North Dakota just raised the interstate speed limit to 80 MPH, and if you’re running loads through the state, this change affects more than just how fast you drive. From delivery schedules to driver safety, this new law could shift the way truckers plan their routes and manage time on the road.
Here’s what this speed limit increase really means for CDL drivers, and how to stay safe, compliant, and efficient while adjusting to the change.
What’s Really Going On with the 80 MPH Rule?
As of August 2025, North Dakota officially increased the posted speed limit from 75 to 80 MPH on select rural interstate highways. This brings the state in line with others like Texas, Wyoming, and Utah that already allow similar limits.
For truck drivers, this isn’t just a number on a sign, it’s a shift in expectations for transit times, fuel usage, and risk management.
Why it matters:
- Faster legal speeds mean potentially quicker deliveries.
- But higher speeds increase fuel burn and wear on your rig.
- More speed also means less reaction time in emergency situations.
Source: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration – Speed and Crash Risk
Pros, Cons & What to Watch Out For
Let’s break down the good, the bad, and the must-knows.
✅ Pros:
- Shorter Trip Times: Shaving time off long hauls may boost efficiency, especially for OTR drivers.
- Competitive Scheduling: Keeps you on pace with fleet expectations when other drivers are moving faster.
❌ Cons:
- Fuel Efficiency Drops: Most rigs are optimized for 62–68 MPH. At 80 MPH, your MPG could tank.
- Increased Wear and Tear: Running faster takes a toll on tires, brakes, and engine systems.
- Higher Risk: Reaction time at 80 MPH is drastically reduced, accidents can escalate quickly.
⚠️ What to Watch:
- Company Speed Governors: Many carriers cap speeds regardless of state limits.
- Insurance Policies: Higher-speed travel could affect your liability or coverage terms.
- Weather Conditions: North Dakota winters + high speeds = recipe for disaster if you’re not careful.
What It Means for Your Job (or Career Path)
Whether you’re a company driver, lease operator, or owner-operator, this change affects you differently.
- Company Drivers: Expect tighter delivery windows, but don’t feel pressured to drive unsafely just to keep up.
- Lease Operators: Faster speeds could mean more loads, but watch your fuel costs and maintenance.
- Owner-Operators: You’ll need to weigh time saved vs. wear and fuel to protect your profit margins.
If you’re looking to maximize efficiency, routes through North Dakota could now look a little more attractive, but only if you play it smart.
Need Help Navigating Job Changes Like This?
That’s exactly why Drivers 1st exists. We’re not here to push you, we’re here to help you make a move when you’re ready. Whether you want more local time or better regional miles, our job-matching system puts your lifestyle first.
How to Take Action or Apply
If you’re hauling through North Dakota, here’s how to make smart moves:
- Check Your Rig’s Speed Setting / Governer Options: Don’t assume you can, or should, hit 80 MPH.
- Rerun Your Fuel Math: Recalculate MPG at higher speeds before planning loads.
- Talk to Your Dispatcher or Fleet Manager: Ask how this change affects your routes or performance expectations if you run in ND.
- Stay Safe: Increased speed = increased vigilance. Don’t let faster limits lead to rushed decisions.
→ Search CDL Jobs Near You
→ Talk to a Driver Advocate (No Pressure)
Conclusion
North Dakota’s new 80 MPH limit might sound like a green light for faster hauls, but it’s not without trade-offs. More speed means more risk, more fuel, and more decisions to make.
Your license is your business, make it work for you, not against you.
Whether you’re ready to switch gears or just want to see what’s out there, Drivers 1st is here when you are.
For more updates and insights into the trucking world, stay tuned to Drivers1st.com!