Montana's Age Requirements for Getting a Driver's License

In Montana, you can get a learner's permit at age 14 and a full driver's license at age 16. The learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car, while the full license means you can drive on your own — though with restrictions if you're under 18.

The state issues three types of licenses based on age: a learner's permit (14+), a restricted license (16–17), and an unrestricted license (18+). Each one has different rules about who can be in the car with you, what hours you can drive, and what you can do while driving.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 14 years old to get a learner's permit in Montana, and 16 to get a full driver's license.
  • Drivers under 18 with a restricted license cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless traveling to or from work, school, or a medical appointment.
  • For the first six months after getting your restricted license, you must have a licensed driver at least 25 years old in the front seat with you.
  • You cannot use a cell phone or text while driving if you hold a learner's permit or restricted license, even at a red light.
  • Once you turn 18, your restricted license automatically becomes unrestricted, and the nighttime and supervision rules no longer explore.

What You Need to Get a Learner's Permit at 14

To get a learner's permit in Montana, you need to visit your local Motor Vehicle Division office with proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Montana residency. Acceptable documents include a birth certificate, passport, or tribal ID for identity; a Social Security card or tax return for your number; and a utility bill or lease for residency.

You will also need to pass a written test on Montana traffic laws and road signs. The test covers speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, and what different signs and markings mean. You can study using the Montana Driver's Manual, which is free and available online through the Montana Department of Justice website.

Once you pass the written test, you will get your learner's permit when ready. The permit is valid for four years and costs a fee that varies by county but is typically under $50.

Restrictions While Driving on a Learner's Permit

With a learner's permit, you must have a licensed driver who is at least 25 years old sitting next to you in the front seat at all times. This person is responsible for supervising your driving and can help you if something goes wrong.

You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. on a learner's permit. You also cannot use a cell phone, text, or use any handheld device while driving — this rule applies even if you are stopped at a red light. Violations can result in fines and suspension of your permit.

You must display your permit visibly in the vehicle. Learner's permits in Montana are typically valid for one year before you can test for your restricted license, though you must be at least 15 years old to take that test.

Getting Your Restricted License at 16

To move from a learner's permit to a restricted license, you must be at least 16 years old and have held your permit for at least one year. You will need to pass a driving test at your local Motor Vehicle Division office. The test includes a written portion on Montana traffic laws and a practical driving portion where an examiner watches you drive.

You will also need to pass a vision test. Bring your learner's permit, proof of identity, and proof of residency to your appointment. The fee for a restricted license is typically under $50 and varies by county.

Once you pass, you receive your restricted license, which is valid until you turn 18. At that point, it automatically converts to an unrestricted license with no additional steps needed.

Rules for Drivers Under 18 With a Restricted License

With a restricted license, you can drive alone during daylight hours, but you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are traveling to or from work, school, a medical appointment, or an emergency. If you are stopped during restricted hours without a valid reason, you can be cited.

For the first six months after you get your restricted license, you must have a licensed driver who is at least 25 years old in the front seat with you whenever you drive. After six months, you can drive alone during allowed hours, but the midnight-to-5-a.m. restriction stays in place until you turn 18.

You still cannot use a cell phone, text, or use a handheld device while driving. You also cannot drive with more than one passenger under 18 in the vehicle unless a licensed driver 25 or older is present. These rules exist to reduce the risk of crashes among teen drivers.

What Happens When You Turn 18

When you turn 18, your restricted license automatically becomes an unrestricted license. You do not need to visit the Motor Vehicle Division office or take another test. The nighttime driving restriction ends, the requirement to have an adult in the car ends, and you can drive with passengers of any age.

The cell phone and texting ban does lift at 18, though Montana law prohibits all drivers from texting while driving. You will still need to follow all standard traffic laws, including speed limits, traffic signals, and seat belt requirements.

Your unrestricted license is valid for eight years from the date it is issued. You can renew it online, by mail, or in person at a Motor Vehicle Division office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive to school or work during the midnight-to-5-a.m. restriction?

Yes. If you have a restricted license and need to drive to school, work, a medical appointment, or an emergency during those hours, you can do so. You may be asked to show proof of your schedule, so keep a copy of your work or school schedule in your vehicle.

What happens if I get a ticket while driving on my learner's permit?

Traffic violations on a learner's permit can result in fines and points on your driving record. Multiple violations may delay your ability to test for a restricted license or result in permit suspension. Your parent or guardian may also face penalties if they were supervising you at the time.

Do I need to take a driving test again to get my unrestricted license at 18?

No. Your restricted license automatically becomes unrestricted when you turn 18. You do not need to visit the Motor Vehicle Division office or take another test.

Can I drive with friends my age on my restricted license?

You can have one passenger under 18 in the vehicle without an adult present. If you want to drive with more than one passenger under 18, a licensed driver 25 or older must be in the front seat with you.

What if I fail my driving test for the restricted license?

You can retake the test. There is no waiting period between attempts, though you will need to pay the test fee each time. Many people pass on their second or third attempt, so take time to practice and ask your supervising adult for feedback on areas to improve.