License Plate FAQs

While four-wheelin', I slammed my truck into a stump, bending my front license plate like an under-baked soft pretzel. Do I need to replace it?

Afraid so. You'll need to complete an aptly named Application for Duplicate License Plate and drop it off with your county treasurer. Cost: $5.

I lost my plates. They're gone. Nowhere to be found. Now what?

No problem. Visit your your county treasurer and complete an Application for Duplicate License Plate and pay a $5 fee. That's it. Nothing more.

If I permanently register my motor home are there are any license plate restrictions?

You can pretty much request any standard or specialized license plate. The lone exceptions are: Montana National Guard plates; Reserve Armed Forces plates; collegiate plates; generic specialty plates; and amateur radio operator plates.

If I permanently registered my vehicle before Montana's new plate design debuted in 2006 can I apply for new plates?

Sure. You'll need to bring your old plates bearing the permanent registration tab to your county treasurer. You'll also be asked to pay three $5 fees: new issue, replacement plate, duplicate permanent tab.

Can I permanently register sponsored license plates?

No. Sponsored plates must be renewed annually. If this rubs you wrong, take solace in knowing that a portion of your renewal fee goes to your plate's sponsoring organization.

How does an organization apply for a sponsored license plate?

First, submit an Organization's Application to Sponsor a Specialty License Plate. If approved (it could take up to 8 weeks to receive an answer) you will need to make a decision on payment. You can either pay $4,000 up front, or in lieu of the fee, submit a minimum of 400 prepaid applications for your specific sponsored plate.

Does Montana offer antique license plates?

It does, but under the names of "Pioneer" and "Vintage" plates. Your vehicle qualifies if it is over 30 years old and used only as a collector's item. In other words, it can't be used for your general transportation needs.

To apply, submit the aptly named Application for Registration of a Vintage or Pioneer Vehicle.

Do I have to return my Montana plates after relocating to another state?

No.