Registration Renewals

1) Determine the Status of Your Registration

You must renew your registration every 12 months.

Renew MT Registration

You need a current registration to legally drive within the state. You must also have a valid auto liability policy that meets the state's requirements. If you need to obtain a policy, or are thinking about switching providers, visit our Insurance Center to find carriers and compare rates.

Scroll to our "Check Your Renewal Notice" below to learn about your renewal options.

Register a Vehicle in MT for the First Time

If you just bought a vehicle or moved to the state, you'll need to complete an initial registration. Please see our main registration page for instructions on how to do this.

Register a Non-Operational Vehicle

The state doesn't have any special provisions for registering a non-operational vehicle. If you choose to register it or renew its registration, you'll follow the same procedures as those with operational vehicles.

2) Check Your Renewal Notice

About a month before your registration expires, you should receive a renewal notice in the mail which includes your fee information.

You're not required to have this notice to renew, and even if you didn't get it you still must renew your registration. Call the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) at (406) 846-6000 if you're concerned about not receiving your notice.

3) Calculate Your Fees

Registration fees vary according to where you live, and the weight and age of your vehicle. This is similar to how insurance rates vary.

Avoid Late Fees and Penalties

You must renew your registration by the last day of the month in your registration period. You won't have to pay a late fee if you're tardy, but a police officer can cite you for a traffic violation for driving with an expired plate.

4) Renew Online, In Person, or By Mail

Renew Online

Because the state doesn't offer this option, you must renew your registration in person or by mail.

In Person

1. Have your current registration, renewal card, title number, vehicle identification number (VIN), or license plate number.
2. Have cash or a check to pay the appropriate fee.
3. Go to your county treasurer's office.

By Mail

1. Find the renewal form.
2. Follow the instructions provided.
3. Mail the renewal card along with your payment to the address listed.

You should receive your renewal material in about two weeks.

5) Affix Your Stickers

After you receive your stickers, follow the instructions provided to properly place them on your plates.

6) Get a Tax Deduction

Your county option fee (listed on your renewal card) is tax deductible because it's based on the estimated value of the vehicle, acting as a property tax.

See our Registration FAQs page or perhaps talk to a tax attorney to learn more about this matter.

7) Do Your Part to Keep Our Roadways Safe

It's great to have your renewal task behind you, but don't forget about your duty to keep the roads safe for yourself and your fellow travelers. Maintaining your vehicle in its best shape possible is one way to accomplish this.

You can start with having regular oil changes, tire rotations, and tune-ups performed. Be sure to replace your tires whenever the tread depth requires it.

Finding a qualified, dependable mechanic who is able to handle these routine matters while spotting any developing problems is a big plus. Investing in an after-market warranty may seem expensive at first, but can save you money over time on otherwise costly repair bills.

Of course, no matter how well you maintain your car, emergencies do happen. Having a roadside assistance program can help you deal with these sometimes dangerous situations as best as possible.