North Dakota Increases Highway Speed Limits: North Dakota increases highway speed limits, marking a major change in how drivers will travel across the Peace Garden State. On August 1, 2025, North Dakota will raise its maximum speed on select highways from 75 to 80 mph, putting it in line with several other high-speed states like Montana and Utah.
This decision has sparked conversations about road safety, enforcement policies, and how the state stacks up against others. Whether you’re a trucker crossing the plains or a family heading to Teddy Roosevelt National Park, this change will impact your drive.
North Dakota Increases Highway Speed Limits
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| New Speed Limit | 80 mph on Interstates 29 and 94 and certain multilane highways |
| Previous Speed Limit | 75 mph |
| Effective Date | August 1, 2025 |
| Number of States with 80+ MPH | 9 states including Texas (85 mph), Utah, and Montana |
| Law Signed By | Governor Doug Burgum |
| Safety Concerns | IIHS warns of increased crash severity at higher speeds (iihs.org) |
| Enforcement Change | New fine structure: $20 base or $5 per mph over limit; higher fines in construction zones |
| Source | Car and Driver |
North Dakota’s new 80 mph highway speed limit isn’t just about speed — it’s about updating transportation policy to match driver behavior and infrastructure. While safety will remain a concern, the change reflects a broader national trend toward higher rural speed limits in low-traffic states.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, buckle up and cruise safe. The new rules of the road are rolling in.
Why North Dakota Is Raising the Speed Limit
Catching Up With Its Neighbors
For years, North Dakota held steady at 75 mph. But many neighboring states already allow higher speeds. South Dakota and Montana, for instance, both allow 80 mph on rural interstates. Texas even tops the chart with 85 mph on some toll roads.
According to lawmakers, the change aligns North Dakota with modern driving trends and vehicle capabilities.
Legislative Support and Timing
Governor Doug Burgum signed the bill into law in early 2025. A similar attempt in 2023 was vetoed, but this time, lawmakers had enough support to override opposition.
State Rep. Ben Koppelman noted, “Drivers are already going 80. This change legalizes what’s already happening, while keeping enforcement consistent.”
How It Compares Nationally
As of 2025, here’s how the speed landscape looks:
- Texas: Up to 85 mph on some toll roads
- Utah, South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming: 80 mph on many highways
- Nevada and Idaho: 80 mph on select interstates
- North Dakota: Joins the 80 mph club
That means North Dakota becomes the 9th state to adopt speed limits of 80 mph or higher.
Is It Safe to Drive Faster?
The Case for Higher Speeds
Supporters say today’s vehicles have better brakes, lane assist tech, and collision warnings, making them safer at higher speeds. Plus, North Dakota highways are flat, open, and lightly trafficked, ideal conditions for cruising.
In fact, studies show that speed differentials (cars driving at varying speeds) cause more crashes than consistent fast traffic.
What the Experts Say
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) says higher speeds are risky. They estimate that a 5 mph increase can lead to an 8% jump in highway fatalities.
Enforcement and Fines
Along with the new speed limit, North Dakota is updating how speeding fines are calculated.
Here’s How It Breaks Down:
- Speed limit 65 mph or more: $20 or $5 for each mph over the limit, whichever is more.
- Construction zones with workers present: Fine increased from $80 to $150.
These changes aim to discourage reckless speeding while keeping penalties fair.
What Drivers Need to Know
Which Roads Are Affected?
The speed limit increase will apply to:
- Interstate 29 (from South Dakota to Canada)
- Interstate 94 (from Montana to Minnesota)
- Other select four-lane highways designated by ND Department of Transportation
Be sure to watch for new signs and digital message boards.
Tips for Driving Safely at 80 mph
- Keep both hands on the wheel
- Leave at least 3 seconds of following distance
- Avoid distractions (yes, that includes your Spotify playlist)
- Watch for animals, especially deer at dawn and dusk
Benefits of Higher Speed Limits
- Reduced travel time: Save about 10–15 minutes per 100 miles
- More efficient trucking and freight delivery
- Economic boost for tourism and logistics
- Modernization of rural highway infrastructure
Potential Drawbacks and Controversies
- More severe crashes at higher speeds
- Higher fuel consumption, especially in older vehicles
- Increased wear on tires and brakes
- Environmental impact due to emissions increase
Critics also say faster highways can encourage aggressive driving behavior.
FAQs On North Dakota Increases Highway Speed Limits
Q: When does the new speed limit take effect?
A: August 1, 2025.
Q: Does it apply to all roads in North Dakota?
A: No. Only to designated multilane highways and interstates.
Q: Will GPS maps update automatically?
A: Most apps like Google Maps and Waze will auto-update based on state DOT feeds.
Q: Can I still get a ticket at 81 mph?
A: Yes. Speeding fines apply for anything over 80 mph.
Q: Is this the highest speed in the country?
A: No. Texas has the nation’s highest posted speed: 85 mph.
