← North Dakota alcohol laws›Open Container Law
North Dakota Open Container Law (2026)
Restricted: North Dakota prohibits having an open or unsealed container of alcohol in the passenger area on a public highway; open containers must be kept in the trunk or an area that is not normally occupied (NDCC 39-08).
Official source: ndlegis.gov →
General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.
Open Container Law in states bordering North Dakota
The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.
- MinnesotaRestricted
Minnesota prohibits open containers of alcohol in the passenger area of a vehicle, which includes an unlocked glove compartment and any area the occupants can reach (Minn. Stat. 169A.35).
Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: revisor.mn.gov · Full Minnesota rule →
- MontanaRestricted
Montana prohibits an open alcoholic-beverage container in the passenger area of a vehicle on a public highway, for both the driver and passengers (MCA 61-8-460). The civil fine is up to $100.
Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: archive.legmt.gov · Full Montana rule →
- South DakotaRestricted
In South Dakota no person may consume or possess an open or unsealed alcoholic beverage in a vehicle on a public highway; the original seal must be unbroken. It is a Class 2 misdemeanor and applies to the driver and to passengers.
Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: sdlegislature.gov · Full South Dakota rule →
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