Weapons in CMVs - North Dakota

North Dakota is a constitutional carry state, which means law-abiding adults 18 years and older who can legally possess a firearm under federal and state law may carry a concealed handgun without obtaining a permit. Individuals who carry concealed weapons must also carry a driver’s license or state identification card. Residents who are not otherwise prohibited from carrying firearms may concealed carry within a private vehicle as long as they have the proper identification and have been a state resident for at least 30 days. Non-residents must have a concealed carry permit from a state with North Dakota reciprocity to carry in a vehicle.

Permits

Concealed weapons licenses (CWLs) are not required but may be useful for reciprocity with other states. Permits are issued by the state attorney general. North Dakota has moderate reciprocity with other states. North Dakota issues Class 1 and Class 2 permits, with Class 1 being recognized by more states.

Other weapons

So-called “dangerous weapons” that are allowed to be carried with a North Dakota CWL include switchblades, machetes, scimitars, stilettos, swords, daggers, and knives with a blade five inches or longer.

Permitted non-lethal weapons include:

• Stun guns/tasers
• Pepper spray
• Tear gas (with restrictions)
• Bear spray (legal for self-defense against wildlife)
• Bludgeons/batons (expandable batons may not be carried concealed without a CWL)
• Less-lethal launchers

Duty to inform

There is no duty to inform if the carrier has a CWL. North Dakota residents carrying without a CWL have a duty to inform.

Employee parking lots

Employers in North Dakota may not prohibit employees from storing lawfully carried weapons in locked vehicles in employer parking lots.