Is Lane Splitting (Motorcycles) Legal in North Dakota? (2026)
No — Lane Splitting (Motorcycles) is illegal in North Dakota as of 2026.
Quick Answer
North Dakota Century Code § 39-10-22 prohibits motorcycles from lane splitting. Motorcycles must stay within a single lane and are not allowed to pass between lanes of traffic.
What the Law Says
North Dakota law entitles motorcycles to the full use of a lane, which prohibits lane splitting.
— North Dakota Century Code § 39-10-22
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Lane Splitting Rules | No specific rules related to lane splitting. |
| Lane Filtering Rules | No specific rules related to lane splitting. |
| Traffic Penalties | Violations may result in fines and points on the operator's driving record. |
| License Requirements | None |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
No significant changes since 2023.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement of lane splitting laws in North Dakota is strict, with officers often citing general traffic safety statutes.
A common mistake in North Dakota is riders assuming that filtering in slow or stopped traffic is permissible, which is generally not the case.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across North Dakota. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Lane Splitting (Motorcycles) is illegal in North Dakota. This activity can result in criminal charges. Do not assume enforcement is lax — penalties are real. Consult a licensed attorney if you have specific questions.
North Dakota vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, lane splitting on a motorcycle is fully legal in 1 states, restricted in 3, and illegal in 46. North Dakota falls in the ILLEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Comprehensive North Dakota Legal Guides
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