How to Get and Renew Your Driver's License in Billings, Montana

Where to get your driver's license in Billings

The Montana Department of Justice, Motor Vehicle Division, runs the driver's license program for the state. In Billings, you go to the local Motor Vehicle Division office to explore for a new license, renew an existing one, or replace a lost or damaged card. The office is located at 303 North 27th Street, Billings, MT 59101, and handles all driver's license transactions for Yellowstone County.

You can walk in during business hours without an appointment, though wait times vary by time of day and day of week. The office is typically less busy on weekday mornings. You can also call ahead at (406) 247-2900 to ask about current wait times or to clarify what documents you need to bring.

Key Takeaways

The Motor Vehicle Division office at 303 North 27th Street in Billings handles all driver's license applications, renewals, and replacements.
You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or a document showing it to get or renew a license.
A standard Montana driver's license costs a specific fee that varies depending on whether you are getting a new license or renewing, and how long you want it to be valid.
You can renew your license by mail if you meet certain conditions, which takes longer but saves you a trip to the office.
If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it until the suspension or revocation is lifted.

Documents you need to bring

Montana requires you to prove who you are and where you live. Bring one document from each category below. For proof of identity, acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID, a tribal ID, or a birth certificate. If you bring a birth certificate, you also need a second form of ID such as a school ID, employee ID, or Social Security card.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a government document (such as a tax return or court order) that shows your current Billings address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. You also need to provide your Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a document from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one.

If you are renewing a license that is still valid, you may not need to bring all of these documents — call the office to confirm what you need before you go.

The cost and how long your license lasts

A new Montana driver's license costs a set fee, and a renewal costs a different amount. The exact fee depends on how long you want the license to be valid. You can get a license that is valid for 4 years, 8 years, or until age 21 (if you are under 21). The longer the validity period, the higher the fee. The Motor Vehicle Division office will tell you the exact cost when you arrive, or you can call ahead to ask.

Montana accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at the office. If you are renewing by mail, you will need to include a check or money order with your process.

Renewing by mail instead of in person

If your current license is not suspended or revoked, and it is not more than 5 years expired, you may be able to renew by mail. You will need to send in your current license, a completed process form (available on the Montana Department of Justice website), and payment. Mail your process to the Motor Vehicle Division at 303 North 27th Street, Billings, MT 59101.

Renewing by mail takes longer than going to the office in person — typically 2 to 3 weeks from the time the office receives your process. If you need your license sooner, you must go to the office. You can also renew online through the Montana Department of Justice website if you meet certain conditions, such as having a valid license that is not expiring within 30 days.

What to do if your license is lost, stolen, or damaged

If your license is lost or stolen, go to the Motor Vehicle Division office and tell them what happened. You will need to fill out a form and pay a replacement fee, which is lower than the cost of a new license. Bring the same proof of identity and residency that you would bring for a renewal. The replacement license will have a new number and will be valid for the same length of time as your previous license.

If your license is damaged but still readable, you can exchange it for a replacement at the office. Bring your damaged license and payment. If your license is so damaged that it cannot be read, the office will treat it as a lost license and issue you a replacement with a new number.

If your license is suspended or revoked

Montana suspends or revokes licenses for reasons such as unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or driving under the influence. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it until the suspension or revocation is lifted. You can contact the Motor Vehicle Division office to find out why your license is suspended and what you need to do to restore it.

Restoring a suspended license usually involves paying outstanding fines, completing a court requirement, or both. Once the suspension is lifted, you can renew your license at the office or by mail. Some suspensions are lifted automatically once you meet the requirement; others require you to request reinstatement in writing.

Hours and contact information

The Motor Vehicle Division office in Billings is open Monday through Friday during standard business hours. The exact hours are posted on the Montana Department of Justice website. The office is closed on state holidays. If you need to contact the office, call (406) 247-2900 or visit the Motor Vehicle Division website to find forms, fee information, and answers to common questions.

If you have questions about your specific situation — such as whether your license is suspended, whether you can renew by mail, or what documents you need — call the office before you go. This saves you a trip if you are missing something.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online?

Montana offers online renewal for some drivers, but not all. You can renew online if your license is valid, not expiring within 30 days, and you have not had a name change or address change since your last renewal. Go to the Montana Department of Justice website to see if you are may be able to access and to complete the renewal.

How long does it take to get a new license at the office?

You receive your new license the same day you explore at the office in Billings. The office prints it on-site. Wait times vary depending on how busy the office is, but you should plan for 30 minutes to an hour from the time you arrive.

What if I moved to Billings from another state?

If you have a valid driver's license from another state, you can exchange it for a Montana license at the Motor Vehicle Division office. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of residency in Billings, and your Social Security number. You will pay the fee for a new license, not a renewal fee.

Can I get a Real ID driver's license in Billings?

Yes. A Real ID license meets federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. It costs more than a standard license and requires additional proof of identity and residency. Ask the Motor Vehicle Division office what extra documents you need to bring if you want a Real ID license.

What if I cannot go to the office in person?

If you cannot visit the office, you can renew by mail if your license is still valid and not more than 5 years expired. Mail your current license, a completed process form, and payment to the Motor Vehicle Division office. If you cannot renew by mail, you will need to have someone else pick up your license for you, though you may need to provide written permission.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.