Trucking Regulations in North Dakota
Complete guide to weight limits, speed limits, permits, chain laws, and special rules for commercial truck drivers operating in North Dakota.
Max Gross Weight
105,500 lbs on state routes with permit
Truck Speed Limit
75 mph (same as cars)
Diesel Tax
$0.23 per gallon diesel + federal
Weight & Size Limits in North Dakota
| Measurement | Limit |
|---|---|
| Max Gross Vehicle Weight | 105,500 lbs on state routes with permit |
| Max Axle Weight | 20,000 lbs single axle, 34,000 lbs tandem |
| Max Trailer Length | 75 ft for doubles |
| Max Width | 102 inches |
| Max Height | 14 ft |
Speed Limits for Trucks in North Dakota
Rural Interstate
75 mph
Urban Interstate
55 mph
Truck-Specific
75 mph (same as cars)
Fuel Tax & Tolls in North Dakota
Diesel Fuel Tax
$0.23 per gallon diesel + federal
Toll Roads & Bridges
No toll roads in the state.
Chain Laws & Weather Requirements
No chain law, but severe blizzards can close I-94 and I-29 for days.
Oversize & Overweight Permits
NDDOT Motor Vehicle Division. North Dakota is very accommodating to oversize and overweight loads, supporting oil field operations.
Port of Entry & Weigh Stations
Weigh stations on I-94, I-29. North Dakota Highway Patrol commercial vehicle enforcement. Oil field truck enforcement in the Bakken region.
Special Rules for North Dakota
Hazmat Route Restrictions
Oil field hazmat transport is heavily regulated. Designated routes for crude oil tankers in the Bakken region. Hazmat restricted through Fargo and Bismarck city centers.
Rest Area & Parking Rules
Rest areas allow overnight parking. Spacing on I-94 in western ND can be 50+ miles. No anti-idling law.
DOT Inspection Frequency
High in oil field areas. ND Highway Patrol focuses heavily on Bakken region truck safety. I-94 corridor sees routine enforcement.
Looking for Trucking Jobs in North Dakota?
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Frequently Asked Questions About North Dakota Trucking Regulations
What is the maximum truck weight in North Dakota?
North Dakota allows up to 105,500 lbs on designated state routes with proper permits and multi-axle configurations. This generous limit supports the state's oil, agriculture, and construction industries. Interstate highways follow the federal 80,000 lbs limit.
How does the Bakken oil field affect trucking?
The Bakken oil region in western North Dakota generates enormous truck traffic including crude oil tankers, water haulers, frac sand trucks, and equipment movers. Roads in Williams, McKenzie, and Mountrail counties see heavy truck volumes. Pay rates for oil field trucking can be 50-100% above average.
What is the truck speed limit in North Dakota?
North Dakota allows 75 mph for trucks on rural interstates, matching passenger vehicles. Urban interstates are 55 mph. This is among the highest truck speed limits in the country.
How does winter affect North Dakota trucking?
North Dakota winters are among the harshest in the US, with temperatures dropping to -30°F or below and blizzards closing I-94 and I-29 for extended periods. Ground blizzards with near-zero visibility are common. Drivers must carry winter survival gear and use winter blend diesel.
What are the spring load restrictions?
North Dakota strictly enforces spring load restrictions on state and county roads, typically from March through May. Weight limits are reduced to protect road surfaces during freeze-thaw cycles. County roads may have even stricter restrictions. Fines for overweight during restrictions are substantial.