The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is the agency responsible for processing driving licences, vehicle-related procedures and related processes in the state of Montana. If you are a new resident in Montana , you will need to be aware of some of the processes and procedures necessary to get your vehicle documentation in order, as well as the driver’s own.
You can make an appointment with the Montana DMV online, over the phone, or in person at an office near you.
How do I book a Montana DMV appointment?
- Contact the Montana DMV at https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/.
- Choose from online services, driver’s license/ID, vehicle registration, or schedule an appointment.
- You can make an appointment, take a test, renew your driving licence or ID, request a duplicate, modification or payment.
- You can also check opening hours and access phone numbers.
- At some Montana DMV offices appointments will be available in person, at others via telephone services.
The Montana DMV has an appointment system for certain required in-person transactions that cannot be made online, by phone, or by mail.
Step-by-Step Guide to Montana DMV Appointments
- Going to the DMV. Always make an appointment before you go to the DMV. You can make an appointment on the DMV website, by calling 1-(800)-777-0133, or by using the DMV NOW app on your iPhone or Android device.
- Fill out a DL Form 44. This is the same form that all Montana driver’s license applicants use. Please do not enter any false information on this form. If you do not have the requested information, such as a valid social security number, leave this section blank. Provide all information requested.
- Pay the $33 application fee. Pay this money directly to the DMV while you are in the office. This is the only fee for the driving licence.
- Verify your identity and Montana residency. For more information about verifying your identity and residency in Montana , visit our FAQ page.
- Provide your fingerprints. Remember: DMV will not open an investigation into your immigration status. If you are already being investigated by
- Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), talk to a reputable attorney before applying for an AB 60 driving licence.
- Take a photo.
- Go through an eye exam. If you need glasses or contact lenses to see clearly, you must wear them while driving.
- Pass a written test. To help you pass the written test, take our free online course (currently only available in Spanish) and our free printable practice tests.
- Get your driving licence. An instructor’s license ONLY allows you to drive a vehicle IF the passenger seat is occupied by a person 18 years of age or older with a valid Montana driving licence. If you already have a driving licence, you can practice driving with a licensed adult driver until you feel confident to take and pass the driving test.
Is DMV in Montana taking walk-ins?
The Montana DMV will expand its Customer Service Center to include both appointments and walk-ins Monday through Friday. Here’s what you can expect before your next visit: Appointments and walk-ins will be available Monday through Friday, please check in advance by calling the Customer Service number to speak with a representative.
Best times to make an appointment with the Montana DMV
Here are some tips on the best times to visit the Montana DMV.
- Afternoons tend to be busier than mornings.
- Wait times are usually shorter in the middle of the week than on Mondays and Fridays.
- The Montana DMV office begins its lunch break around noon, leaving fewer employees. If possible, try to avoid the lunch hour.
- Make sure you have enough time to complete your paperwork, especially if you are getting your license or taking your driving test.
What to do at the Montana DMV
The Montana DMV is increasingly offering online services, so you can get things done without having to make an appointment at a physical office. You can renew your vehicle registration, change your driving licence, and much more online.
Here are some of the services you can perform at the Montana DMV from online appointments.
Real ID in Montana
Under the Real ID Act of 2005, each state has minimum security standards for the issuance and production of driver’s licenses and identification cards.
As of May 3, 2023, everyone will be required to carry a REAL ID card to enter certain federal buildings, access nuclear facilities, and board commercial flights within the United States.
REAL ID card requirements in Montana
- To obtain a REAL ID card in Montana , you can renew your driving licence or ID card online to obtain a new REAL ID card.
- If you have not previously obtained a Montana driving licence or ID card, go to a Montana DMV office.
- To apply for a REAL ID card, you will need to present an identification document that includes your date of birth and your real full name (Passport, birth certificate, address card, receipt).
- Make an appointment at a DMV service centre to obtain a Montana REAL ID card.
Steps to obtain a genuine identity document
REAL ID
- Gather the documents you will need to apply for a REAL ID.
- Complete the online application and upload your documents.
- Make sure you have saved the confirmation code.
- Go to a DMV office, keeping in mind the estimated capacity.
- Take the application confirmation code with you and process your REAL ID in Montana .
What to bring to your appointment at the Montana DMV
If you are applying for a Montana driving licence or a Montana traveler’s permit (REAL ID equivalent to a driver’s license or identification card), you will need to bring some documents to your Montana DMV appointment. If you bring all of your documents, the visit will be quicker and less hassle. Documents include:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence, such as a passport or birth certificate.
- Proof of your Social Security number, such as a Social Security card or W-2 form.
- Two documents proving your residency in Montana , such as a utility bill or a lease.
All documents must be originals and must be stamped if necessary. If you have already submitted some documents when you apply for an appointment online, you will need to bring primarily an ID or a driver’s licence, depending on the procedure you are performing.
