FAQs
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LICENSE PLATES
1How many plates must be displayed on my vehicle?
Two plates are required in Montana. One displayed at the front of the vehicle, and one displayed at the back. Both plates must be clean and clearly visible. The back license plate must be illuminated when the vehicle lights are on. A registration tab displaying the month and year must be displayed on the rear plate.
2How do I obtain a license plate for a new vehicle?
Once you have titled and registered your vehicle and paid all taxes and fees, the county treasurer’s office gives you your plates. It usually takes about 30 days for all the paperwork to go through so that you can go the County Treasurer’s office and pick up your new license plates. Montana drivers can choose from a number of license plates, ranging from the standard plate to designs that reflect their military service or show their support for a Montana college or community organization. If the plates you want are not on hand, the county treasurer gives you a 40-day temporary permit.
3Are personalized plates available?
Personalized plates are available for an additional fee. If you want to personalize a sponsored plate, there are additional sponsor fees. For requirements and additional information, see the Application for Personalized License Plates (MV8). Always include three choices, not all choices will be approved and the fee is non-refundable.
4What are the standard plates?
Standard plates are issued to all vehicle owners unless they request a special plates. Montana law requires the issuance of new plates every five years. All available standard plates can be found here.
5Which vehicles qualify for Permanent Registration?
The owner of a light vehicle 11 or more years old may choose to permanently register the vehicle. This registration does not need to be renewed as long as ownership is unchanged. The fees collected at the time of permanent registration can be found here.
The registration period and the expiration date shown on the license plates for light vehicles are determined when the vehicle is first titled and registered in Montana, § 61-3-314, MCA. Please renew your license plates during the month shown on your license plates at the County Treasurer’s office in the county you reside in.
The registration period and the expiration date shown on the license plates for light vehicles are determined when the vehicle is first titled and registered in Montana, § 61-3-314, MCA. Please renew your license plates during the month shown on your license plates at the County Treasurer’s office in the county you reside in.
6What are sponsored plates?
License plates sponsored by qualified organizations, colleges or governmental bodies are designed with distinctive backgrounds, colors or phrases that identify the sponsoring organization. Sponsored plates are authorized under § 61-3-4, MCA. The cost of the plates and renewing them each year includes a donation that goes directly to the sponsoring organization. By purchasing these plates, people show their support for an organization and make a financial contribution to its work. The Specialty License Plate Donations list shows the quarterly total of donations collected for each sponsoring organization. Click here to view sponsored plates and review the eligibility requirements for each.
7Is it possible to purchase a Sponsored Plate if my vehicle qualifies for permanent registration?
Yes. By paying a one-time registration fee, light vehicles 11 or more years old, that may be permanently registered, and trailers that must be permanently registered may have sponsored plates that do not require registration renewal or a yearly donation fee. Some examples of plates that cannot be used for permanent registration include National Guard, reserve armed forces, and amateur radio. Sponsor plates requiring an annual certification for authorized use cannot be permanently registered. See individual sponsored plates for renewal requirements.
8Is it possible to replace a license plate that has been lost or damaged?
Yes, if a plate is lost or damaged, a customer may order a replacement set of plates at their local County Treasurer’s office. They will be required to pay all applicable fees.
9What are my options for Montana license plates?
Residents of Montana have nearly 200 plates to choose from. There are options for Standard Plates or Sponsored Plates. Look up all the available license plates here.
10How do I obtain a disability placard or license plate?
Have a licensed physician, physician’s assistant, chiropractor, or advanced practice registered nurse complete and sign the appropriate section of the Disability Permit/License Plate Application (MV5).
Complete and sign the remainder of the form.
Mail the completed form to the Motor Vehicle Division.
Permits are valid until the last day of the month and year indicated on the permit; submit the new application prior to the expiration date. To renew: complete the three steps listed above.
Recertification of a permanent disability is not required to renew physical disability plates.
11Can I transfer my current license plate to a different or new vehicle?
Yes, if a plate is lost or damaged, a customer may order a set of replacement plates at their local County Treasurer’s office. They will be required to pay all applicable fees..
12I tried to renew my registration online, but it isn’t working. Now what?
You can renew your registration by mail (you should have received a postcard reminder with registration info or visit your local County Treasurer’s office to register in person.
13How much will my registration be?
- Light Vehicle Registration and Fees (less than 1 ton)
- Motorcycle and Quadricycle Registration and Fees
- Snowmobile Registration and Fees
- Travel Trailer Registration and Fees
- Motor Home Registration and Fees
- Commercial and Heavy Vehicle Registration and Fees (more than 1 ton)
- Boat, Personal Watercraft and Motorized Pontoon Fees
- Trailer Registration and Fees
- Special Mobile Vehicles
14Will I need to show proof of insurance?
