney may be used to appoint an agent to act on behalf of the owner when odometer certification is not required; otherwise, a Secure Power of Attorney is required. A Secure POA is effective only if the original title is lost or held by the lienholder.
Limited Assignment Space-When applying for title on an out-of-state title with no further assignment space available, a secure odometer statement is required along with the title to affect transfer.
When applying for title on a North Dakota title with no further assignment space available, an Assignment and Warranty of Title (2877) or a Dealer Re-Assignment and Warranty of Title (2878) may be submitted with the transfer. A Reassignment/Odometer Disclosure (18773) must be used when odometer disclosure is required. This applies to both dealers and individuals. If the last transfer is to a dealer, the dealer may complete the Purchaser’s Certification and Application on the back of the title.
REPOSSESSION
A secured party may take possession of a vehicle without judicial process if it proceeds without a breach of the peace. A notarized Repossession Affidavit (2880) must be completed by the lienholder. The North Dakota title must be signed by the repossessor as seller if title is transferred to a new owner. If the title is transferred into the repossessor’s name, the repossessor must sign as buyer and complete the odometer information. A lien release is required from any additional lienholder(s) identified on the title.
Above repossession information also applies to out-of-state lienholders with North Dakota titles.
REGISTRATION
All vehicles and travel trailers used on the highways must be registered. See North Dakota’s sample registration here. OHVs (includes snowmobiles) must be registered unless used exclusively on private land or in organized track racing events. All motorboats are registered. Motor vehicles owned by the U.S. government; trailers, semitrailers, or farm trailers 1,500 lbs. or less not used for hire or commercial use, or used to transport recreational vehicles or boats not for hire or commercial use; car dollies; combine trailers; job site trailers; farm tractors; and special mobile equipment, road rollers, and other road construction or maintenance machinery that cannot be operated on highways and streets in a normal operating manner are exempt.
Application for Registration-Made to the Motor Vehicle Division in Bismarck or any Motor Vehicle Site*. Registration must be carried in the vehicle to avoid penalty.
*
Motorboats are registered through the Game & Fish Department. New and used motorboats may be registered online.
International Registration Plan (IRP)-Administered through the Motor Vehicle Division, Motor Carrier Section, 608 E. Boulevard Avenue, Suite 103, Bismarck, ND 58505-0791, 701.328.1287, fax 701.328.3500, mo**********@**.gov.
Nonresidents-A nonresident who is gainfully employed in North Dakota must purchase a temporary registration for a minimum of six months and have current home state registration. Properly registered nonresident motorboats are subject to North Dakota registration if operated on North Dakota waters for more than 90 days. Motorboats not licensed in North Dakota must pay a $15.00 ANS fee for each calendar year and display an ANS sticker on the watercraft. Nonresident registered OHVs used more than 30 consecutive days in North Dakota must be registered in North Dakota. Nonresident OHVs and snowmobiles must purchase an out-of-state permit.
Planned Non-Operation-Vehicles that are stored or not operated on the roadways of North Dakota do not require registration. Plates may be retained. Registration must be cancelled prior to cancelling liability insurance.
Registration Only-Titling is a prerequisite to registration.
Renewal-Reminders are sent to vehicle owners. Renewal may be made by mail, in person, or online. Motorboats may be renewed online.
Expiration Date-Passenger vehicles, motor homes, pickup trucks not exceeding 20,000 lbs., and trucks with a gross weight of 10,000 lbs. or less are registered on a monthly staggered basis. Motorcycles expire March 31. Low-speed vehicles expire March 31 of odd-numbered years. Snowmobiles expire September 30 of odd-numbered years. Motorboats expire December 31 in 3-year cycles. OHVs expire December 31 of even-numbered years. All other vehicles expire December 31.
