What you need to know about North Dakota license plates
North Dakota issues standard passenger plates to vehicle owners who register their cars in the state. When you buy a vehicle or move to North Dakota, you'll need to get plates from your county's motor vehicle registration office — not from a state office, but from the county where you live or where your vehicle is garaged. The process involves registering your vehicle, paying registration fees, and receiving your plates in person or by mail depending on which county you're in.
Most North Dakota plates are white with blue lettering and the state name across the top. Your plate will have a three-letter county code on the left side, which identifies which county issued it. The format is typically three letters followed by three numbers, though some older plates may have different arrangements.
Key Takeaways
- You register your vehicle and receive plates through your county motor vehicle registration office, not a state office.
- Standard North Dakota plates are white with blue lettering and include a three-letter county code identifying your county.
- Registration fees vary by vehicle type and weight, and you'll need proof of ownership, a valid ID, and proof of insurance to register.
- Plates expire when your registration expires, typically one or two years after issuance depending on your vehicle type.
- You can renew your registration and plates by mail, online, or in person at your county office.
Getting plates when you first register a vehicle
To register a vehicle in North Dakota and receive plates, you'll visit your county motor vehicle registration office with several documents. Bring your proof of ownership (the title or bill of sale), a valid photo ID, and proof of insurance. The county office will verify your information, calculate your registration fee based on your vehicle's type and weight, and issue your plates.
Registration fees in North Dakota depend on your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). A passenger car typically costs less than a truck or SUV. You'll also pay a one-time plate fee when you first register. Once you've paid, you'll either receive your plates when ready if the office has them in stock, or they'll be mailed to you within a few days.
If you're moving to North Dakota from another state, you'll need to surrender your old plates and register your vehicle with a North Dakota title. Your county office can tell you whether you need to explore for a new title or if your out-of-state title can be transferred.
Understanding plate types and special plates
North Dakota offers several plate types beyond the standard white plate. Disabled veteran plates, disabled person plates, and organizational plates (for nonprofits and certain groups) have different designs and are issued through the same county registration process. You'll need to provide additional documentation — such as a disability information letter or organizational status — to receive these special plates.
Personalized plates are also available. You can request a custom combination of letters and numbers instead of the standard format, though the county will check that your requested combination isn't already in use. Personalized plates cost more than standard plates and must still include your county code.
Renewing your registration and plates
Your registration and plates expire on a date set by your county, typically one or two years after you first register. North Dakota sends renewal notices by mail about 30 days before your expiration date. You can renew in three ways: by mail using the renewal notice, online through the North Dakota Department of Transportation website, or in person at your county office.
When you renew by mail or online, you'll pay the renewal fee and your current plates remain valid — you don't receive new plates unless yours are damaged or you're changing your plate type. If you renew in person, the county office will process your renewal the same day. You'll need to show proof of insurance and your vehicle's current registration.
If your registration expires and you haven't renewed, you cannot legally drive your vehicle. Driving with expired plates can result in a traffic citation. If you miss your renewal date, you can still renew at your county office, though you may face a late fee.
Replacing damaged, lost, or stolen plates
If your plate is damaged, lost, or stolen, contact your county motor vehicle registration office to report it and request a replacement. You'll need to provide your vehicle's registration information and pay a replacement fee, which is typically less than the original plate fee. The county will issue a new plate with the same number as your original plate.
If your plate was stolen, you may want to file a police report as well, though this is not required to get a replacement plate. Some counties will issue a temporary plate while they prepare your permanent replacement.
Transferring plates between vehicles
If you sell your vehicle and buy a new one, you cannot transfer your old plate to the new vehicle. Each vehicle receives its own plate when registered. However, you can keep your personalized plate design if you had one — you'll need to request that the same personalized combination be issued on your new vehicle's plate, and you'll pay the personalized plate fee again.
When you sell a vehicle, notify your county office so your registration can be closed. If you're buying a used vehicle from a private seller, the seller should sign over the title to you, and you'll then register it in your name at your county office.
County-specific information and contact details
Each of North Dakota's 53 counties operates its own motor vehicle registration office, and hours, fees, and services may vary slightly by county. Some counties offer online renewal, while others require in-person or mail renewal. Some offices accept credit cards; others accept only cash or check.
To find your county's motor vehicle registration office, search online for "[your county name] motor vehicle registration" or contact your county auditor's office, which typically oversees vehicle registration. The North Dakota Department of Transportation website lists all county offices and their contact information. Calling ahead can save you a trip — you can confirm what documents you need and whether the office has your requested plate type in stock.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order plates online and have them mailed to me?
You cannot order plates online directly. You must register or renew through your county office in person, by mail, or online (if your county offers online registration). Once you've registered, the county will mail plates to you or you can pick them up in person. Some counties mail plates automatically; others require you to pick them up.
What if I move to a different county in North Dakota?
You'll need to re-register your vehicle with your new county. Contact your new county's motor vehicle registration office with your current registration and title. You'll receive new plates with your new county's code. You don't need to buy a new title — your existing title transfers to the new county.
Do I need to display my plate on both the front and back of my vehicle?
North Dakota law requires a plate on the rear of your vehicle. A front plate is not required for passenger vehicles, though you may display one if you choose. Motorcycles and certain other vehicle types have different requirements — your county office can tell you what applies to your vehicle.
What happens if my plate is damaged but still readable?
If your plate is bent, faded, or partially damaged but the numbers and letters are still visible, you can continue using it until your registration expires. At renewal, you can request a replacement plate. If the plate is so damaged that it's unreadable, contact your county office when ready for a replacement.
Can I keep my North Dakota plate if I move out of state?
No. If you move out of North Dakota, you must surrender your North Dakota plates and register your vehicle in your new state. Your new state will issue its own plates. If you move back to North Dakota later, you'll receive new North Dakota plates.