In 2025, Montana has updated and streamlined its driver’s license renewal process, introducing several important changes that drivers need to know. These changes aim to improve convenience, enhance security, and ensure compliance with federal Real ID standards. Understanding the new requirements is essential for Montana drivers to avoid fines, lapses in driving privileges, and delays.
When and How Can You Renew Your License?
Montana residents can now renew their driver’s licenses up to six months in advance of the expiration date. This flexibility helps drivers avoid last-minute renewals and potential lapses in driving privileges.
For drivers aged 21 to 63, renewal can be completed online, by mail, or in person.
Drivers under 21 or 75 and older must renew their licenses in person due to additional verification requirements.
If a license has expired, drivers have a one-year grace period to renew before needing to retake written and driving tests to regain licensure.
These options accommodate different preferences and circumstances, aiming to make renewal as convenient as possible.
Online and Mail Renewal Requirements
To renew online or by mail, Montana drivers must meet specific eligibility criteria:
Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must be within the renewal window (6 months before or 1 year after expiration).
The previous renewal must not have been done online or by mail.
Must not have any license suspensions or revocations in Montana or other states.
Online renewal does not allow updating photos or signatures; the system uses the last photo on file.
Mail renewals require completing specific forms, including the Renewal Non-Commercial License packet, payment via check or money order, and mailing to Montana’s Department of Justice Motor Vehicle Division headquarters. Temporary licenses are issued for 90 days while the permanent license is mailed, typically arriving within 2-6 weeks.
In-Person Renewal Requirements
Drivers not eligible or choosing not to renew online or by mail must renew in person at local MVD offices or authorized agents. In-person renewals require:
Bringing the expiring or expired license.
Providing proof of identity if the license is lost or expired beyond the grace period.
Presenting documents for name changes if applicable.
Passing required vision tests.
Paying renewal fees.
Drivers receive a temporary license valid for 90 days until their new one arrives by mail.
Real ID and Identification Changes
Montana now issues licenses that comply with the federal Real ID Act. Drivers opting for a Real ID need to provide additional documentation such as proof of identity, Social Security Number, and Montana residency. Real IDs can be used for federal purposes such as boarding commercial aircraft, whereas standard licenses cannot.
Important Reminders and Penalties
Driving with an expired license results in a loss of driving privileges after midnight on the expiration date. Drivers should start the renewal process early to avoid legal complications.
Failure to renew within the one-year grace period requires retaking the driving skills and written permits, adding time and cost. Additionally, Montana imposes late fees for renewals submitted past expiration.
The 2025 overhaul of Montana’s driver’s license renewal system offers expanded options and enhanced security features. Montana drivers should review these changes carefully, choose the best renewal option, and act well before their expiration date to maintain uninterrupted driving privileges.
Sources
(https://mvdmt.gov/renew-license-id/)
(https://opi.mt.gov/Educators/Licensure/Educator-Licensure/Renew-Update-Advance-License)
(https://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/medical-examiners/license-information/renewal-process)
(https://mvdmt.gov/required-documents/)
(https://mt.mvdexpress.com/services/drivers-license-renewals/)
