Driving Without a Valid (or on a Suspended) License in Montana

Montana prohibits driving without a valid license—suspended, revoked, or never issued. This article explains what constitutes these violations, the possible penalties, and the exemptions to the rule.

Driving Without a License in Montana

Every person who operates a motor vehicle on a Montana highway generally must possess and be able to display a valid driver's license. (Mont. Code Ann. § 61-5-102.)

Penalties for Unlicensed Driving in Montana

Unlicensed driving (meaning the driver was never issued a license) is punishable by a fine of up to $500.

Penalties for Driving Without a Montana License in Your Possession

A driver who is licensed but is unable to display a valid license to a requesting officer can be arrested. However, the charge will be dismissed if the driver can subsequently present a then-valid license to the court or officer.

Exceptions to Montana's Driver's License Requirement

Deployed military and non-resident drivers with valid driver's licenses from their home state or country can drive in the state without a Montana license, subject to Montana age restrictions. Military personnel can drive military vehicles without a driver's license on highways. Farmers driving tractors and engineers driving trains can also temporarily drive or cross over highways without a license. And youth between ages 12 and 16 can operate an off-highway vehicle with an "off-highway vehicle safety education course," but only temporarily along forest development roads.

Driving While Suspended in Montana

A person who operates a vehicle while on a suspended or revoked license will face jail time, fines, and an extended license suspension. (Mont. Code Ann. § 61-5-212.)

Penalties for Driving While Suspended in Montana

Generally, driving while suspended or revoked will result in a fine of up to $500, up to six months in jail, or both.

A second offense carries at least two days in jail, with a maximum of six months. And the court may still issue a fine of up to $500.

Penalties for Driving With a DUI-Related Suspension in Montana

Driving while suspended carries increased penalties if the suspension was related to a DUI incident. Convicted persons must serve at least two days in jail, with a maximum of six months. The court can also order the motorist to pay a maximum $2,000 fine and complete up to 40 hours of community service.

A second or subsequent offense carries the same penalties as a first but can also include:

• installation and use of an ignition interlock device (IID)
• vehicle seizure, and
• 24/7 sobriety monitoring.

All convictions for driving while suspended or revoked will result in an additional one-year suspension or revocation.

Talk to a Montana Defense Attorney

Driving on a suspended license and unlicensed driving can lead to serious consequences. If you've been arrested for one of these offenses, you should get legal assistance. A qualified attorney can explain how the law applies to your case and help you navigate your situation.