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How to Get Your Montana Permit License

The actual step-by-step process, from application to full license — not just what's on the exam. Confirm anything time-sensitive (fees, forms) with Montana MVD directly.

Standard Path (16+)

  1. Apply for a learner's license at 16

    Apply at a Motor Vehicle Division office with parent or guardian consent. Pass the 33-question knowledge test (82%, 27 correct) and a vision screening.

    • Birth certificate or equivalent
    • Proof of Social Security number and residency
    • Parent or guardian signature

  2. Log 50 hours of supervised driving

    Complete at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night.

  3. Hold the learner's license at least 6 months

    Hold the learner's license for at least 6 months before becoming eligible for a driver's license.

  4. Get parent or guardian certification

    A parent or guardian must certify the required hours are complete and that no traffic or substance-related offenses occurred in the last 6 months.

  5. Pass the road test and receive a First-Year Restricted License

    Once eligible, pass the road test at a Motor Vehicle Division office to receive a First-Year Restricted License.

  6. Follow First-Year Restricted License terms

    No unsupervised driving 11 p.m. to 5 a.m., no more than one passenger under 18 (excluding family) for the first 6 months, up to three after that, and no cell phone use except to report an emergency. Violations carry 20-60 hours of community service.

Traffic Education Path (14½)

  1. Enroll in an approved traffic education course

    An applicant as young as 14½ can apply for a learner's license while enrolled in, or after graduating from, an approved traffic education course.

    • Traffic education enrollment or completion certificate

  2. Apply for a learner's license

    Apply at a Motor Vehicle Division office. Pass the same 33-question knowledge test (82%, 27 correct) and a vision screening.

  3. Log 50 hours of supervised driving and hold the license 6 months

    Complete the same 50-hour supervised driving requirement (10 at night) and 6-month hold as the standard path, becoming eligible for a driver's license as young as 15.

  4. Pass the road test and follow First-Year Restricted License terms

    The same curfew, passenger, and cell phone restrictions apply regardless of which path an applicant used to qualify.

Notes

  • Montana licenses are issued statewide by the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD), within the Department of Justice.
  • Montana has no statewide handheld cell phone ban for a driver 18 or older — only texting while driving is banned for a driver of any age.
  • Exact fees and current procedures change over time — confirm the current process with the official Montana MVD website before your appointment.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-24