North Dakota's 30-day deadline for a course in lieu of points

When does the 30 days start?

When you notify the court of your election, which you do when you post bond. The statute says the points may not be assessed "if proof of completion of the course is presented to the department within thirty days after the individual notifies the court of the election."

The clock doesn't start when you enroll, and it doesn't start when you finish.

What has to happen inside the 30 days?

Two things: you finish the course, and NDDOT has your proof of completion. Finishing on day 29 and mailing the certificate on day 30 is too late if it arrives on day 33.

What if I miss it?

The points are entered as if you hadn't elected the course. You've already forfeited the bond.

You can still use the course for a 3-point reduction later, but check with NDDOT first. The law says a person making the election forfeits the reduction option, so call 701-328-2604 and ask how they'll treat your certificate.

How long does the course take?

Four hours. Ours is self-paced and saves your place. Most people finish in one or two evenings.

What is a safe schedule?

When	What to do
Day 1	Post bond, tell the court you elect the course, and enroll
Days 2 to 7	Finish the four hours and pass the final
Same day you pass	Email the certificate to drs@nd.gov
Day 21	Order a $3 limited record and confirm the points aren't there

Should I mail it or email it?

Email. It arrives the same day and you have a record of when you sent it. NDDOT's address for certificates is drs@nd.gov.

I posted bond by mail. Did I make the election?

Only if you told the court. The law says you "must so notify the court at the time of posting the bond." If you posted bond without saying so, call the clerk of the court on your citation right away and ask whether the election can still be recorded.

Is there a deadline for the 3-point reduction?

No. That one has no time limit. Only the in-lieu election does.