Special Permits-A 75-Day Registration Permit is issued by dealers or MVD to operate vehicle pending registration. A Resident 30-Day Registration Permit may be purchased online to operate a vehicle pending registration. May also be issued at a Motor Vehicle Site for a small fee. A 10-Day Temporary Registration is issued for operation of motorboats while application is processed. An Out-of-State OHV Permit allows access to public lands and OHV trails for one year from date of purchase. Fee $10.00. An Out-of-State Snowmobile Permit allows access to public lands and state snowmobile trails and accessible bodies of water for one year from date of purchase. Fee $25.00. A Demonstration Permit is used by dealers for demonstration only. Fee $5.00 for 30-day trailer intransit permit, $10.00 for 72-hour demo permit, or $50.00 for 20-day demo permit. A 30-Day Drive-Out Permit is issued to nonresidents by dealers, MVD, or North Dakota Highway Patrol for a fee of $5.00. A 72 Hour Trip Permit is available for $20.00. A Non-Resident Temporary Registration may be issued to nonresidents gainfully employed in North Dakota, driving vehicles not registered in North Dakota. There is a $10.00 permit fee in addition to following fees: Fee is $60.00 for 6 months or $120.00 for 12 months for passenger vehicles, pickups, vans, and trucks; $30.00 for 6 months or $60.00 for 12 months for motorcycles; for trucks/ combination 20,001 lbs. and over:
| Weight | 6-Months | 12-Months |
| 20,001-42,000 lbs. | $220.00 | $440.00 |
| 42,001-62,000 lbs. | $380.00 | $760.00 |
| 62,001-82,000 lbs. | $530.00 | $1,060.00 |
| 82,001-105,500 lbs. | $900.00 | $1,800.00 |
Military Registration-Active-duty military personnel stationed out of state are exempt excise tax by submitting a Military Claim for Tax Exemption (17147) along with their application for title. Resident military personnel stationed out of state for more than one year may relicense a motor vehicle without payment of a fee or penalty for the intervening years the vehicle was not licensed, provided an affidavit that the vehicle was not used is submitted.
Nonresident military personnel and their dependents stationed in North Dakota are exempt registration in North Dakota if vehicle is properly registered in home state. Nonresident military personnel stationed in North Dakota may transfer title and registration to a leased vehicle without payment of Motor Vehicle Excise Tax. Mobile homes owned and used as living quarters of a nonresident on active military duty in North Dakota are exempt from taxation.
Resident qualified disabled veterans are exempt Motor Vehicle Excise Tax and registration fees on no more than two vehicles* not exceeding 26,000 lbs. Purple Heart recipients are entitled to one distinctive plate for a motor vehicle not exceeding 26,000 lbs. registered gross weight exempt from registration and plate fees. Former POWs are exempt Motor Vehicle Excise Tax on no more than two vehicles not exceeding 20,000 lbs. gross weight. Personalized gold star plates and personalized POW plates are issued exempt from the personalized plate fee.
*
Includes a mobile home and one aircraft.
Plates-Two plates issued; one plate for trailers, motorcycles, house trailers, OHVs, and apportioned vehicles. Plates remain with the owner upon sale of vehicle, except snowmobiles, OHVs, prorated trucks and trailers, antiques, collectors, DAVs, POWs, and government vehicles.
Plates-Dealer’s-Used for demonstration, delivery, and personal use. Dealer license fee includes one dealer plate. Additional plates are $20.00 per plate for low-speed vehicle dealers and new/used motor vehicle dealers, $10.00 for mobile/manufactured home dealers, motor-powered recreational vehicle dealers, and trailer dealers. Out-of-State Dealer’s Plates-Same rules apply.
Plates-Manufacturer’s-Fee $150.00. Manufacturer must be located in North Dakota to use plates for testing. May be used on demonstration vehicles, if solely used for that purpose.
Plates-Transporter’s-Used for transporting nonregistered vehicles. Fee $65.00 per year for license plate and registration card.
Plates-Nonresident-Not required to surrender out-of-state plates.
TAXES
Excise Tax-A 5.0% motor vehicle excise tax is assessed on the full purchase price of a motor vehicle purchased or acquired for use in North Dakota. New vehicles imported from another country are subject to excise tax on the purchase price; or on market value if used. Credit is allowed for trade in. Credit is allowed for taxes paid to another state that grants reciprocity to North Dakota residents. New residents are exempt if vehicle was registered in another state 30 days prior to moving to North Dakota. Enrolled members of any federally recognized Native American tribe are exempt excise tax by submitting a Tribal Claim for Tax Exemption (18085). Vehicles exempt from registration, interstate carrier vehicles, used mobile homes, vehicles equipped for the physically disabled, sales to tax exempt entities, and gifts between immediate family members are exempt from excise tax. Other exemptions are listed on the Purchaser’s Certification and Application (2475).
