Official Montana Guide

Montana SR-22 Insurance

A complete roadmap to satisfying Montana MVD requirements. Compare rates, understand liability limits, and get your license reinstated today.

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Min. Liability

25/50/20

$25k BI / $50k Total / $20k PD

Mandate Term

3 Years

Required from date of reinstatement

Filing Fee

~$15 - $25

One-time administrative cost

How Montana SR-22 Filing Works

In Montana, the SR-22 is a "Certificate of Financial Responsibility." It is a digital document filed by your insurance carrier directly with the Montana Department of Justice (DOJ) Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). It provides legal proof that you carry the state's minimum required liability coverage (25/50/20) required to restore and maintain your driving privileges.

The "Re-Suspension" Trap

If your policy cancels or lapses for even one day, your carrier is legally required to file an SR-26 Notice. This triggers an immediate suspension of your license by the MVD and may reset your 3-year filing period.

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Who Needs to File in MT?

DUI / BAC Conviction: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is the primary reason for a mandate.
Uninsured Accident: Being involved in an accident while failing to maintain valid liability insurance.
Habitual Offender: Accumulating too many points or serious moving violations within a specific timeframe.
Unsatisfied Judgments: Failure to pay court-ordered damages resulting from an auto accident.

Don't Own a Car in Montana?

You can still get reinstated! A Montana Non-Owner SR-22 Policy covers you as a driver for any vehicle you borrow or rent. It satisfies the Montana MVD requirement and is typically much cheaper than a standard owner's policy.

Read our full guide on Non-Owner policies

The MT Reinstatement Timeline

Verify Requirements

Access the Montana MVD online portal to confirm your eligibility date and required reinstatement fees.

Secure SR-22

Purchase a policy with 25/50/20 limits. Your insurance carrier will electronically transmit the certificate to the MVD in Helena.

Pay Reinstatement Fee

Pay the mandatory fees (typically $100-$200) online or at a local Driver Exam Station to clear the administrative hold.

License Reissued

Once the SR-22 is logged and fees are processed, your driving privileges are officially restored in the state system.

The Cost of Non-Compliance

Driving while suspended or letting your SR-22 lapse carries severe penalties in Montana:

First Offense

Immediate License Suspension

Court Fines

Up to $500 + Court Costs

SR-22 Period

3-Year Clock Resets

Legal Risk

Possible Jail Time for Repeat Offenders

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Montana Filing FAQs

How much is the filing fee in Montana?

Most insurance carriers charge a one-time fee of $15-$25 to electronically file the certificate with the Montana MVD. This is separate from your monthly premium.

Can I drive out of state with a MT SR-22?

Yes. Your Montana SR-22 is valid nationwide. You must maintain the Montana-specific limits (25/50/20) to remain compliant with state law.

What is the difference between SR-22 and regular insurance?

An SR-22 is not insurance itself; it is a certificate of financial responsibility attached to your policy that notifies the MVD if your coverage lapses.

Can I get a Non-Owner policy in MT?

Yes, Montana allows Non-Owner SR-22 filings. It is often the most cost-effective way to restore your license if you do not own a vehicle.

Will my license be suspended if I miss a payment?

Yes. Montana law requires insurers to notify the MVD immediately (via SR-26) if your policy lapses, which triggers an instant automatic suspension.

How do I remove the SR-22 after 3 years?

Once your 3-year mandate expires, contact the Montana MVD to confirm the requirement is fulfilled. You can then instruct your insurer to remove the filing.

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