Montana DMV Appointments
The Montana DMV has an online appointment system that makes it easy to schedule appointments for many services. Making an appointment at a DMV office is a good way to reduce waiting time: Montana DMV Appointment.
DMV Montana Driver’s License
Identification (ID) cards, like driving licences, are used to prove your identity or age, but they do not allow you to operate a motor vehicle.
To apply for an ID card, you must first fill out a driver license (DL) or ID card application and/or go to a DMV office to provide all the necessary documents and information.
Can I go to the DMV without an appointment Montana ?
The Montana Department of Motor Vehicles stated Monday that beginning March 2, all 75 of its service locations will accept appointments and walk-ins. According to the department, walk-ins will be accepted on Saturdays.
What do I need to bring to my DMV appointment Montana ?
Valid Montana driver’s license, recent utility bills, mortgage statement, or rental lease agreements with current residential street address rather than a P.O. Box. Sensitive financial information can be redacted (blacked out/whited out).
Can I make an appointment at the DMV?
At some DMV offices, you can make a reservation. Make sure you have everything you need to attend the DMV before making a reservation. We may not be able to assist you with your transaction if you do not have the relevant documentation. All available spaces are full while the reservation system indicates no reservations.
Can I register my car online in Montana ?
Your vehicle registration can be renewed online, over the phone, or by mail. Whenever you operate the vehicle, keep the registration card with you. Two license plates, two decals with the expiration date, and a registration card will be issued by the DMV.
How do I cancel my Montana DMV appointment?
If you have any questions, DMV officials suggest calling their customer service department at (804) 497-7100.
DMV Appointments Online
Montana DMV Offices
- Montana Department of Motor Vehicles
- 120 State Street
- Montpelier, VT 05603-0001
- DMV hours Vermont appointments: Monday through Friday from 7:45 am to 4:30 pm.
- Email: email
- Phone: 82828-2000
- Toll-free number: 888 99-VERMONT (888998-3766)
How to Get a Montana DMV Appointment
Montana dmv appointments can also be scheduled by phoning the DMV’s automated call service at (800) 777-0133, which is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Does Montana DMV take walk ins?
Walk-ins are also welcome. We would be delighted to accept your call if you have any questions, comments, or concerns.
How do I renew my drivers license in Montana?
By downloading the instructions page and Mail-in Renewal Standard License, you can renew your Montana driver license by mail (form 21-1900A). If you have any questions, call the Motor Vehicle Division Customer Care Center at (406) 444-1772 or e-mail the Motor Vehicle Division at mvd@mt.gov if you are out of state.
How long do you have to renew your drivers license after it expires?
Only three months before the license expires can it be renewed. If your license’s expiration date comes between March 1 and June 30, the table below will show you how it would effect your license. Make an appointment with any NDLS office to renew your license.
When can you get your license in Montana?
What is the minimum age to receive a Montana driver’s license? A full privileged driving license is available to all applicants aged 18 and over. With the written approval of their parent or guardian, a 16-year-old can apply for a learner license.
What do I need to get a driver’s license in Montana?
Proof of identity, authorized presence, and Montana residency are all required documentation for most services. Before approaching a driver license station, go over everything to make sure you have everything you need to complete your transaction.
How do I register my car in Montana?
- Fill out an application at the county treasurer’s office in the county where you live.
- Present your Montana registration receipt from the prior year or your out-of-state title
- You must pay all taxes and fees after the title process is completed, and your vehicle will be registered and license plates provided.
How much will my car registration be in Montana?
Light vehicles aged 0 to 4 years pay an annual fee of $217, 5 to 10-year-old vehicles pay an annual fee of $87, and those aged 11 years and older can either pay an annual fee of $28 or permanently register their vehicle for a one-time fee of $87.50, effectively aging them out of the registration fee.
Is there a grace period for expired drivers license in Montana?
While driving with an expired license is unlawful, Montana allows you to renew your license without having to go through the licensing process for three months following the expiration date.
How soon can you renew your drivers license in Montana?
How to Replace or Renew Your Montana Driver’s License. Your Montana driver license can be renewed up to 6 months before it expires. You lose your driving privileges at midnight on the expiration date if you do not renew before it expires.
Can a 14 year old drive in Montana?
To apply for a learner license, a minor must be at least 16 years old. Teens who are at least 14 12 years old and enrolled in or have completed an approved traffic education course are eligible to apply for a learners license.
How much is a drivers license in Montana?
A standard, non-commercial (Class D) license costs $40 for an eight-year period ($5 each year), plus a 50-cent fee for mailing the renewal reminder. A charge of $ 8 is required to apply for a state identification card.
Do I have to retake my drivers test if I move to Montana?
Do drivers who relocate to Montana need to retake the written test? Yes, you must pass the written test when transferring your out-of-state driver’s license to Montana.