North Dakota § 39-21-20 - Multiple-beam road-lighting equipment
Full text of North Dakota North Dakota Century Code § 39-21-20 — Multiple-beam road-lighting equipment, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 39-21-20. Multiple-beam road-lighting equipment
Except as hereinafter provided, the headlamps or the auxiliary driving lamp or the auxiliary passing lamp or combination thereof on motor vehicles must be so arranged that the driver may select at will between distributions of light projected to different elevations and these lamps may, in addition, be so arranged that selection can be made automatically, subject to the following limitations: 1. 2. 3. There must be an uppermost distribution of light, or composite beam, so aimed and of sufficient intensity to reveal persons and vehicles at a distance of at least four hundred fifty feet [137.16 meters] ahead for all conditions of loading. There must be a lowermost distribution of light, or composite beam, so aimed and of sufficient intensity to reveal persons and vehicles at a distance of at least one hundred fifty feet [45.72 meters] ahead; and on a straight level road under any condition of loading none of the high-intensity portion of the beam may be directed to strike the eyes of an approaching driver. Every new motor vehicle, registered in this state, which has multiple-beam road-lighting equipment must be equipped with a beam indicator, which must be lighted whenever the uppermost distribution of light from the headlamps is in use, and may not otherwise be lighted. The indicator must be so designed and located that when lighted it will be readily visible without glare to the driver of the vehicle so equipped.
Source: official North Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About North Dakota § 39-21-20
What does North Dakota Century Code § 39-21-20 cover?
Section 39-21-20 ("Multiple-beam road-lighting equipment") 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 § 39-21-20?
A common citation format is "North Dakota Century Code § 39-21-20" (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 § 39-21-20 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.