Montana Permit and Driver's License FAQ

  • Applying for Your MT License
  • Preparing for the MT Permit Test
  • Taking the MT Permit Test
  • Preparing for the MT Driving Test
  • Taking the MT Driving Test
  • Renewing Your MT License
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Applying for Your MT License: Frequently Asked Questions

What are the age requirements for getting started?

Teen drivers seeking to earn their Driver’s License in Montana must comply with the state’s Graduated Driver’s Licensing Program. The program includes four levels. Here are the age requirements for each level:

  • 14 ½ years old – Traffic Education Learner’s License (TELL) or Traffic Education Permit (TEP)
  • 15 years old – Learner’s Permit
  • Hold Learner’s Permit for 6 Months – Provisional License
  • Hold Provisional License for 1 year or turn 18 – Full Driver’s License

What documents am I required to bring with me when applying for a license in Montana?

You must provide proof of identify, residency and authorized presence in the U.S. Here is a list of acceptable documents that you can submit.

Where do I file my MT driver’s license application?

The Montana Department of Justice (DOJ) Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) handles driver licensing. Driver’s License Exam Stations are located throughout the state.

How can I contact my local office?

Call at 1-866-450-8034 or visit https://dojmt.gov/driving/driver-exam-stations/.

Do I have to take a Driver’s Ed Course?

Montana requires those younger than 16 to take driver’s education in order to obtain their Traffic Education Learner’s License (TELL).

What if I am new to Montana?

To transfer an existing out-of-state license to a Montana license, visit a local MT MVD office and provide proof of identity, residency and legal presence. You may also have to take a written test, driving test and vision test.

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Preparing for the MT Permit Test: Frequently Asked Questions

What subjects are commonly covered on the written test?

The Montana written test contains questions drawn from the content of its state Driver’s Manual. The questions cover traffic laws, road signs and safe driving methods. Here is an example of content from the manual that might be tested for on the exam:

  • You must yield the right-of-way to a police vehicle, fire engine, ambulance, or other emergency vehicle using a siren or air horn and a red or blue flashing light. Pull over to the right edge of the road or as near to the right as possible when you see or hear an emergency vehicle approaching from any direction.
  • The faster your vehicle is going, the more distance it will take to turn, slow, or stop. For example, stopping at 60 mph does not take twice the distance as it takes at 30 mph, but over three times the distance. Driving safely means adjusting your speed to road and traffic conditions, how well you can see, and obeying speed limits.

How is the test formatted?

The Montana test is presented in multiple choice format.

Are there a lot of “trick” questions on the written test?

No, all questions are drawn from the Montana Driver’s Manual and are designed to test your knowledge of the state’s traffic laws as well as safe driving procedures. None of the questions are expressly designed to “trick you.” If you study the manual thoroughly you should not be surprised by any of the questions on the test.

How many questions are on the test and how many do I need to answer correctly to pass?

There are 33 questions on the Montana written test and you can miss up to six and still pass.

What are the best ways to prepare for the written test?

Study the Montana Driver’s Manual and use practice tests to gauge your retention of the material and to identify weak areas that you need to study more. Also, when studying the manual try to memorize numerical figures, such as lengths, distances and measurements as these are often tested for on the exam.

Where can I get a free Montana Driver’s Manual to study?

Here at this website we offer free Montana Driver’s Manuals.

How can I improve my odds for passing the first time I take the test?

There is no substitute for studying the Montana Driver’s Manual. Be sure to read it several times and study it several more. Also, take practice tests online to assess your knowledge and see what areas you are particularly strong in and which areas you are weak in. Then you can use this information to make better use of your study time.

What should I do the night before the test?

Take a practice test and try not to miss any questions. If you do miss a question, go back and review your driver’s manual. Then take another practice test. After the second practice test, be sure to get to bed early so that you are fresh and clear minded on test day. Also be sure to give yourself plenty of time to get to your test so you are not feeling rushed which can negatively impact your performance.

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Taking the MT Permit Test: Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to make an appointment to take the written test?

Yes. Visit https://dojmt.gov/driving/appointments/ to schedule your appointment.

Where do I take the written test?

You will take the test at a Driver’s License Exam Station located near you.

What do I need to bring when I sit for the written test?

You must provide proof of identify, residency and authorized presence in the U.S. Here is a list of acceptable documents that you can bring with you. You will also need to show proof of driver’s education completion if you are 15 years old.

Who should accompany me to the written test?

A parent or legal guardian should accompany you.

Do I need to pay a fee to take the written test?

Yes, you will need to pay a fee. Check with your local Driver’s License Exam Station for the exact amount.

What should I expect when I sit for the written test?

The Montana written test includes 33 questions covering traffic laws, road signs and safe or defensive driving. You will need to answer at least 27 of the questions correctly to pass. You cannot refer to notes or the driver’s manual while taking the test. Here is a practice test formatted like the real Montana test.

What happens after I pass the written test?

You will receive your Learner’s Permit and can begin practice driving. You need to complete 50 hours of driving practice in all, with at least 10 of those hours coming at night.

What happens if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test.

How soon can I retake the written test?

You can only take the written test once per day, so you can take it the next business day if you so choose. However, it would be wise to take some time to study to ensure your pass on your next attempt.

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Preparing for the MT Driving Test: Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve passed the written permit test, what are the next steps?

You are now required to log 50 hours of behind-the-wheel driving practice. During this time, you can only drive with a parent, legal guardian or license driver age 18 or older. Also, of the 50 hours of driving practice that you need to accumulate, at least 10 of those hours need to be done at night.

How long after getting my Learner’s Permit can I apply for a license?

