Texting while driving in North Dakota: $100 and no points
By Road Ready Safety · Checked against North Dakota law on
Short answer
Texting while driving is a $100 fee in North Dakota. It isn't on the state's point schedule, so no points are added. The ban covers composing, reading or sending electronic messages, including at a red light. Phone calls, GPS and hands-free use are allowed for adult drivers.
- Fee
- $100
- Points
- None
- Stopped at a light
- Still counts
- Hands-free and voice use
- Allowed
- Drivers 16 and 17
- No phone use at all
What does the law ban?
Using a wireless communications device "to compose, read, or send an electronic message" while operating a vehicle that is part of traffic (NDCC 39-08-23). Electronic messages include texts, email, instant messages and requests to load a web page.
Does it apply at a red light?
Yes. The law defines traffic to include "a temporary stop or halt of motion, such as at an official traffic-control signal or sign." A vehicle that is lawfully parked is not in traffic.
What is still allowed?
- Entering or selecting a phone number to make or take a call
- Using GPS or a navigation system
- Talking on the phone
- Using a device in a voice-activated or hands-free way
- Using a device to get emergency help or report a crash, a medical emergency or a serious hazard
What is the penalty?
A $100 fee. The violation isn't listed in the point schedule, and NDDOT says that for violations not listed, no points are assigned.
What is the rule for teen drivers?
Stricter. A driver who is 16 or 17 with a class D license may not use an electronic communication device "to talk, compose, read, or send an electronic message" while the vehicle is in motion. The only exception is an emergency.
What is "failure to maintain control"?
A separate $100 violation for distracted driving. NDCC 39-08-25 applies when a driver commits another traffic offense, or is in a reportable crash with property damage, while engaged in an activity that isn't needed to drive and that impairs safe driving. It can be cited along with the other offense.
Do I need a course for a texting ticket?
No. There are no points to remove or keep off. Pay the fee by the date on the citation.
If the stop also produced a ticket that has points, such as speeding, that one is where a course matters. Points by violation.
Quick answers
How much is a texting while driving ticket in North Dakota?
$100, under NDCC 39-06.1-06.
Does a texting ticket put points on your license in North Dakota?
No. Texting while driving is not on the point schedule, and NDDOT assigns no points for violations that are not listed.
Can you text at a red light in North Dakota?
No. The law treats a temporary stop at a traffic signal or sign as being in traffic.
Can teens use a phone while driving in North Dakota?
Drivers who are 16 or 17 with a class D license may not talk, text or read messages on a device while the vehicle is in motion, except in an emergency.
Sources
- North Dakota Century Code chapter 39-08: reckless driving, racing, insurance and phone use
- North Dakota Century Code 39-06.1-06: amount of statutory fees
- North Dakota Century Code 39-06.1-10: point schedule and suspension
- NDDOT: Driver License Points Reduction and Points Schedule
We read each source on September 29, 2026. This guide is general information, not legal advice. NDDOT applies any point reduction, and your court handles an election in lieu of points. See a mistake? Email info@roadreadysafety.com.
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