Although no proof of insurance is needed when registering your vehicle, Montana drivers are required to have proof of insurance with them when driving.
Buying and Selling a Vehicle
1I just bought a vehicle – now what?
If you’re purchasing a new or used vehicle in Montana, you’ll need to title and register it either online or with your local County Treasurer’s office. You’ll need to provide the vehicle’s title, valid identification, and pay any associated title and registration fees paid. If you’re purchasing a used vehicle, you’ll need to have the previous owner sign over the current title to you.
As the buyer, you have 40 days from the sale date to transfer the ownership of the vehicle to you. This is done by applying for the title to and registering the vehicle at the County Treasurer’s office in your county of residence. A late fee will be charged if you wait longer than 40 days.
As the buyer, you have 40 days from the sale date to transfer the ownership of the vehicle to you. This is done by applying for the title to and registering the vehicle at the County Treasurer’s office in your county of residence. A late fee will be charged if you wait longer than 40 days.
2What documentation is required when selling a vehicle?
- MT MVD has prepared a handy checklist for you to use when selling your vehicle. View it here.
- You cannot sell a vehicle in Montana unless it is titled and registered to you first. Once your name is listed on the title as the purchaser, Montana law requires you to title and register that vehicle before you can resell it.
- You must provide the purchaser with the most current, properly signed and interest released by ALL of the owners listed on the title. See notary requirements in the next FAQ section . The bill of sale does not replace a Montana title. If the vehicle's title has been lost, destroyed, or altered you will need to obtain a new one by completing an Application for Replacement Certificate of Title (MV7). This form can be filled out on your computer and printed or printed and completed manually. Mail the completed form and all associated fees to:
Montana Vehicle Services Bureau
P.O. Box 201431
Helena, MT 59620-1431
Replacement titles can take up to four weeks to receive. - If your title shows that there was a lien on the vehicle, you MUST provide the purchaser with a lien release. That document can only be obtained from the lending institution named as the lien holder on your title.
- Private sales are not reported to the State of Montana until the purchaser properly titles and registers the vehicle in their name(s) with MVD. Without proof of sale, you can be held liable for any parking tickets, fines, or fees acquired by the purchaser!
- Always remove your license plates. Be sure to remove your plates from the vehicle prior to handing over the keys. Do not allow the new owner to use your plates until the vehicle can be properly registered. vehicle but DON’T. It’s the purchaser’s responsibility to obtain a temporary registration permit until they can title and register the vehicle. The new owner can use the bill of sale or closed title to prove ownership to law enforcement in the interim.
3What are the notary requirements for buying or selling?
When transfer occurs between individuals, the transferor’s signature must be acknowledged before the county treasurer, a deputy county treasurer, an elected official authorized to acknowledge signatures, an employee or authorized agent of the department, or a notary public.
If there is a business listed in either an owner selling the vehicle or as a buyer, there is no notarization requirement even if there are additional owners or buyers who are individuals.
If there is a business listed in either an owner selling the vehicle or as a buyer, there is no notarization requirement even if there are additional owners or buyers who are individuals.
4What documentation do I need when giving a vehicle away?
You must provide the new owner with the most current title, properly signed by ALL of the owners listed on the title (see notary requirements above).
5What documentation do I need when donating a vehicle to charity?
The IRS guide on donating a car to charity can be found here https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p4303.pdf
Vehicle Titles
1How can I replace a missing title?
To sell your vehicle, you must be the owner of record and have the title in your possession. If you don’t have the title, the owner of record will have to apply for a replacement title from the state where the vehicle was last titled.
If you, the seller, are not the owner of record listed on the title, that person will need to sign the replacement title over to you once it’s received. You must then title and register the vehicle in your name prior to selling it.
EXCEPTION: If the vehicle: 1) was last titled in Montana; 2) is currently registered; and 3) is being sold to a Montana resident, the seller (i.e., the titled and registered owner) can give an Application for Certificate of Title for a Motor Vehicle (MV1), Bill of Sale (MV24), or an Application for Replacement Certificate of Title (MV7) and any associated fees to the buyer. These forms are available here on the Motor Vehicle Division website. Associated fees or additional requirements are listed on the forms.
2I recently paid off my car loan. How does this affect my title?
