Norte holds a BA from Montclair State University in New Jersey, and master's degree from New York University's Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service, where he studied under Professor Rae Zimmerman, among others. Don served on the Board of Directors and later as President of the California Public Parking Association. Don was employed by the City of West Hollywood's Department of Transportation and Public Works as Parking Services and Projects Officer for 27 years, and currently serves as Parking Manager for the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority. Norte currently resides in Hollywood with his partner since high school, and now husband, Kevin.