North Dakota DUI Laws

In North Dakota, drunk drivers claim the lives of 40-45 people each year. Alcohol related car crashes currently account for 42% of all fatal car crashes in the state. In 2007, a total of 111 people lost their lives on North Dakota roads. While North Dakota’s figures are considered low in comparison to other states, one drunk driving fatality is one too many. The state cracks down on drunk driving everyday by suspending licenses on the spot if a driver gets caught driving under the influence. In many cases, the driver will lose his license for 6 months and his freedom for several days.

What is the blood alcohol content level (BAC) limit in the state of North Dakota?

In the state of North Dakota, it is a crime to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. Sentence enhancements exist for cases involving a BAC of 0.18% or higher.

In the state of North Dakota what is the administrative license suspension period for a first offense?

In the state of North Dakota, if you get arrested for DUI, the administrative license suspension time for a first offense is 91 days. During the 91-day suspension period, the driver may apply for a limited license after 30 days, but he must demonstrate special hardship to justify restoring privileges. If the judge does restore driving privileges, the license will be restricted.

It is important to note that under administrative license suspension, the offender’s license will be taken before conviction when he either fails or refuses to be tested for alcohol or drugs.

In the state of North Dakota, what are the penalties for a first DUI offense? Second offense?

A first offense carries a $250 fine, license suspension up to 6 months, and an alcohol screening at your own expense. Second DUI convictions carry a minimum of 5 days in jail, a possible 12-month license suspension, and a $500 fine. If you get caught driving under the influence a third time, you will go to jail for 2 months. You will have to pay a minimum $1,000 fine, and your license will be revoked for 36 months. You will also have to submit to an alcohol screening at a court approved alcohol addiction facility.