Vehicle Registration in Montana: A Comprehensive Guide
Registering your vehicle in Montana is a straightforward process managed by the Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). Whether you are a new resident, a current resident with a new vehicle, or a commercial vehicle owner, understanding the registration requirements and procedures is essential. This guide provides detailed information on how to register your vehicle in Montana, including necessary documentation, fees, and where to complete the process.
Who Needs to Register?
Under Montana state law, all motor vehicles must be registered, including:
- Motor homes
- Motorcycles and quadricycles
- Travel trailers and utility trailers
- All-terrain vehicles (ATVs)
- Sailboats over 12 feet in length
- Motorboats, jet skis, and other motorized watercraft
- Snowmobiles
Pickup campers are an exception—they must be titled but are not registered.
Registration Requirements
New Residents
New residents must apply for a Montana vehicle title and register their vehicles within 60 days of establishing residency. This process involves visiting your local county treasurer’s office with the necessary documentation.
Montana Residents Moving to Another County
If you move to a different county within Montana, you can continue using your current plates until your annual registration renewal is due. At that time, you must renew your registration and update your address with the new county treasurer’s office.
Military Personnel
Non-resident military personnel stationed in Montana may choose to register their vehicles in their home jurisdictions or in Montana. If they are gainfully employed outside of their military duties, they must title and register their vehicles in Montana.
Non-Residents
Non-residents who are gainfully employed in Montana must present their current out-of-state vehicle registration to the county treasurer’s office and pay the necessary taxes and fees.
How to Register Your Vehicle
- Gather Required Documents:
- Vehicle title
- Proof of insurance
- Valid driver’s license
- Previous registration receipt (if applicable)
- Payment for registration fees
- Visit Your Local County Treasurer’s Office:
- All vehicle registration transactions are conducted at the county treasurer’s office. You can find your local office by visiting the Montana MVD website.
- Complete the Registration Process:
- Submit the required documents and pay the applicable fees. The registration fees are in addition to the county option tax and any special plate fees for personalized or specialty plates.
Online Services
Montana residents can also renew their vehicle registration online. To do this, you will need:
- Proof of insurance
- A valid driver’s license
- Payment for the renewal fee
For more details and to access the online renewal portal, visit the Montana MVD Vehicle Registration page.
Special Registration Situations
Montana has specific rules for special registration situations, such as:
- Registering a vehicle with a salvage title
- Registering a leased vehicle
- Registering a vehicle with personalized or specialty license plates
These situations may require additional documentation and fees. It is important to be aware of the specific requirements for each situation to ensure a smooth registration process.
Contact Information
For further assistance or questions regarding vehicle registration, you can contact the Montana Motor Vehicle Division:
- Visit the Montana Department of Justice Vehicle Title and Registration page
- Call the Motor Carrier Services Division at 406-444-6130 for interstate licensing and registration questions.
By following these guidelines, you can efficiently register your vehicle in Montana and ensure compliance with state laws and regulations.