- The secured party will mail to the Vehicle Services Bureau and the owner(s)either:
- a completed RMV37 Lien Release (original document received from Lien Holder) or the generic Release of Security Interest or Lien (MV37A) or
- a security interest/lien release on the lien holders’ letterhead, signed by an authorized representative listing their capacity with the company and a complete vehicle description including the VIN.
- A new Montana title is not automatically issued once the secured parties have released their interest.
- Should the owner wish to have a new title issued without the security interest showing, the owner can submit an Application for Replacement Certificate of Title (MV7), and all associated fees to the Vehicle Services Bureau. The bureau then issues a clear title. Alternatively, the customer can bring their lien release to their local county treasurer’s office and request a replacement title with the lien holder removed.
3I recently moved to Montana. How do I transfer my title?
- Ask your County Treasurer for a Foreign Title Transfer (MV63). Complete and sign the form.
- Mail the form to the secured party, asking that your out-of-state title be released to your county treasurer’s office.
- When the county treasurer’s office receives the secured party’s request and the out-of-state title, you will then complete a title and registration in your local Montana county treasurers office. The New Montana title can then be sent to the out-of-state secured party if requested.
You would follow this same process if an out-of-state party is holding the title to your vehicle.
REAL ID
1What is REAL ID?
The federal REAL ID Act places new rules on which forms of identification may be used to board flights within the United States (U.S.) and enter secure federal facilities, such as military bases, federal courthouses, and other federal facilities. A Montana issued REAL ID driver license or identification card meets these new requirements and is marked with a gold star in the upper right-hand corner.
2Why would I need a Montana REAL ID credential?
It is your choice to get a REAL ID credential or not. Beginning May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID compliant driver license, identification card, or an acceptable alternative form of identification as approved by TSA, https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification, to board domestic commercial flights or enter a federal facility without a secondary form of Department of Homeland Security (DHS) approved identification.
3Will a Montana REAL ID credential replace my passport or work for international travel?
No REAL ID only works for travel within the United States. You will still need a passport for international travel.
4How do I get a Montana REAL ID credential?
Applying for a REAL ID requires proof of identity, proof of authorized presence, proof of Montana residency (two different documents are required to prove Montana residency), and a trip to MVD. There are only a few types of documents that are accepted. You can find a complete checklist of the documents here.
5How do I change the name on my REAL ID License or ID card?
You will be required to provide documents that show how you went from the name on your authorized presence documentation to the new name you are requesting.
6Can I get a REAL ID if it’s not time to renew my license?
Yes. You can get a REAL ID at anytime by making an appointment for an in-person visit. You will need to provide a completed application, have a new photo, provide the appropriate documentation, and pay the fee for a REAL ID credential. You can find a complete checklist of the documents here.
7Can I have a REAL ID credential and a standard credential at the same time?
No. Montana only allows for one credential at a time. You may have only one of the following:
- Driver license with REAL ID
- Standard driver license
- ID Card with REAL ID
- Standard ID card
8How much does a REAL ID credential cost?
There is an additional fee for obtaining a REAL ID credential.
9What documents will I need to obtain a REAL ID credential? What documents will I need to renew my REAL ID credential?
Applying for a REAL ID requires proof of identity, proof of authorized presence, proof of Montana residency (two different documents are required to prove Montana residency), and a trip to MVD. There are only a few types of documents that are accepted. You can find a complete checklist of the documents here.
10What if I cannot provide the appropriate documentation to obtain a REAL ID credential?
You will either have to accept the issuance of a standard credential, or you will need to contact the appropriate agency to get a certified copy of an accepted identity document. If you do not have the appropriate documentation, and you cannot obtain the appropriate documentation, please contact MVD Driver Services at 406-444-3933.
11How do I know if my credential is a REAL ID or not?
A Montana issued REAL ID driver license or identification card is marked with a gold star in the upper right-hand corner. Temporary (printed on paper) credentials or IDs are not REAL ID compliant.
12Does MVD keep the original documents I provide for verification?
No. We scan a copy and give the originals back to you.
Payment
1What forms of payment are accepted at MVD Driver Service offices?
All forms of payment (cash, checks, and most major credit cards) are accepted at all MVD offices.
2What forms of payments are accepted at local County Treasurer offices?
Please check with your local County Treasurer for acceptable payment methods
3Am I able to pay for online services if I do not have a credit or debit card?
Yes, you can enter your check information and payment will be made directly from your account for the amount authorized for the transaction.
4Do you accept Apple or Google Pay?
Not yet. MVD expects to add this service in the future.
Online Services
1What services are available online?
Online Services are found here.
