North Dakota License Plate Display Law — 2025 Guide
Front + Rear Required
Quick Answer
North Dakota requires both front and rear license plates.
The Law at a Glance
Statute
ND Century Code §39-04-11
Mounting
Front + Rear Required
Plate Format
123 ABC
Penalty
Fines vary by jurisdiction.
Plate Design
'Legendary' or buffalo silhouette design.
Recent Changes
North Dakota government vehicles use 'OFCL' code with SF prefix (State Fleet).
State-Specific Notes
North Dakota is a two-plate state.
Plate Design Details
First Issued
November 2016
Plate Style
Screened serial; reflective sheeting
Full Design
Black on light blue gradient fade to sunrise with prairie scene and buffalo graphic — 'Legendary North Dakota' (top), 'Peace Garden State' (bottom)
Current Format
123 ABC — three digits, three letters
Letter Exclusions
Standard alphabet — no specific letter exclusions documented.
Historical Plates Still Valid
Earlier 2015–2016 plates with same general design but earlier 'North Dakota' font remain valid.
Notable Facts
North Dakota government vehicles use 'OFCL' code with SF prefix (State Fleet, e.g., SF1234).
How atroq Frames Stay Compliant in North Dakota
atroq frames in North Dakota are engineered to comply with all display requirements. The frame's recessed sticker windows keep renewal stickers visible. The frame's thickness does not obscure the alphanumeric serial, state name, or the issuing jurisdiction. atroq's universal mounting fits North Dakota's standard 6 × 12 inch passenger plates. Since North Dakota requires both plates, customers typically order frames in pairs.
Design your North Dakota-compliant frame
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a front license plate required in North Dakota?
Yes. North Dakota requires both a front and rear license plate on all registered passenger vehicles. North Dakota requires both front and rear license plates.
What is the North Dakota license plate format?
North Dakota uses the format 123 ABC for standard passenger plates.
How often does North Dakota change its plate design?
North Dakota updates plate designs periodically. North Dakota government vehicles use 'OFCL' code with SF prefix (State Fleet).
Are decorative license plate frames legal in North Dakota?
Yes. Decorative frames are legal in North Dakota as long as they do not obscure the alphanumeric serial, the state name, or any registration sticker. atroq frames are designed to comply with North Dakota display requirements.
What size are North Dakota license plates?
North Dakota issues plates in the U.S. standard 6 × 12 inches (150 × 300 mm) for passenger vehicles, matching the 1956 SAE / Automobile Manufacturers Association dimensional agreement.
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