The Constitution of North Dakota specifies that "the executive power is vested in the governor" in Section 1.

The dates of the general election for the office of governor are set by the North Dakota legislative assembly.

In addition to his role leading the executive branch offices, the governor has the right to sign or veto laws and to call the Legislative Assembly into emergency session.

The standard date of inauguration to the office of Governor of North Dakota is December 15 following the even-year general election.

Thus, the next scheduled inauguration of the governor will be held on December 15, 2028, for the successful candidate chosen at the November 2028 general election.

[4] In November 2022, voters approved an amendment to the North Dakota Constitution that established a lifetime limit of two four-year terms for the office of governor.

John Hoeven holds the record as the second longest-serving North Dakota governor (2000–2010).