Excise tax is imposed at 5.0% of the purchase price of any aircraft required to be registered in North Dakota; 3.0% on agricultural aircraft. Credit is allowed for trade-in. Credit is allowed for sales, use, or excise taxes paid in a reciprocal state.
Failure to pay tax, interest, penalty, and any costs that accrue is a lien in favor of North Dakota on all property and rights to property belonging to the taxpayer.
Sales/Use Tax-Motor vehicles subject to excise tax are exempt. Motorboats are assessed 5.0% on the full purchase price at time of acquisition or entry into North Dakota for storage or use. Credit is allowed for taxed paid in another state. Casual sales are exempt.
A 3.0% sales tax is imposed on the gross receipts of all sales at retail of manufactured homes used for residential or business purposes. Used mobile homes are exempt.
Remote sellers with gross sales delivered into North Dakota that exceed $100,000 in the current or previous calendar year must obtain a permit and collect tax.
Property Tax-Motor vehicles, trailers, and semitrailers for which a title is required are exempt personal property taxes. Mobile homes are taxed on the assessed value. The owner of each mobile home must file an application for mobile home tax permit with the director of tax equalization in the county in which the mobile home is located within 10 days after acquisition, moving, or entry into North Dakota. A mobile home tax permit is issued upon payment of tax. Title may not be issued until a certified statement is received that tax has been paid. Mobile/manufactured homes permanently attached to a foundation and assessed as real property are exempt. Tax is due on January 10th of each year or 10 days after purchase or move to North Dakota. Penalty and interest apply if tax is not paid within 40 days of due date.
Heavy Vehicle Use Tax-Trucks with a gross weight of 55,000 lbs. or more must have an IRS Form 2290 filed annually and submitted with the application for registration.
REGISTRATION/PLATE FEES
Registration Fees-An Unsatisfied Judgment fee of $1.00 applies to all vehicles except trailers and OHVs. An additional annual Road Use Fee of $120.00 applies to all electric vehicles; $50.00 for plug-in hybrid vehicles or $20.00 for electric motorcycles. The following are annual fees, unless stated otherwise. There is an online fee calculator.
| Antique vehicle (permanent) | $10.00 |
| Collector vehicle (permanent) | $60.00 |
| Collector Snowmobile | $0.00 |
| Low-speed vehicle (2 years) | $20.00 |
| Motorcycle and moped | $25.00 |
| Trailer | $20.00* |
| Permanent trailer | $150.00 |
| Unconventional vehicle | $50.00 |
| OHV (2 years) | $20.00 |
| Safety fee required on each OHV sold by a dealer | $5.00 |
| Nonresident public trails and lands access permit | $10.00 |
| Snowmobile (2 years) | $50.00 |
| Snowmobile safety fee (required on each snowmobile sold by a dealer) | $5.00 |
| Snowmobile nonresident public trails and lands access permit | $25.00 |
*
Utility (private) or recreational trailers are not required to be registered may be issued a trailer plate when trailer is travelling out of state. Fee $5.00.
Passenger Fees-Based on year first registered, not model year.
| Gross Weight (lbs.) | 1-6 Years | 7-9 Years | 10-12 Years | 13 Years & Older |
| 3,199 or less | $73.00 | $65.00 | $57.00 | $49.00 |
| 3,200-4,499 | $93.00 | $81.00 | $69.00 | $57.00 |
| 4,500-4,999 | $111.00 | $94.00 | $79.00 | $63.00 |
| 5,000-5,999 | $142.00 | $120.00 | $98.00 | $76.00 |
| 6,000-6,999 | $175.00 | $146.00 | $117.00 | $89.00 |
| 7,000-7,999 | $208.00 | $172.00 | $137.00 | $102.00 |
| 8,000-8,999 | $241.00 | $199.00 | $157.00 | $115.00 |
| 9,000 & over | $274.00 | $225.00 | $177.00 | $128.00 |
Motor Homes-Use passenger fee schedule. Fees are based on 40% of the actual weight, but not less than 4,000 lbs.