You can apply for your provisional license once you have met the following requirements: you have held your Learner’s Permit for at least 6 months; you have had no traffic violations or alcohol/drug offenses in the past 6 months; and you have completed 50 hours of supervised driving practice.

Can I drive anywhere in Montana with my Learner’s Permit?

Yes, you can drive on any Montana public road or street as long as you are accompanied by a parent, legal guardian or licensed driver age 18 or older.

Should I practice driving solely during the day?

No, Montana requires that you also complete at least 10 hours of driving practice at night.

Does anyone have to be in the car with me when I’m driving with my Learner’s Permit?

Yes, you must have a licensed driver age 18 or older in the front passenger seat.

What should I do if I have a lost Montana Learner’s Permit?

If your permit is lost or stolen, you may apply for a replacement at your local licensing station. You will be required to pay a fee and present the proper identification.

How can I be sure I’m prepared to ace the driving test?

You should try to log as much driving practice time as possible and be sure to stay focused and attentive at all times when behind the wheel. In addition, read your driver manual for safe driving tips and listen to your supervising driver and try to institute their tips and suggestions as you drive.

Are there particular driving maneuvers I should practice?

You will need to know how to drive forward and backward smoothly and accurately; how to park on a hill and in a parking space; how to change lanes; how to drive in traffic; how to turn; how to stop and start; and more.

How can I simulate the driving test?

You should practice starting, stopping, making two and three-point turns, changing lanes, parking, backing up, obeying traffic signals and signs and entering and leaving an intersection as these are all commonly tested for on the driving test.

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Taking the MT Driving Test: Frequently Asked Questions

How do I schedule my driving test?

Visit https://dojmt.gov/driving/appointments/ to schedule your appointment.

Where do I take the driving test?

You will take the test at a Driver’s License Exam Station located near you.

What should I bring to the driving test?

  • Your valid Learner’s Permit
  • Completed Driver’s License Application
  • Proof of driving practice hours
  • Identification
  • $5 for the yearly driver’s license fee
  • A vehicle that you are familiar with and that is in proper working order
  • Vehicle Registration and proof of insurance

Who should bring me to the driving test?

A licensed parent or legal guardian should bring you.

What will I be asked to do on the driving test?

You will be asked to complete a maneuver course that may include: three-point turns, starting and stopping, signaling, parking and more. You will also be asked to drive in traffic where you will need to display good defensive driving skills, such as checking your mirrors and following at a safe distance.

What are the most common reasons new drivers fail the driving test?

Among the most common reasons new drivers fail their driving test are: nerves; failing to listen to the examiner; not checking mirrors when turning or changing lanes; and simply not practicing enough for the test.

What are five mistakes I should be sure to avoid when taking the driving test?

  • Going over the speed limit
  • Turning or backing up too fast and losing control the vehicle
  • Following too closely to the car in front of you
  • Failing to check the blind spot when changing lanes
  • Having hands in an improper position on the steering wheel

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the test.

How soon can I retake the test?

You can retake it as soon as the next day if an appointment is available. However, your examiner may suggest you practice more before retaking the test.

I’ve passed the road test, now what?

You will receive your restricted/provisional license.

What restrictions come with a Montana license?

You may only drive unsupervised between the hours of 5 a.m. and 11 p.m. unless for an emergency, work, church or a parent-authorized reason.

You may only drive with one non-family member passenger under 18 years of age for the six months unless you are supervised by a licensed driver age 18 or older

After the first six months, you can have only three non-family passengers under 18 years of age unless accompanied by a licensed driver age 18 or older.

The provisional license becomes a full, unrestricted license when you turn 18 or have held the license for one year.

What are the insurance requirements for drivers in MT?

To protect drivers from the often overwhelming costs associated with traffic accidents, the state of Montana requires motor vehicle operators to carry at least the following minimum insurance coverage: $25,000 in coverage for bodily injury per person; $50,000 for bodily injury of multiple people; and $10,000 for property damage.

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Renewing Your MT License: Frequently Asked Questions

What if I need to renew my license or replace a lost/stolen license?

You can renew your Montana license up to six months before the expiration date. You can renew in person. Also residents in certain counties may be able to renew by mail.

If your license is lost or stolen, you may apply for a replacement at your local licensing station. You will be required to pay a $10 fee and present the proper identification.

Where can I renew my Montana driver’s license?

Most state residents must renew in person at a local licensing station. However, some counties allow residents to renew by mail. Contact your local licensing station for more information

Will I be required to take a vision test when renewing my license?

Yes, you must take a vision test when renewing your license in person. The exam will test for acuity, depth perception and color blindness. To pass you must have at least 20/40 vision. You will be tested for vision in each eye separately and then both eyes together.

If you fail the test, you will be given Report Form DL-63 and asked to take it to an eye specialist.

The Montana MVD Written Test — What You Need to Know

Can’t wait to get behind the wheel and enjoy your new freedom? Before the state can issue you a learner’s permit you need to pass the permit test at your local Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) office.  This written test is designed to verify your knowledge of traffic signals and signs, safe driving practices, and other important rules of the road.

Develop Your Knowledge With MT MVD Practice Permit Tests

The unprepared have found the permit test to be quite a challenge.  In fact, statistics have reported that 70% fail the test.  Doesn’t sound like good odds to us.  Why chance leaving the MVD office empty-handed when you can prepare with our study material.

On this page, you’ll find our free Montana practice permit test as well as the official Montana Driver’s Manual.  Together you’ll find they will provide you with the information and practice needed to prepare for the test.  Getting a motorcycle permit? We offer solutions to help you with that test too.  No matter what test you are taking, preparing with the right tools is your key to success.  Passing the Montana permit test is the first step towards your own independence.

Montana Driver's License Guide