Montana Driving Laws
Updated: September, 2024
Summary of common traffic laws in Montana – Speed limits, License Renewals, Learners Permits, Drunk Driving Laws, and more. For more information, visit the Montana State Highway Traffic Safety Office website.
Speed Limits
In Montana, the maximum speed limit for cars is 75 mph. The maximum highway speed for trucks is only 65 mph. Maximum speeds may only apply to small sections of designated roads - not all highways. Always observe posted traffic laws and drive safely for the weather and road conditions.
Learners Permits
Montana allows new drivers to get their learners permit at the age of 14 years and 6 months. You must have your provisional license for a minimum of 6 months. Drivers can then get their intermediate license at 15. An Intermediate License allows you to drive yourself without a qualified co-pilot in the car. However, driving restrictions still apply including the time-of-day you can drive and the maximum number of passengers allowed.
In Montana, drivers can obtain their full drivers license at the age of 16.
License Renewal
Montana requires you to renew your license every 4 years. If you are over a certain age, additional license renewal rules apply:
View all Drivers License Renewal Info
Work Zones
The state of Montana enforces increased penalties for all violations within work zones. These increased penalties are known as Work Zone Enhancements. Workers must be present and there must be signs idicating road work is in progress in order for Work Zone Enhancements to be enforced. In Montana, Work Zone Enhacements are:
Drunk Driving Laws
The legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is 0.08%. Driving while above the legal limit is called Driving Under the Influence. Driving while above certain BAC is called Driving while intoxicated and carries a heavier penalty. In Montana, driving with a BAC above 0.16% will trigger automatic enhanced minimum penalties.
Texting while Driving
Cellphones and other handheld devices are banned while driving in most states. In Montana, hand-held devices such as phones and mp3 player are are not banned. Handheld devices bans prohibit talking on the phone without a hands-free system.
Texting while driving is not banned in Montana. In Montana, distracted driving is listed as a category on police crash report forms.
Seat Belt Laws
Montana requires seabelt use. Seatbelt enforcement is concidered secondary, which means you cannot be pulled over for violating a seatbelt law. The fine for a seatbelt law violation in Montana is $20.00. Safety belt laws very state-by-state. Consult your states Department of Transportation for specific seatbelt use laws.
Data Source
Montana State Highway Traffic Safety Office
Data Source
United States Department of Transportation