Pickup Fees-Based on year first registered, not model year. Registered gross weight must be twice the shipping weight at minimum. Registered gross weight must include the total weight of the vehicle and any load transported on or by the vehicle.
| Gross Weight (lbs.) | 1-6 Years | 7-9 Years | 10-12 Years | 13 Years & Older |
| 6,400 or less | $73.00 | $65.00 | $57.00 | $49.00 |
| 6,401-9,000 | $93.00 | $81.00 | $69.00 | $57.00 |
| 9,001-10,000 | $111.00 | $94.00 | $79.00 | $63.00 |
| 10,001-12,000 | $142.00 | $120.00 | $98.00 | $76.00 |
| 12,001-14,000 | $175.00 | $146.00 | $117.00 | $89.00 |
| 14,001-16,000 | $208.00 | $172.00 | $137.00 | $102.00 |
| 16,001-18,000 | $241.00 | $199.00 | $157.00 | $115.00 |
| 18,001-20,000 | $274.00 | $225.00 | $177.00 | $128.00 |
Truck Fees-Based on year first registered, not model year. Includes school buses, buses for hire, church or charity buses, cargo vans, wreckers, tank mounted vehicles, and trucks or combination trucks and trailers.
| Gross Weight (lbs.) | 1-6 Years | 7-9 Years | 10-12 Years | 13-19 Years | 20 Years & Older | |
| 4,000 | $71.00 | $58.00 | $53.00 | $50.00 | $49.00 | |
| 6,000 | $76.00 | $63.00 | $57.00 | $51.00 | $50.00 | |
| 8,000 | $81.00 | $68.00 | $61.00 | $52.00 | $51.00 | |
| 10,000 | $86.00 | $73.00 | $65.00 | $54.00 | $53.00 | |
| 12,000 | $91.00 | $78.00 | $69.00 | $56.00 | $55.00 | |
| 14,000 | $96.00 | $83.00 | $73.00 | $59.00 | $58.00 | |
| 16,000 | $101.00 | $88.00 | $77.00 | $62.00 | $61.00 | |
| 18,000 | $106.00 | $93.00 | $81.00 | $64.00 | $63.00 | |
| 20,000 | $109.00 | $96.00 | $83.00 | $65.00 | $64.00 | |
| Gross Weight (lbs.) | 1-7 Years | 8-12 Years | 13 Years & Older | |||
| 22,000 | $139.00 | $113.00 | $100.00 | |||
| 26,000 | $191.00 | $161.00 | $145.00 | |||
| 30,000 | $252.00 | $210.00 | $188.00 | |||
| 34,000 | $318.00 | $263.00 | $235.00 | |||
| 38,000 | $379.00 | $312.00 | $278.00 | |||
| 42,000 | $440.00 | $361.00 | $320.00 | |||
| 46,000 | $501.00 | $409.00 | $363.00 | |||
| 50,000 | $562.00 | $458.00 | $406.00 | |||
| 54,000 | $632.00 | $516.00 | $457.00 | |||
| 58,000 | $693.00 | $565.00 | $500.00 | |||
| 62,000 | $755.00 | $614.00 | $543.00 | |||
| 66,000 | $815.00 | $662.00 | $586.00 | |||
| 70,000 | $876.00 | $711.00 | $628.00 | |||
| 74,000 | $937.00 | $760.00 | $671.00 | |||
| 78,000 | $998.00 | $809.00 | $714.00 | |||
| 82,000 | $1,059.00 | $858.00 | $757.00 | |||
| 86,000 | $1,182.00 | $963.00 | $844.00 | |||
| 90,000 | $1,304.00 | $1,067.00 | $931.00 | |||
| 94,000 | $1,426.00 | $1,172.00 | $1,018.00 | |||
| 98,000 | $1,548.00 | $1,277.00 | $1,106.00 | |||
| 102,000 | $1,670.00 | $1,381.00 | $1,193.00 | |||
| 105,500 | $1,792.00 | $1,486.00 | $1,280.00 | |||
The 2024 farm truck fee schedule is found here.
