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

Where to renew your license in Billings

In Billings, you renew your driver's license at the Montana Department of Justice, Driver Services Bureau. The main office is located at 303 North Roberts Street in Helena, but Billings residents can use the Yellowstone County Driver Services office at 217 North 27th Street, Billings, MT 59101. This is the only location in Billings where you can complete the renewal in person.

You can also renew by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through the Montana Driver Services website if your license is not expired and you have not had a name change. The online option is the fastest route if you are may be able to access — it takes about 10 business days from submission to delivery.

Key Takeaways

The Yellowstone County Driver Services office at 217 North 27th Street handles in-person renewals in Billings during business hours.
You can renew online if your license is not yet expired and you have not changed your name, which typically takes 10 business days.
Mail renewal is available if you meet age and driving record requirements, though it takes longer than in-person or online renewal.
You will need a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and the renewal fee, which varies depending on your license type and term length.
Montana allows you to renew up to one year before your license expires, so you do not have to wait until the expiration date.

What documents you need to bring

For in-person renewal at the Yellowstone County office, bring a valid form of identification — your current Montana driver's license, passport, military ID, or tribal ID all work. You also need proof of residency dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your current Billings address.

If you have changed your name since your last license was issued, bring the document that proves the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You will also need to know your Social Security number, though you do not have to bring the card itself.

Renewal fees and license term options

Montana driver's licenses are issued for either four or eight years. A four-year license costs less upfront but requires renewal more often. An eight-year license costs more but you renew less frequently. The exact fee depends on which term you choose and whether you are renewing a standard license or a commercial license.

The Yellowstone County office accepts cash, check, and card payments. If you renew by mail, you can pay by check or money order — include the payment with your process materials. Online renewal requires a credit or debit card.

In-person renewal at the Yellowstone County office

The Yellowstone County Driver Services office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a one-hour lunch break from noon to 1 p.m. You do not need an appointment — walk-ins are accepted, though wait times vary. Mornings and early afternoons tend to be less busy than late afternoon.

Bring all required documents and your renewal fee. The staff will take a new photo, verify your information, and issue your temporary license on the spot. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within 10 to 15 business days. You can drive legally on the temporary license until the permanent one arrives.

Online renewal through Montana Driver Services

To renew online, visit the Montana Driver Services website and select the online renewal option. You are may be able to access if your license is not yet expired, you have not changed your name, and you do not have any medical or legal holds on your record. The system will ask you to verify your identity using information from your driver's license and Social Security number.

You will need to upload or provide a new photo — you can take one with your phone or computer camera, and the system will guide you through the requirements. The fee is the same as in-person renewal. Once submitted, your new license typically arrives within 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives.

Mail renewal for may be able to access drivers

You can renew by mail if you are at least 21 years old, have a clean driving record with no suspensions or revocations, and have not had a name change. read the renewal process from the Montana Driver Services website or pick one up at the Yellowstone County office.

Complete the form, include a check or money order for the renewal fee, and mail everything to the address listed on the process. Mail renewal takes longer than in-person or online — typically three to four weeks from the time the office receives your materials. Your temporary license is not issued by mail, so you will be driving on an expired license during this period. Some insurance companies and law enforcement may not accept an expired license, so check with your insurer before choosing this route.

What to do if your license is expired or suspended

If your license has already expired, you cannot renew online — you must renew in person at the Yellowstone County office or by mail. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew at all until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact the Montana Driver Services Bureau to find out the reason for the suspension and what steps are needed to restore your driving privileges.

If you have an outstanding traffic ticket, unpaid fines, or a child support obligation, Montana may suspend your license. You will need to resolve these issues before renewal is possible. The Driver Services website has a tool where you can check your license status and see if there are any holds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license before it expires?

Yes. Montana allows you to renew up to one year before your license expires. This is useful if you are planning a trip or want to avoid the rush near your expiration date. The new expiration date will be calculated from your current expiration date, not from the date you renew.

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?

If you renew in person, you receive a temporary license when ready and your permanent license arrives by mail in 10 to 15 business days. Online renewal takes about 10 business days from submission. Mail renewal takes three to four weeks from the time the office receives your materials.

What if I move out of Billings after I renew?

Your Montana license remains valid no matter where you live in the state. If you move to a different county, you do not need to update your license unless you change your address. You can update your address online through the Montana Driver Services website or in person at any Driver Services office.

Can I renew someone else's license for them?

No. The person whose license is being renewed must be present for in-person renewal to have their photo taken. Online and mail renewal must be completed by the license holder themselves, as they need to verify their identity.

What if I lost my current license?

If your license is lost or stolen, you cannot renew — you must obtain a replacement first. Contact the Yellowstone County Driver Services office to report the loss and get a replacement license. Once you have the replacement, you can then renew it through any of the three methods.

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.