You can renew your commercial driver license up to six months in advance of its expiration.

If your license expires, there is a 365 day grace period before you are required to reapply as a new applicant and retake all the tests. However, your license is no longer valid after it expires.

Special Renewal Steps for HazMat Endorsements

How do I renew my CDL?

Online

  • Your credential must be within the renewal period
  • You must be able to provide a valid MEC
  • You cannot add endorsements when renewing online
Save Time. Renew Online

In Person

CDL renewals are done in person at any driver license exam station.

  1. If you do not have your expiring license with you, you must provide proof of identity and, if your name has changed, documentation of name change.
  2. Be prepared to pay all applicable fees with cash, check, or credit card (U.S. funds only).
  3. You will be given a temporary license and receive your new hard copy license in the mail within approximately two to four weeks.
Schedule an Appointment

By Mail

Renewing by mail can only be done ever other time and is only allowed when:

  • You DO NOT have a hazardous materials endorsement 
  • You have an unexpired Medical Examiners Certificate on file with MVD
  • You are a Montana resident who is temporarily outside the state and will not return before the expiration of your Montana commercial driver license
  • You live in a county that does not provide driver license services (Carter, Garfield, Golden Valley, Jefferson, Judith Basin, Madison, Petroleum, Prairie, Treasure, and Wibaux)
Download CDL Renewal Form

Renewing a CDL with HazMat Endorsement

STEP ONE: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires drivers to submit a new application for a Security Threat Assessment.

  • You must begin by contacting a TSA agent at https://universalenroll.dhs.gov or 1-855-347-8371
  • You may submit your application for the Security Threat Assessment as early as six months, but NO LESS than 60 days before your CDL expires. The earlier you submit your application, the more likely it is that you will receive verification prior to your renewal appointment.
  • It can take 30-40 days for TSA background check to be on file with MVD.
  • MVD must have results available to proceed with testing and renewal.

 

STEP TWO: Once you receive the results of the Security Threat Assessment, you need to schedule a HazMat Knowledge Test and License renewal at a MT driver license exam station.