Boats-Registered through North Dakota Game & Fish Department, 100 N. Bismarck Expressway, Bismarck, ND 58501-5095, 701.328.6300. In addition to the registration fees below, a $15.00 Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) fee is charged. Motorboats not licensed in North Dakota must pay a $15.00 ANS fee for each calendar year and display an ANS sticker on the watercraft. The following are 3-year fees. Fees are prorated.
| Motorboats less than 16 feet in length & all canoes | $18.00 |
| Motorboats 16 to 20 feet in length | $36.00 |
| Motorboats 20 feet in length and over | $45.00 |
Personalized Plates-A Personalized Plate Request (53612) must be submitted with a $25.00 fee*. This is an annual fee (biannual for OHVs). Personalized plates can be transferred.
*
There is a $100.00 one-time fee for antique vehicles or collector plates.
Reduction of Fees-None.
Refunds/Credits-Refunds issued when vehicle has been improperly registered, destroyed, or returned to the manufacturer. For permanently destroyed vehicles, an Affidavit for Refund of License Fee of Permanently Destroyed Vehicle (2889) must be submitted with the license plates, registration card, and title. Refund is equal to the unused portion of the fee paid, less $5.00.
An Application and Claim for Motor Vehicle Tax Refund (2883) is used for overpayments, payments made in error, refund of tax on returned vehicles. Application must be made within three years of payment of the tax.
Property tax refunds are available for mobile homes demolished or destroyed beyond repair.
Credit may be applied to the registration fees for a replacement vehicle based on the number of unused months left on the registration. Credit may not extend beyond the original expiration of the registration. A credit transfer fee of $5.00 is due. Only license fees are transferable. License fee credits may be transferred to a spouse, sibling, or lineal ancestor or descendant of the transferee. There is an online Credit Calculator. Credit is allowed toward a replacement aircraft with proof from insurer that the aircraft was a total loss due to theft or destruction.
Plate Transfer Fee-$5.00; no fee for DAV plates.
Duplicate and Replacement Fees-An Application for Duplicate Credentials (61982) must be submitted with $5.00 for plates, tabs, and registration card; $3.00 for tabs and registration; or $2.00 for registration card only. Duplicate registration may be ordered online. Fee is $5.00 for duplicate OHV plate or decal. An Application for Duplicate Motor Carrier Credentials (61273) must be submitted with $3.00 for IRP decals; $5.00 for cab card or plate.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Lease Information-Same procedures and fees apply to leased vehicles as any other vehicle. A copy of the lease purchase agreement must be submitted. Title is issued in the name of the lessor and lessee. Registration is issued identifying both lessor and lessee.
Vehicles 10,000 lbs. or less leased for 12 months or more are subject to motor vehicle excise tax of 5.0% of the taxable lease price. Tax is due as of the date of first payment, option to renew, or similar provision, or as of the date of registration. Tax also applies to additional charges after the inception of the lease, i.e. excess mileage, lease buy-out payments, etc. A Lease Tax Worksheet (60399) must be submitted to show calculation of tax due. Leased vehicles entering North Dakota from another state are subject to tax on the remaining lease period. Credit is allowed for tax paid to another state. Excise tax is imposed on the lease or rental of any aircraft required to be registered in North Dakota. See TAXES section for further information.
Sales tax of 5.0% is imposed on the rental of a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer for a period of less than 30 days. Tax is collected at time payment is collected for the rental of the vehicle. City and county sales taxes do not apply. A 3.0% rental surcharge is collected on the rental charges of a motor vehicle rented for less than 30 days provided the motor vehicle has a GVW of 10,000 lbs. or less.
