North Dakota § 39-05-20.3 - Grounds for refusing certificate of title

Full text of North Dakota North Dakota Century Code § 39-05-20.3 — Grounds for refusing certificate of title, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 39-05-20.3. Grounds for refusing certificate of title

The department may not issue a certificate of title or transfer a certificate of title if: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. The application contains any false or fraudulent statements, the applicant has failed to furnish required information or reasonable additional information requested by the department, or the applicant is not entitled to the issuance of a certificate of title under this chapter. The vehicle is mechanically unfit or unsafe to be operated or moved upon the highways. A vehicle is unfit and unsafe if the vehicle has an out-of-state marked title that includes a certificate for destruction or a notation on the title that the vehicle is scrap, parts-only, junk, unrepairable, nonrebuildable, a dismantler, or any other similar notation. The department has reason to believe the vehicle is a stolen or embezzled vehicle or the granting of title would constitute a fraud against the rightful owner or other person having valid lien upon the vehicle. The certificate of title is suspended or revoked for any reason. The required fee has not been paid. Any sales tax or motor vehicle excise tax, properly due, has not been paid. There is failure to provide security for payment of basic no-fault benefits and the liabilities covered under motor vehicle liability insurance on a motor vehicle as required by chapter 26.1-41.

Source: official North Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About North Dakota § 39-05-20.3

What does North Dakota Century Code § 39-05-20.3 cover?

Section 39-05-20.3 ("Grounds for refusing certificate of title") is part of the North Dakota Century Code, the codified statutory law of North Dakota. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite North Dakota § 39-05-20.3?

A common citation format is "North Dakota Century Code § 39-05-20.3" (North Dakota). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of North Dakota law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the North Dakota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed North Dakota attorney.

How does North Dakota § 39-05-20.3 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in North Dakota can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in North Dakota.