OutSooner
ND · Sentence credit rules

North Dakota good time and sentence credit rules

North Dakota can credit eligible prisoners 5 days of good time per month of the sentence imposed, based on performance. Meritorious credit is also possible.[1]

Sources last checked Oct 16, 2026, 8:21 AM MT. This explains current law. It does not calculate anyone's date.

Credit types and rates

  • Performance-based reduction: up to 5 days per month of the sentence imposed, for treatment, education and good work.[1]
  • Credit can include presentence custody time.[1]
  • Meritorious conduct: a lump sum or monthly reduction for outstanding performance or heroic acts.[1]

Exclusions and limits

  • Sentences under §12.1-32-09.1 (the 85% rule for certain violent offenses) are excepted.[1]
  • No credit for time on probation.[1]

Parole eligibility vs. discharge

  • Good time shortens the sentence. Parole is decided separately by the Parole Board.

How to find a release date

  1. Search the official North Dakota VINELink offender search by name or ID number.
  2. Look for the projected release, parole eligibility, or discharge date. The DOC record already includes credits it has awarded.
  3. For questions, contact the facility records office. Only DOC can correct a date.

North Dakota VINELink offender search (official)

New laws and bills

Not yet verified We have not yet verified whether sentence-credit legislation is active here. (tracker checked Oct 16, 2026)

50-state tracker · North Dakota action kit

FAQ

How much good time do you get in North Dakota?

Up to 5 days per month of the sentence imposed, plus possible meritorious credit (N.D.C.C. 12-54.1).

Are there exceptions in ND?

Yes. Sentences under §12.1-32-09.1 (85% offenses) are excepted.

What this site can't do

Limits of OutSooner information
IssueWhy it matters
Discipline and lost creditsWe cannot see write-ups, forfeitures or restored credits. Only the facility record shows them.
Detainers and holdsWarrants, immigration holds or other-state detainers can block release. They are not in public data.
Consecutive and concurrent sentencesHow sentences stack changes every date. We do not recompute aggregated sentences.
Parole board discretionEligibility is not release. Boards decide, and can deny or defer.
Jail credit errorsPretrial credit is set by the court. Errors must be fixed through the court or records office.
Recent law changesNew laws, court rulings and DOC policy changes can take weeks to reach records.
Individual legal adviceWe explain public rules. A lawyer or the DOC records office can apply them to one case.

Always confirm dates with the official DOC records office.

Sources

  1. N.D.C.C. ch. 12-54.1 (sentence reduction)

Official statute, regulation, or agency pages only. Last checked Oct 16, 2026, 8:21 AM MT. Spotted an error? Tell us.

All 50 states + DC · Federal (First Step Act) · Paroling to another state (Interstate Compact)

Sources: N.D.C.C. ch. 12-54.1 (sentence reduction) · Last verified: · Corrections