How to Replace a Lost Montana Driver's License

Get a replacement license by visiting a Montana Motor Vehicle Division office in person with proof of identity and residency

A lost Montana driver's license requires an in-person visit to a Motor Vehicle Division office — you cannot replace it by mail or online. You will need to bring a current form of ID (passport, tribal ID, military ID, or another state's license), proof that you live in Montana, and pay a replacement fee. The process takes about 15 to 30 minutes at the office, and you will receive a temporary paper license that day while your plastic card is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

Montana does not charge extra for a replacement license if your current one is still valid — you pay the same fee as a renewal. If your license has also expired, you will pay a renewal fee instead. The state does not require you to report the loss to police unless you suspect identity theft, though filing a report can protect you if someone uses your information.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a Motor Vehicle Division office in person with a current ID and proof of Montana residency to get a replacement.
The temporary paper license you receive at the office is valid when ready, while your plastic card arrives by mail in about a week.
The replacement fee is the same as a renewal fee and varies depending on how long your license is valid for.
If your license has expired, you will pay a renewal fee rather than just a replacement fee.
You do not need a police report unless you believe someone may use your lost license to commit fraud.

What documents to bring to the Motor Vehicle Division office

Bring one current form of government-issued ID. Montana accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, tribal ID, military ID, or a valid driver's license from another state. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a combination of documents — ask the office which ones they will accept before you go, because the rules depend on what you have.

You also need proof that you live in Montana. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address works. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days. If you recently moved, bring a document from your old address plus a new one, or bring a lease or mortgage paperwork that shows your new address.

Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized. You will need it to fill out the process form at the office. If you do not know your number, contact the Social Security Administration before your visit.

Montana Motor Vehicle Division office locations and hours

Montana has Motor Vehicle Division offices in most towns. The main office is in Helena at 1629 11th Avenue, but you can visit any office in the state — your replacement license will be mailed to the address you provide, not to the office you visit. Find the office nearest you by searching "Montana Motor Vehicle Division" on the state's website or calling 406-444-3933.

Office hours vary by location. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, but some have limited hours or are closed certain days. Call ahead or check the office's page on the state website to confirm hours before you go, especially if you are traveling to a smaller town.

Some offices are busier than others. If you visit early in the morning or mid-week, you may wait less time. Bring a book or your phone — wait times can range from 10 minutes to over an hour depending on how busy the office is that day.

The replacement fee and payment methods

Montana charges a fee to replace a lost driver's license. The amount depends on how long your replacement license will be valid. A license valid for four years costs less than one valid for eight years. The state does not charge extra for the replacement itself — you pay the standard renewal rate for the validity period you choose.

The Motor Vehicle Division accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at most offices. A few smaller offices may only take cash or check, so call ahead if you want to be sure. If you pay by check, write it to the State of Montana.

When your replacement license arrives and what to do if it does not

Your plastic driver's license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days of your visit. The office will give you a temporary paper license on the day you explore — this is valid for driving and identification until your plastic card arrives. Keep the paper license with you while you wait.

If your replacement does not arrive within two weeks, contact the Motor Vehicle Division at 406-444-3933. Have your name, date of birth, and the date you visited the office ready. The office can check the status of your card and reissue it if it was lost in the mail.

What to do if you suspect your lost license was used for fraud

If you believe someone may have used your lost license to commit fraud or identity theft, file a report with local police. Bring the police report number to the Motor Vehicle Division office when you explore for your replacement — this creates a record that protects you if the license is used fraudulently after you report it lost.

You should also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) and consider freezing your credit. These steps make it harder for someone to open accounts in your name. The Federal Trade Commission has a guide on its website for reporting identity theft.

Renewing instead of replacing if your license is expiring soon

If your lost license was expiring within the next few months anyway, you may want to renew it instead of replacing it. A renewal costs the same as a replacement but gives you a new license valid for four or eight years from the renewal date. Ask the office staff which option makes sense for your situation — they can tell you the exact cost difference.

If you choose to renew, bring the same documents you would for a replacement. The process is identical, and you will still receive a temporary paper license that day and a plastic card by mail within a week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement license if I do not have a current ID?

You need at least one current government-issued ID. If you do not have a passport, tribal ID, military ID, or another state's license, contact the Motor Vehicle Division office to ask what combination of documents they will accept instead. Some offices will work with you if you bring multiple documents that together prove your identity.

What if I lost my license out of state?

You must visit a Montana Motor Vehicle Division office to replace it, even if you lost it elsewhere. You cannot replace it by mail or online. If you are currently out of state and need to drive, you can use your temporary paper license from another state's office or contact Montana to ask about temporary options.

Do I need to report my lost license to the police?

You do not need a police report unless you suspect someone may use your license fraudulently. If you straightforward lost it and do not think anyone will try to use it, you can skip the report. If you do file one, bring the report number to the Motor Vehicle Division office.

How long is the temporary paper license valid?

The temporary paper license is valid until your plastic card arrives, which usually takes 7 to 10 business days. It is valid for driving and as identification. If your plastic card is delayed, contact the Motor Vehicle Division and they can extend the temporary license or reissue your card.

What if my address has changed since my lost license was issued?

Bring proof of your current Montana address to the office. Your replacement license will show your new address. If you recently moved, bring a document from your old address plus one from your new address, or bring a lease or mortgage showing your new address.

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.