What you need to do to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Montana driver's license
If your Montana driver's license is lost, stolen, damaged, or worn out, you can get a replacement without retaking the written or road test. You'll go through the Montana Department of Justice, Motor Vehicle Division — the same office that issued your original license. The process is faster than getting your first license because you've already passed the tests; you're just getting a new card with the same information.
You can replace your license in person at any Motor Vehicle Division office, or by mail if your license is straightforward worn out or you need a duplicate for a second copy. The cost is the same either way, and your replacement will have the same class and restrictions as your current license.
Key Takeaways
- You can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Montana driver's license at any Motor Vehicle Division office without retaking any tests.
- In-person replacement takes about 30 minutes and you'll receive your new license the same day.
- Mail-in replacement is available only if your license is worn out or you want a duplicate, and takes about two weeks.
- You'll need a valid form of identification and proof of Montana residency to replace your license in person.
- The replacement fee is the same whether you go in person or by mail, and your new license will be valid for the same expiration date as your original.
Replacing your license in person at a Motor Vehicle office
Walk into any Montana Motor Vehicle Division office with your identification and proof of residency. You don't need an appointment. Bring a document that shows your current address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. If you don't have one, bring two documents that show your name and address together, such as a vehicle registration and insurance card.
Tell the clerk you need a replacement license. They'll pull up your record using your name and date of birth, verify the information on your current license (or take your word for it if the license is lost or stolen), and take a new photo. You'll pay the replacement fee and walk out with your new license in your hand the same day. The whole process usually takes 20 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the office is.
If your license was stolen, you may want to report the theft to local police first and bring a copy of the report, though it's not required. This protects you if someone tries to use your old license number for fraud.
Replacing your license by mail
Mail-in replacement is only for licenses that are worn out, faded, or illegible — not for lost or stolen licenses. You'll need to send in your current license along with a completed form and payment. Contact the Motor Vehicle Division to request the mail-in form, or read it from the Montana Department of Justice website.
Mail your completed form, your current license, and payment to the address provided on the form. Processing takes about two weeks from the day the office receives your envelope. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file. If you need your license faster, go in person instead.
What identification and documents you'll need
For in-person replacement, bring one valid form of identification — a passport, military ID, tribal ID, or another government-issued ID with your photo. If you don't have a photo ID, bring two documents that show your name and date of birth, such as a birth certificate and Social Security card.
You'll also need proof that you live in Montana. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or vehicle registration dated within the last 60 days all work. If you've recently moved and don't have a document with your new address yet, bring two documents showing your name — one with your old address and one with your new address — and explain the move to the clerk.
If you're replacing a license by mail, you don't need to bring identification; just send your current license with the form and payment.
The replacement fee and how long your new license lasts
The replacement fee varies depending on your license class and whether you're renewing at the same time. A standard Class D replacement (for regular passenger vehicles) costs less than a Class A or B replacement (for commercial driving). Ask the clerk or check the Motor Vehicle Division website for the exact fee before you go in.
Your replacement license will be valid until the same expiration date as your original license. If your original license was set to expire in six months, your replacement will also expire in six months — you're not getting extra time. If you're close to your expiration date, you may want to renew at the same time you replace, which costs a bit more but gives you a fresh license valid for another full term.
What to do if your license was stolen
If your license was stolen rather than lost, tell the Motor Vehicle Division clerk when you explore for the replacement. They'll flag your old license number in the system so it can't be used. You don't have to file a police report, but doing so creates a record in case someone tries to use your stolen license for fraud.
If you're worried about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting any one of them. This makes it harder for someone to open accounts in your name.
Where to find a Motor Vehicle Division office near you
Montana has Motor Vehicle Division offices in most towns and cities. The main office is in Helena, but you can visit any location — you don't have to go to the one that issued your original license. Check the Montana Department of Justice website for the office nearest you, along with hours of operation. Some offices are open Monday through Friday only; a few have limited Saturday hours.
If you live far from any office, mail-in replacement (if your license is worn out) or ordering online may be your best option. Call the Motor Vehicle Division directly if you have questions about which office is closest or whether they can handle your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive while I wait for my replacement license?
If you replaced your license in person, you have your new license when ready and can drive right away. If you're waiting for a mail-in replacement, you can drive with your old license until the new one arrives, as long as your old license hasn't expired. If your license was stolen and you're worried about it being used, ask the Motor Vehicle Division for a temporary paper license to carry while you wait.
What if I've moved out of Montana since I got my original license?
You can't replace a Montana license if you no longer live in Montana. You'll need to get a driver's license from your new state instead. Contact your new state's motor vehicle office to find out what documents you'll need and whether you can transfer your Montana license or have to take the written test again.
Do I have to take a new photo for my replacement license?
Yes, the Motor Vehicle Division will take a new photo when you replace your license in person. If you're replacing by mail, they'll use the photo from your current license. If you want a new photo but are replacing by mail, you'll have to go in person instead.
Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?
No. You must be present to explore for a replacement license in person. If you're replacing by mail, the new license will be mailed to the address on file, so you don't have to be there to receive it — anyone at that address can open the envelope.
What if my replacement license arrives damaged or with wrong information?
Contact the Motor Vehicle Division right away with a photo of the damage or the incorrect information. They can issue another replacement at no extra cost. Bring your damaged license in person, or mail it back with a note explaining the problem.