Montana driver's license renewal basics
In Montana, you can renew your driver's license by mail, online, or in person at a Driver Services office. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time you have before expiration, and whether you need to update your photo. Most renewals take about two weeks by mail and a few minutes online or in person.
Your Montana license is valid for eight years from the date it was issued. You'll see the expiration date printed on the front of your card. Montana sends renewal reminders by mail about 60 days before expiration, but you don't have to wait for that notice to start the process.
Key Takeaways
- Montana offers three renewal methods: online (fastest), in person at a Driver Services office, or by mail, each with different requirements and timelines.
- Online renewal is only available if your license hasn't expired, you're under 21, or you don't need a new photo, and costs $20 for an eight-year license.
- In-person renewal at a Driver Services office requires proof of identity and residency and takes a few minutes, with the new license issued on the spot.
- Mail renewal requires a completed process form, payment, and copies of supporting documents, and typically takes two to three weeks.
- If your license has been expired for more than three years, you must renew in person and may need to pass a written test.
Online renewal through Montana's website
The fastest way to renew is through the Montana Department of Justice Driver Services website. Online renewal takes about five minutes and your new license arrives by mail in roughly two weeks. You'll pay $20 for an eight-year renewal.
You can only renew online if all of these are true: your current license hasn't expired, you're not changing your name or address, you don't need a new photo, and you're 21 or older. If any of those conditions don't explore to you, you'll need to use the mail or in-person method instead.
To renew online, you'll need your current Montana driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card). The system will verify your information against state records. Once approved, your new license will be mailed to the address on file.
In-person renewal at a Driver Services office
Renewing in person is the best choice if you need a new photo, are changing your address or name, or want your new license when ready. Montana Driver Services offices issue licenses on the spot, so you walk out with your new card the same day.
You'll need to bring proof of identity (your current license, passport, or birth certificate) and proof of Montana residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). The office will take a new photo and process your renewal while you wait. The cost is $20 for an eight-year license.
Driver Services offices are located in most Montana counties. You can find the office nearest you and check hours on the Department of Justice website. Walk-ins are accepted, but some offices have wait times during busy periods. Calling ahead to ask about current wait times can help you plan your visit.
Mail renewal by process form
Mail renewal works if your license is still valid and you don't need a new photo. You'll complete the renewal process form (DL 40), include payment, and mail everything to the Driver Services office. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date they receive your process.
You'll need to include a copy of proof of identity and proof of Montana residency with your process. Acceptable documents are the same as for in-person renewal: a utility bill, lease, bank statement, or other official mail showing your current address. Make copies rather than sending originals, since the state will keep them with your file.
Mail your process and documents to the Montana Department of Justice Driver Services at the address listed on the form. Include a check or money order for $20 (they do not accept credit cards by mail). Your new license will be mailed to the address on your process once processing is complete.
What to do if your license has expired
If your Montana license expired less than three years ago, you can still renew by mail or in person using the standard process. You cannot renew online if your license has expired, regardless of how recently.
If your license has been expired for more than three years, you must renew in person at a Driver Services office. You may also be required to pass the written knowledge test, depending on how long it has been since your license was valid. Call the Driver Services office before you go to ask whether you'll need to take the test, so you can study if necessary.
Name changes and address updates
If you're changing your name or address, you cannot use online renewal. You must renew in person or by mail. For a name change, bring a certified copy of the document that shows your new name: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. For an address change, bring proof of your new Montana address dated within the last 60 days.
If you're moving out of Montana, you should update your address with the Driver Services office before you leave. Your Montana license remains valid in other states, but keeping your address current ensures you receive important mail from the state.
Renewal fees and payment methods
A standard eight-year Montana driver's license renewal costs $20. This is the fee for all renewal methods: online, in person, and by mail. There are no additional processing fees or hidden charges.
Online and in-person renewals accept debit cards, credit cards, and cash (in person only). Mail renewals require a check or money order. Do not send cash by mail. If you're renewing by mail and paying by check, make it payable to the Montana Department of Justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Montana license before it expires?
Yes. You can renew your license up to one year before the expiration date using any method. Renewing early doesn't change your expiration date — your new license will expire eight years from the date you renew, not eight years from your old expiration date.
What if I lost my current license?
You'll need to replace it before you can renew. Visit a Driver Services office in person with proof of identity and residency. The replacement fee is $10, and you'll receive a new license on the spot. You can then renew when that license is due to expire.
How long does it take to receive a renewed license by mail?
Processing typically takes two to three weeks from the date the Driver Services office receives your process. Mail delivery adds another few days on each end, so plan for three to four weeks total from the time you mail your process to the time your new license arrives.
Do I need a new photo for my renewal?
Not necessarily. If you renew by mail or online, your old photo will be used. If you want a new photo or your old one is damaged, renew in person at a Driver Services office. They'll take a new photo as part of the in-person renewal process.
What happens if I renew but my address changes before the new license arrives?
Contact the Driver Services office and provide your new address. They can update your mailing address in the system so your license is sent to the correct location. Call the office listed on your renewal confirmation to make this change.