Insurance Requirements-Minimum requirements are $25,000/$50,000/$25,000 liability protection, $25,000/$50,000 uninsured/underinsured motorist protection, and $30,000 basic no-fault (PIP) coverage. Any vehicle with a valid North Dakota registration or operated on the highway, highway shoulder or right of way, or state trail must have a liability insurance policy in effect. Motorcycles are exempt from no-fault insurance. Proof of insurance must be carried in the vehicle/motorboat.
Motor Vehicle Safety & Emission Inspection-A Certificate of Vehicle Inspection (2486)* must be completed by a qualified business to verify compliance with state law prior to titling and registration of rebuilt vehicles, modified vehicles, antique vehicles, homemade vehicles, window tint, or other reason.
*
A Certificate of Vehicle Inspection Off-Highway/Low-Speed Vehicles (58953) must be for OHVs, mopeds/scooters, low-speed vehicles, or modified golf carts.
Records-Filed by name, VIN, license number, and title number. Records of surrendered titles and MCOs are maintained permanently. Expired registration records are kept three years. A Request for Vehicle Information (51269) must be submitted with a fee of $3.00 per vehicle or search; $25.00 per hour if extensive research required.
Enforcement-Highway Patrol Headquarters, 600 E. Boulevard Avenue, Department 504, Bismarck, ND 58505, 701.328.2447.
DRIVER LICENSE
Original License-Minimum driving age is 16; however, a restricted license may be obtained at the age of 15. Must pass vision, knowledge, and road tests. Licenses are valid for six years and expire on birth date; licenses for those ages 78 or older and CDLs are valid for four years and expire on birth date. Minors must have parent or legal guardian consent. New residents must obtain a North Dakota driver license within 60 days of establishing residency; 30 days for CDL.
Instruction Permit-Must be 14 years of age and pass knowledge and vision tests. Must hold instruction permit for at least 12 months if under 16 years of age, or at least six months if aged 16 to less than 18. If under 16 years of age, driver’s education and required hours of driving practice must be completed prior to road test. Upon successful completion of a road test, a restricted license will be issued. The license is no longer restricted once the driver reaches the age of 16; however, the driver is subject to minor licensing laws until the age of 18.
Renewal-May be made in person or online, if eligible. Vision test required. Renewal by mail is available for noncommercial licenses if resident is temporarily out of state. All testing required if license is expired for more than one year.
Non-Commercial Classes:
| Class D | Any single vehicle less than 26,001 lbs. GVWR. May tow trailers not more than 10,000 lbs. GVWR. Trucks towing trailers more than 10,000 lbs. provided the GCWR does not exceed 26,000 lbs. |
| Class M | Any two- or three-wheeled motorcycle. |
Commercial Classes:
| Group A | Any combination of vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 lbs. or more, provided the GVWR of the vehicle(s) being towed is more than 10,000 lbs. |
| Group B | Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 lbs. or more, or any such vehicle towing a vehicle not more than 10,000 lbs. GVWR. |
| Group C | Any single vehicle or combination of vehicles that meets neither the definition of Group A nor Group B but designed to transport 16 or more passengers including the driver, or used in the transportation of hazardous materials requiring placarding. |
Endorsements:
| H | Hazardous |
| N | Tanker |
| P | Passenger |
| S | School bus |
| T | Double/triple trailer |
Fees:
| Driver License or Permit | $15.00 |
| Substitute | $8.00 |
| Name or address change only | $3.00 |
| Written test | $5.00 |
| Skills test | $5.00 |
| Motorcycle Permit | $8.00 |
| Identification Card | $8.00 |
| Identification Card 18 & older | $0.00 |
| Endorsements (each) | $3.00 |
Military-Licenses of resident military personnel are valid for 30 days following honorable separation from service or return to North Dakota. Does not apply to military dependents. Renewal by mail is available for military member and spouses.
The knowledge and/or skills portion of the CDL testing process may be waived for qualified military personnel with experience driving commercial motor vehicles for military purposes. An Application for Military CDL Knowledge Test or Knowledge and Skills Test Waiver (60071) must be approved.
Licenses Issued by-Department of Transportation, Driver’s License Division, 608 E. Boulevard Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58505, 701.328.2600, **@**.gov, or at any Driver License Site location.
†Updated Information ©December 2023.