Can a DUI From Another State Affect My Record in North Dakota?

If you live in North Dakota but get a DUI in another state—whether in Minnesota, South Dakota, or anywhere else—you may wonder: Will it follow me back home? The answer is usually yes.

North Dakota is part of interstate agreements that share driving and criminal records. That means a DUI conviction elsewhere can impact both your North Dakota criminal record and your driving privileges.

How Out-of-State DUIs Are Reported to North Dakota

Most states, including North Dakota, participate in the Driver License Compact (DLC) and the National Driver Register (NDR).

• Driver License Compact (DLC): An agreement among states to share DUI and traffic offense information.

• National Driver Register (NDR): A federal database of drivers with suspended or revoked licenses due to DUI or other serious offenses.

If you’re convicted of DUI in another state:

1. That state reports the conviction to North Dakota.

2. The North Dakota Department of Transportation (ND DOT) reviews it.

3. ND DOT may suspend or revoke your license here, just as if the DUI happened in Bismarck or Fargo.

Criminal Record Impact in North Dakota

A DUI from another state doesn’t just affect your license—it can also appear on your criminal record in North Dakota. This matters because:

• Future charges in ND: If you’re later arrested for DUI in Minot or Dickinson, your prior out-of-state DUI may count as a repeat offense, leading to harsher penalties.

• Background checks: Employers, landlords, and schools often see these out-of-state convictions.

• Court sentencing: Judges across Burleigh County, Ward County, and Cass County may consider your past DUI history when imposing penalties.

Common Examples for North Dakota Drivers

• Minnesota DUI: Many Bismarck or Grand Forks drivers cross the border into Minnesota. If arrested for DUI in Moorhead, it will almost certainly be reported back to ND.

• South Dakota DUI: A DUI in Rapid City or Sioux Falls can trigger a license suspension in North Dakota.

• Montana DUI: Even a conviction in Montana can show up in your ND record.

What to Do If You Have DUI from another State in North Dakota

If you’re facing DUI charges—or already have a DUI conviction from another state—here’s what you should do:

1. Contact a North Dakota DUI Defense Attorney: An attorney can explain how the conviction will affect your record and license.

2. Request a Hearing with ND DOT: You may have the right to challenge your license suspension.

3. Understand Repeat Offense Laws: Even if your prior DUI was out-of-state, it may increase penalties for a new offense in North Dakota.

At Heartland Law Office, we help drivers statewide—from Bismarck and Minot to Fargo and Williston—understand their rights and fight for their driving privileges.

Internal Links

• DUI Defense in North Dakota

• Criminal Defense Services

• Contact Heartland Law Office

External Links

• North Dakota Century Code § 39-20 (Implied Consent and DUI Laws)

• North Dakota DOT – Driver’s License Suspension and Revocation

• National Driver Register (NDR)

FAQ: Out-of-State DUIs and North Dakota

Q: Will a DUI from Minnesota affect my North Dakota license?

A: Yes. Minnesota reports DUI convictions to North Dakota, and ND DOT can suspend your license.

Q: Does an out-of-state DUI count as a prior offense in North Dakota?

A: Usually yes. If you’re arrested again in ND, an out-of-state DUI often counts as a prior conviction.

Q: Can I fight a North Dakota license suspension from an out-of-state DUI?

A: Yes. You can request a hearing with ND DOT, but deadlines are short. An attorney can help.

Q: Will my employer see an out-of-state DUI on a background check in North Dakota?

A: Yes, most background checks will show DUIs from other states.

Q: Do CDL drivers face harsher consequences for out-of-state DUIs?

A: Yes. CDL holders face stricter license rules, and an out-of-state DUI can jeopardize their ability to drive commercially.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a licensed attorney regarding your specific situation.