What happens when your Montana license is suspended or revoked
Your Montana driver's license can be suspended or revoked for several reasons: unpaid traffic fines, DUI convictions, accumulating too many points from violations, failure to appear in court, or not maintaining required insurance. A suspension is temporary — your license stops working for a set period, but you can get it back once you meet the conditions. A revocation is more serious and typically requires you to wait a minimum period before you can even request reinstatement.
The Montana Department of Justice, Motor Vehicle Division handles all reinstatement requests. Before you can drive legally again, you need to understand what caused the suspension or revocation, what you owe, and what steps the state requires you to complete in what order.
Key Takeaways
- You must contact the Montana Department of Justice Motor Vehicle Division to find out the exact reason your license was suspended or revoked and what conditions you must meet.
- Most suspensions require you to pay outstanding fines, court costs, or restitution before the state will consider reinstatement.
- DUI-related suspensions typically require you to complete a substance abuse treatment program and install an ignition interlock device before reinstatement is possible.
- You will need to pay a reinstatement fee to the Motor Vehicle Division, and the amount depends on the reason for suspension or revocation.
- Once you meet all conditions, you can request reinstatement by mail, online, or in person at a Motor Vehicle Division office.
Finding out why your license was suspended or revoked
The first step is to know exactly what triggered the suspension or revocation. You can check your status by calling the Montana Department of Justice Motor Vehicle Division at 406-444-3933, visiting their office in person in Helena, or checking online through the Motor Vehicle Division website if you have your driver's license number and date of birth.
When you contact them, write down the specific reason, the date the suspension or revocation began, how long it lasts (if it is a suspension), and what conditions you must complete. Ask whether you owe money to the court, the Motor Vehicle Division, or both. This information determines your next steps.
Paying fines, court costs, and restitution
If your suspension is tied to unpaid traffic fines, court costs, or restitution, you must pay these before reinstatement. Contact the court that issued the citation or conviction — the Motor Vehicle Division can tell you which court — and ask what amount is owed and where to send payment.
Some courts allow payment by phone, mail, or online. Once the court receives your payment, they send a release to the Motor Vehicle Division. This can take one to two weeks, so do not expect when ready reinstatement. Keep a copy of your payment confirmation or receipt.
Completing DUI-related requirements
If your suspension or revocation is related to a DUI or refusal to take a breath test, Montana requires you to complete a substance abuse treatment program before reinstatement. The Motor Vehicle Division will provide you with a list of approved providers. You must enroll, complete the program, and obtain a certificate of completion from the provider.
You will also need to install an ignition interlock device in any vehicle you plan to drive. This device requires you to blow into a breathalyzer before the engine starts. You must arrange installation before you request reinstatement and maintain the device for a period set by the court — typically six months to one year. The provider will give you documentation of installation.
Submitting your reinstatement request
Once you have completed all required conditions — paid fines, finished treatment programs, installed an ignition interlock device, or served your suspension period — you can request reinstatement. You will need to pay a reinstatement fee. The fee amount varies depending on the reason for suspension or revocation; call the Motor Vehicle Division to confirm the exact amount before you submit your request.
You can submit your request by mail to the Montana Department of Justice Motor Vehicle Division, 303 North Roberts Street, Helena, MT 59601. Include a completed reinstatement form (available on the Motor Vehicle Division website), proof that you have met all conditions, and payment for the reinstatement fee. You can also visit a Motor Vehicle Division office in person or submit the request online if the website offers that option for your situation.
What to expect after you submit your request
Processing typically takes two to four weeks after the Motor Vehicle Division receives your complete request. If any documents are missing or incomplete, they will contact you and the process will take longer. Once approved, you will receive a new license by mail or can pick it up at a Motor Vehicle Division office.
If your request is denied, the Motor Vehicle Division will explain why in writing. Common reasons include incomplete documentation, unpaid balances, or failure to complete a required program. You can address the issue and resubmit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive before my license is officially reinstated?
No. Driving with a suspended or revoked license is illegal in Montana and can result in additional criminal charges, fines, and jail time. You must wait until you receive your reinstated license or written approval from the Motor Vehicle Division before driving any vehicle.
What if I cannot afford the reinstatement fee?
Contact the Motor Vehicle Division to discuss your situation. Some courts or the division may offer payment plans for fines and fees, though this varies. You will need to make arrangements before submitting your reinstatement request.
Do I need to retake the written or driving test to get my license back?
For most suspensions, no — you do not need to retake tests. However, if your license has been revoked for a serious offense or has been expired for more than a certain period, you may need to pass the written test or driving test again. The Motor Vehicle Division will tell you if this applies to your situation.
What if I moved out of Montana after my license was suspended?
You can still request reinstatement by mail or online. However, if you now live in another state and want to drive there, you will eventually need to obtain a license from that state. Contact the Motor Vehicle Division about your options.
How long does a suspension or revocation stay on my record?
Once your license is reinstated, the suspension or revocation remains part of your driving record. This affects your insurance rates and may influence future traffic enforcement decisions. Your record does not automatically clear after reinstatement.