Big Sky Driver: Your Complete Guide to a Montana Driver's License

Getting your driver's license in Big Sky Country is a major milestone, unlocking the freedom to explore everything from the peaks of Glacier National Park to the vibrant city of Billings. The journey to becoming a licensed driver involves several key stages managed by the Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD).

This comprehensive guide will serve as your roadmap, breaking down Montana's Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program for teens and outlining the process for adults, ensuring you arrive at the MVD confident and prepared for every step.

For Teen Drivers (Under 18): The Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Program

To ensure young drivers gain experience in a safe, controlled manner, Montana has a GDL program. This system is designed to gradually introduce teens to more complex driving situations as they gain skills and maturity.

Step 1: The Learner License

This is the very first stage, allowing a new driver to learn and practice on the road with a supervising adult.

Who is eligible?

• You must be at least 14 years and 6 months old if enrolled in a state-approved traffic education course.
• You must be at least 16 years old if not enrolled in a traffic education course.

How to get your Learner License:

1. Gather Your Documents: You will need to bring several key original documents to the MVD, including proof of identity (like a birth certificate), Social Security number, and two proofs of Montana residency.
2. Visit a Driver Exam Station: You must apply in person. It's highly recommended to schedule an appointment online. At your visit, you will:
   • Submit your application and all required documents.
   • Have a parent or legal guardian present to provide written consent.
   • Pay the required permit and testing fees.
   • Pass a vision screening.
3. Pass the Written Knowledge Test: You must pass a 33-question written test based on the "Montana Driver Manual." You must answer at least 27 questions correctly to pass.

Rules of the Road with a Learner License:

• You must hold the permit for a minimum of six months before you can apply for a restricted license.
• You must always be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 18 years old and is seated in the front passenger seat.
• You must log 50 hours of supervised driving, including at least 10 hours at night. This must be documented and certified by your parent or guardian.

Step 2: The First-Year Restricted License

After holding your permit for six months and logging your practice hours, you are eligible for a restricted license.

Who is eligible?

• You must be at least 15 years old if you have completed a traffic education course.
• You must be at least 16 years old if you have not completed a traffic education course.
• You must have held your learner license for at least six months, conviction-free.

How to get your Restricted License:

The final step is to pass the driving skills test (road test). Once you pass, you will be issued your first-year restricted license.

GDL Restrictions on a Restricted License:

• Nighttime Curfew: You cannot drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless for work, school, an emergency, or accompanied by a licensed driver 18 or older.
• Passenger Restrictions: For the first six months, you are not permitted to have more than one passenger under the age of 18, unless they are an immediate family member. After the first six months, you may have up to three passengers under 18.

These restrictions are lifted after you have held the license for one year.

For Drivers 18 and Over

If you are 18 or older and applying for your first Montana license, the process is more direct.

1. Visit a Driver Exam Station: Make an appointment and bring your original documents for a REAL ID.
2. Pass the Tests: You must pass the vision screening and the written knowledge test. You will then be issued a learner license.
3. Take the Road Test: After practicing with your permit, you must schedule and pass the road test. There is no minimum holding period for an adult learner license.
4. Pay the Fee and Get Your License: Once all tests are passed and documents are verified, you'll pay the licensing fee and receive your full driver's license.

New to Montana? Transferring Your License

If you move to Montana and hold a valid driver's license from another U.S. state, you must obtain a Montana license within 60 days of establishing residency.

• Make an appointment at a driver exam station.
• Surrender your out-of-state license.
• Provide full documentation for a REAL ID.
• Pass a vision screening.
• The written test and road test are waived if your out-of-state license is valid and not expired.

By understanding these steps and preparing for each one, you can successfully navigate the process and earn the privilege of driving in Big Sky Country.