§ 39-04-11 — Display of number plates and tabs - Temporary registration permit

Unless otherwise provided by law, an individual may not operate a vehicle on a public
highway of this state unless the vehicle has a distinctive number assigned to the vehicle by the
department, and two number plates, bearing the distinctive number conspicuously displayed,
horizontally and in an upright position, one on the front and one on the rear of the vehicle, each
securely fastened, except number plates assigned to a housetrailer must be attached to the rear
of the housetrailer. An individual may operate a motor vehicle on a public highway of this state
with a valid temporary registration permit. A temporary registration permit obtained from the
department of transportation or a licensed motor vehicle dealer must be displayed on the rear
window, the rearmost driver's side window, or in the location of the rear license plate. The

temporary registration permit must be clearly visible and free of any obstructions. Number plates
assigned to a motorcycle or trailer must be attached to the rear of the motorcycle or trailer and
may be displayed vertically. When only one number plate is furnished for an apportioned vehicle
registered under the international registration plan as authorized in section 39-19-04, truck
tractor, or semitrailer, the plate must be attached to the front of the apportioned vehicle or truck
tractor and the rear of the semitrailer. The bottom of each number plate must be at a height of
not less than twelve inches [30.48 centimeters] above the level surface upon which the vehicle
stands. Each plate must be mounted in a visible manner that clearly displays the distinctive
number assigned to the vehicle and the name of the state on the plate. As far as is reasonably
possible, the plates must at all times be kept free and clear of mud, ice, or snow so as to be
clearly visible and all number plates, markers, or evidence of registration or licensing except for
the current year must be removed from the vehicle. All vehicle license plates issued by the
department are the property of the department for the period for which the plates are valid. An
annual registration tab or sticker for the current registration year must be displayed on each
number plate, in the area designated by the department for the tab or sticker, in those years for
which tabs or stickers are issued in lieu of number plates.