- Schedule an appointment
- Pre-apply for a license, permit or state ID
- New Drivers can:
- Complete driver’s education pre-application
- View graduated driver license FAQ
- Renew or replace your license or ID
- Update your address
- Sign-up for electronic notices
- Purchase driving record
- Pay outstanding fees
- View Reinstatement Requirements
- Upload reinstatement documents
- Commercial Drivers can also:
- Submit or review their Medical Examiners Certificate
- View TSA background check status
- Downgrade Commercial drivers license
- Find info on transferring an out-of-state license
- Review online driver manual
- Vehicle Registration Renewal
- Search for Vehicle Records
2I completed my renewal online but haven’t received my updated registration, what should I do now?
Contact your local County Treasurer’s office to check in on the progress of your renewal.
Registration renewals being mailed outside of Montana may have longer transit times.
Registration renewals being mailed outside of Montana may have longer transit times.
Driver License
1Do I need to make an appointment?
An appointment is always recommended. Making an appointment is easy with MVDs online appointment scheduler.
2Can I have both a Driver License and Montana ID Card?
No. § 61-5-201(d), MCA states that Montana residents may only have one credential. You must choose between either a driver license (with or without REAL ID) or a state ID card (with or without REAL ID).
3How do I obtain a replacement license/ID?
- You can apply for renewal or replacement of a license/ID online here
- If your lost license is within six months of its expiration date, you may be eligible to apply for a renewal instead of replacement.
- If you need to replace your driver license or ID card, you may either apply online, make an in-person appointment at any driver license exam station, or you may apply for a replacement license by mail by downloading, completing and mailing in the Mail-in Replacement - All Driver Licenses (21-2000) and pay any fees associated with replacing a credential.
- MVD recommends reporting stolen driver license or identification cards to local law enforcement.
- If requesting a replacement credential with REAL ID, the existing credential must already be a REAL ID.
4How do I obtain a REAL ID Driver License or ID Card?
Applying for a REAL ID requires proof of identity, proof of authorized presence, proof of Montana residency (two different documents are required to prove Montana residency), and a trip to MVD. There are only a few types of documents that are accepted. You can find a complete checklist of the documents here.
5How do I change the name on my REAL ID License or ID card?
- Prior to changing your name on a driver license or ID card, your name must be changed through Social Security for at least 48 hours. Once that is complete, you must schedule an in-person appointment at a driver license exam station.
- You will be required to provide documents that show how you went from the name on your authorized presence documentation to the new name you are requesting.
- Applications for name change must be supported by a certified copy of one of the following documents:
- Marriage certificate from the issuing government jurisdiction
- Decree or judgment granting a name change from a court of competent jurisdiction
- Divorce decree or dissolution of marriage specifying change of name
- U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), certificate of naturalization (N-550, N-570) issued to the applicant
- Declaration of marriage filed with the district court clerk where the declaration was made
- Upon payment of the required fees and providing proof of name change documentation, an applicant may also apply for a replacement driver license in the legally changed name.
6How do I renew my license/ID?
- To be eligible to renew your Montana driver license online or by mail, you must:
- Hold a license that was renewed or issued in-person. Statute prohibits consecutive mail-in or online renewals.
- Have a valid Montana driver license that will expire in the next 6 months, or your driver license has been expired for no more than one year.
- Your license has not been suspended or revoked in any state.
- If applying to renew your CDL you must also provide a valid MEC or MMC
or be interstate excepted and your CDL cannot have a hazardous materials endorsement.
- To renew in person:
- Bring your expiring Montana driver license. If you do not have your expiring Montana driver license with you, you must provide proof of identity.
- If your name has changed, you must bring documentation of name change.
- Bring in medical and/or eye evaluations if needed.
- If you already have a REAL ID and are renewing, you do not need to bring documentation unless your name has changed. If your name has changed, you need to bring documentation of name change.
- Be prepared to pay all associated fees. Cash, checks and most major credit cards (U.S. funds only) payment accepted.
- You will be given a temporary license and receive your new license in the mail within approximately two to four weeks.
7How do I update my address or name on my Driver License or ID Card?
- To renew online, click here
- To renew by mail, please send in a completed Change of Driver License Address - Electronic Record (34-0300). There is no fee for updating your electronic record. This form is available
or at any driver license station. - If you want your new address on your standard driver license or ID card, you must make an appointment to visit a Montana driver license station and pay the associated replacement fee.
- If you are updating your address for a REAL ID credential, you must make an appointment to visit a Montana driver license station and pay the associated replacement fee.