Estate Planning 101

Notifying the North Dakota Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division After a Loved One’s Passing

September 13, 2023

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When a loved one passes away, there are numerous people and organizations that must be notified, including the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) Motor Vehicle Division. This step is essential to update their records and to prevent potential misuse of the deceased's driving license or vehicle registration.

Who Should Be Notified

The NDDOT Motor Vehicle Division should be notified if the deceased held a driving license or had a registered vehicle in the state of North Dakota.

When to Notify

Informing the NDDOT Motor Vehicle Division should be done as soon as possible, once you've taken care of immediate family notifications and funeral arrangements.

How to Notify

To notify the NDDOT, you will need to mail a copy of the death certificate along with a letter informing them of the deceased's death. The letter should include the deceased's full name, date of birth, and driving license number. Send this to: NDDOT, Driver License Division, 608 E. Boulevard Ave., Bismarck, ND 58505.

For vehicle registrations, you should mail a letter, along with a copy of the death certificate and the vehicle's title or registration card, to: NDDOT, Motor Vehicle Division, 608 E. Boulevard Ave., Bismarck, ND 58505.

What to Expect After Notification

Once the NDDOT Motor Vehicle Division has been notified, they will update their records to reflect the death. The deceased's driving license will be canceled, and vehicle registrations will be updated or transferred as needed.

Tips for Notification

When notifying the NDDOT, it's advisable to keep copies of all sent documents and to send them via certified mail with return receipt requested. This helps confirm that your notification has been received.

Conclusion

Notifying the North Dakota Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division after a loved one's death is a necessary task. It helps ensure the deceased's records are accurately updated and can prevent potential misuse of their driving license or vehicle registrations.

FAQ

Q: What if I don’t have the deceased's driving license number?
A: If you don't have the license number, the NDDOT can usually locate the person's record using their full name and date of birth.

Q: Can I notify the NDDOT online or by phone?
A: Currently, the NDDOT does not offer an online or phone option for this type of notification. It must be done by mail.

Q: What happens to the deceased's vehicle?
A: The vehicle can be transferred to a new owner. This usually requires a copy of the death certificate and the vehicle's title. The new owner will then need to apply for a new title and registration.