If You Get a Ticket in North Dakota

Please note that your state and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regularly update these CDL requirements. Please visit the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) website and the FMCSA website for the most authoritative and up-to-date information regarding CDL requirements and processes.

NOTE: Effective April 21, 2025, per Federal Regulation, North Dakota Driver’s License will no longer be able to accept medical examiner certificates, and the requirement will be for nationally certified medical examiners to upload the certificate electronically. Please visit the Commercial | NDDOT website and review the Medical Certificate Requirements for complete information.

As a commercial vehicle driver, you are automatically subject to stricter driving standards and harsher penalties for violations than drivers of personal vehicles. Commercial drivers are assigned points on their driving record for any violations, regardless of how minor. These points are on record with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and are accessible to any potential employer.

In North Dakota, commercial drivers can have their CDL suspended if convicted of certain violations or if too many offenses occur within a given period of time. Suspensions not only cause you to lose your income, but they could cost you your job as well. That’s why it’s very important to be aware of the number of points on your record and to make sure you have experienced legal help on your side if you receive a ticket. A lawyer who is knowledgeable in trucking law can help you avoid getting points added to your record and fight to keep your record clean

Remember, the most important thing to remember when you receive a ticket is that you should never just pay the ticket or the court fees without first talking to a legal representative who understands trucking laws. While you want to maintain a clean driving record, unforeseen violations can happen. When they do, you need expert legal protection. Drivers Legal Plan, the Nation's Leading CDL Defense Law Firm, is ready to defend your rights and your career.