Montana’s Traffic Violation Point System

Montana has habitual violator laws to identify dangerous and negligent drivers. Under this system, the traffic court reports all moving violation convictions to the Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). The MVD keeps track of violations using a point system. This article explains how Montana's point system works, including the consequences of getting too many points on your record.

How Does Montana's Traffic Violation Point System Work?

In Montana, the MVD assigns a certain number of points for each traffic violation conviction. The number of points generally depends on the seriousness of the offense (see chart below).

Drivers who accumulate too many points face consequences such as testing requirements and license suspension. However, points don't stay on your record forever, and drivers sometimes have options to mitigate the consequences that come with points (explained below).

License Suspension and Consequences of Traffic Ticket Points in Montana

In Montana, racking up too many traffic violation points can lead to counseling and testing requirements, license suspension, and license revocation.

Counseling and Testing Requirements for Traffic Violation Points in Montana

After accumulating six points in an 18-month period, a driver will be required to attend a driver counseling session or to retake the driver's license exam. Failure to complete the requirement will result in a three-month license suspension.

Montana Drivers With 15 Points Face License Suspension

A driver with at least 15 points in a 36-month period will receive a notice of suspension. The period of suspension will be six months.

Montana Drivers With 30 Points Face License Revocation

Any driver who accumulates at least 30 points in a three-year period will be designated as a habitual violator. The driver will receive a notice in the mail indicating the driver's license is officially revoked for at least three years.

After three years of revocation, the driver can apply for a driver's license. The driver must retake the required tests and maintain proof of insurance for three years.

Reinstating Your Montana License Following a Point Revocation

Prior to license reinstatement, the driver must pay a reinstatement fee, provide proof of insurance, and may need to complete driver improvement counseling.

How Long Do Traffic Ticket Points Stay on Your Record in Montana?

Points expire after three years. Also, all points are removed after a driver's license is revoked.

Getting a Restricted License Through Montana's Driver Rehabilitation Program

Drivers who are suspended or have served at least one year of a three-year revocation can participate in the driver rehabilitation program. Participants in the program might be required to complete driver safety courses and retake license testing but are eligible for a restricted license. This restricted license can be used during the suspension or revocation period for driving to and from work and school.

Points Values for Specific Violations in Montana

Montana assigns the following point values to moving violations.

Violation	Points Assessed
Vehicular homicide	15
Vehicular manslaughter	12
Felony involving vehicle	12
DUI (driving under the influence)	10
Driving while suspended or revoked	6
Failure to stop for accident involving injury	8
Failure to stop for accident involving damage	4
Reckless driving	5
Drag racing	5
Insurance violation	5
Fleeing or eluding officer	5
Driving without license	2
Speeding above posted limit	3
Speeding above prudent speed	2
All other moving violations	2