Is reckless driving a criminal offense in North Dakota?

Yes. Reckless driving is a criminal misdemeanor in North Dakota [§ 39-08-03; 12.1-32-01], not just a traffic infraction. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that appears on background checks.

What are the penalties for reckless driving in North Dakota?

Penalties include up to 30 days jail, up to $1,500 fine; aggravated reckless driving (causing injury to another) is a Class A misdemeanor [§ 39-08-03; 12.1-32-01]. Additionally, significant points are added to your driving record, and insurance rates increase dramatically.

Can reckless driving be reduced to a lesser charge?

In many cases, yes. An experienced traffic attorney can often negotiate a reduction to a lesser charge such as improper driving or speeding, which carries fewer points and is not a criminal offense.

How does reckless driving affect my CDL?

A reckless driving conviction is classified as a serious violation for CDL holders [§ 39-06.2-02]. CDL holders governed by federal and state rules: two serious violations within 3 years result in a 60-day CDL disqualification [§ 49 C.F.R. 383.51].

Topic guideUpdated 2026-02-27

Reckless Driving in North Dakota — Criminal Charges & Penalties

What constitutes reckless driving in North Dakota, penalties, impact on your record, and CDL consequences.

Reckless driving is a serious traffic offense in North Dakota. Driving recklessly in disregard of the rights or safety of others, or without due caution and circumspection and at a speed or in a manner so as to endanger or be likely to endanger any person or the property of another §39-08-03; §12.1-32-01.

Classification and Penalties

Reckless driving in North Dakota is classified as a Class B misdemeanor — up to 30 days jail, up to $1,500 fine; aggravated reckless driving (causing injury to another) is a Class A misdemeanor §39-08-03; §12.1-32-01.

What Constitutes Reckless Driving

Common behaviors that can lead to a reckless driving charge:

Excessive speeding (significantly over the posted limit)

Weaving in and out of traffic at high speed

Racing on public roads

Passing on curves or hills with limited visibility

Ignoring traffic signals or signs in a dangerous manner

Road rage or aggressive driving behavior

Reckless Driving vs. Other Charges

	Classification	Typical Penalty
Speeding	Infraction/Minor	Fine + Points vary §39-06.1-10
Reckless Driving	Class B misdemeanor §39-08-03; §12.1-32-01	up to 30 days jail, up to $1,500 fine; aggravated reckless driving (causing injury to another) is a Class A misdemeanor

Impact on Your Record

A reckless driving conviction can:

Add significant points to your driving record §39-06.1-10

Result in license suspension or revocation

Dramatically increase insurance rates (often 50-100%+)

Appear on background checks as a criminal conviction

Affect employment, especially for commercial drivers

Disqualify CDL holders from commercial driving §39-06.2-02

⚠Reckless driving is a criminal offense in North Dakota, not just a traffic infraction. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Consult an attorney before pleading guilty.

Prepare for Your Consultation

Quick checklist (Traffic Violations)

Gather these before your first consultation.

Traffic citation copy

(date, location, violation code)

Driving record / MVR

(point history, prior violations)

Insurance and registration

(proof of coverage, vehicle reg.)

General preparation tips only. Specific needs depend on your state and violation type.

No Obligation

Ready to Talk to a Lawyer?

Submit a short intake form and a participating North Dakota attorney who handles this type of matter may reach out to you. No commitment required.

Request a Free Consultation →

No attorney-client relationship is created unless you later sign an engagement agreement. Participating attorneys may pay a marketing fee to receive inquiries.

Common Questions