Identification Cards in Montana

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SUMMARY: Montana Identification Cards

To apply for a MT identification card, you must visit a MVD office and provide proof of your residency, identity, lawful U.S. presence, and pay the required fee. Renewals must be completed in person. If you've lost or damaged your ID card, you will need to re-apply.

This page will help you obtain an ID card from the Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD).

REAL ID Requirements in Montana

The Montana MVD complies with the REAL ID Act of 2005, meaning it provides first-time driver license and ID card applicants with REAL ID-compliant credentials. REAL ID driver’s licenses meet the federal identification requirements required for tasks such as entering federal buildings and boarding domestic commercial flights. Without a REAL ID, you'll need to bring your passport or birth certificate for such activities after October 1, 2021.

Depending on the documents you provide when you apply, you'll receive either a REAL ID or non-compliant ID card. For more details, visit the MVD's guide to REAL ID licensing.

How to Get a Montana ID Card

To be eligible for a Montana identification card, you must be a legal resident of the state. To apply, visit your local Montana MVD office.

NOTE: Depending on the office you visit, you may be required to make an appointment. Call ahead to be sure.

You will need to submit:

Proof of your:
- Identity (2 documents required).
- Authorized U.S. presence.
- Montana residency.
  - The MVD offers full guides to acceptable documents for both REAL IDs and non-compliant licenses.
Your Social Security number (SSN).
Payment for the fee: $17 for 8 years.

Veteran Designation

If you are eligible, you may have a veteran designation on your Montana ID card. You will need to complete the Application to Add Veteran Designation to Driver License or ID Card (Form 21-3000) and submit it either in person or by mail.

See the application form for fees and instructions.

Fees for a MT Identification Card

All ID cards are $17 for 8 years.

The costs above apply to replacements and renewals also.

Renew a Montana Identification Card

Your Montana ID card will be valid for either 4 years or 8 years, depending on your age. You can renew it:

Up to 6 months before it expires.
3 months after it expires.

You must renew your ID card in person at a Montana MVD office and:

Provide your ID card OR proof of your identity.
- If you're upgrading to a REAL ID-compliant ID card, make sure to bring the appropriate documents.
Provide proof of your name change, if applicable (e.g., marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order).
Pay the fee.

NOTE: If you live in a rural location with limited services, you must first pay your fee at a MT county treasurer's office and submit the receipt at the MVD office.

You will be mailed your new ID card.

Replace a MT ID Card

If you've lost or damaged your Montana ID card, you cannot apply for a replacement. You'll need to re-apply for an ID card by following the instructions above.

NOTE: If your missing or damaged ID card expires within the next 6 months, you may be able to renew it.

Change Your Name or MT Address

If you move to a new address in Montana, you must update your MVD records within 10 days. It is not necessary to obtain a replacement ID card showing your new address, but if you choose to do so, you must pay a duplicate card fee.

For more information, see our Change of Address in Montana page.

If you've changed your name, you must visit your local MT MVD office and provide proof of your name change as well as payment for a replacement ID card.

For more information, visit our Changing Your Name in Montana page.