This interpretation has the practical benefit of preserving the prohibition in N.D.C.C.§ 62.1-02-10 against keeping or carrying a loaded firearm in or on any motor vehicle. As long as an individual produces a valid driver’s license, and otherwise meets therequirements for constitutional carry, that individual is producing the “valid concealedweapons license” which meets the exemption under N.D.C.C. §62.1-02-10(3). Likewise, if the individual does not have the proper identification, the prohibitionsagainst driving with a loaded gun in a vehicle remain in place.
It is my opinion, that an individual’s valid driver’s license or sanctioned identificationcard is the equivalent of a “valid concealed weapons license” as required underN.D.C.C. § 62.1-02-10 with regard to what was previously only known as a class 2concealed weapons license. Therefore, it is further my opinion that when an individualmeets the qualifications for constitutional carry in North Dakota, a loaded gun may bestored in a vehicle but proper identification must be revealed to law enforcement upon atraffic stop or other in-person contact, as required in N.D.C.C § 62.1-04-04. Thisinterpretation is consistent with the Legislature’s intent and accomplishes the statutes’goals and objectives.
