North Dakota § 39-21-45.1 - Modification of motor vehicle

Full text of North Dakota North Dakota Century Code § 39-21-45.1 — Modification of motor vehicle, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 39-21-45.1. Modification of motor vehicle

1. An individual who operates a registered motor vehicle on a highway may not modify that vehicle unless the modification meets the following requirements: a. Any modifying equipment must meet any other requirement applicable to a vehicle under chapter 39-21. b. If tires placed on a motor vehicle have a diameter greater than that of the tires on the motor vehicle as manufactured, those tires must be branded with a United States department of transportation tire identification number. c. The maximum body height permitted for a motor vehicle is forty-two inches [106.68 centimeters]. Measurement of body height is made from a level ground surface to the floor of the cargo area. 2. An individual may not operate a registered motor vehicle on a highway unless the motor vehicle is equipped with front and rear bumpers. The height of the bumper must not exceed twenty-seven inches [68.58 centimeters] and this measurement is made 3. 4. from a level ground surface to the highest point on the bottom of the bumper. A horizontal drop bumper may be used to comply with this subsection and must be at least three inches [7.62 centimeters] in vertical width; extend the entire horizontal body width; and be horizontal, load bearing, and attached to the vehicle frame to effectively transfer impact when engaged. Vehicles owned by law enforcement agencies, the military, firefighting agencies, and ambulances may be modified without regard to this section. The director may adopt rules to implement this section.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About North Dakota § 39-21-45.1

What does North Dakota Century Code § 39-21-45.1 cover?

Section 39-21-45.1 ("Modification of motor vehicle") 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 § 39-21-45.1?

A common citation format is "North Dakota Century Code § 39-21-45.1" (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 § 39-21-45.1 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.