Montana requires liability insurance on every vehicle you drive, except motorcycles, and you must be able to prove it on the spot. Driving uninsured brings fines, possible jail, points and lost plates.
Know the rule
Liability insurance is mandatory (except for motorcycles) and must be in effect on the vehicle being operated.
Handbook p. 57 ↗Minimum liability coverage
| Coverage (one accident) | Minimum |
|---|---|
| Bodily injury or death of one person | $25,000 |
| Bodily injury or death of two persons | $50,000 |
| Damage to others' property | $10,000 |
Know the rule
Carry evidence of insurance in the vehicle at all times. If stopped for a violation or involved in a collision, show it along with your license and registration.
Handbook p. 57 ↗Penalties for driving uninsured
| Offense | Fine / jail | Also |
|---|---|---|
| First | $250–$500 and/or up to 10 days in jail | 5 points on your record |
| Second or later | At least $350 and/or up to 10 days | Plates and registration suspended 90 days |
| Third or later | At least $350 and/or up to 10 days | Plates and registration suspended 180 days |
Know the rule
If a court finds you responsible for crash damages and you don't pay within 60 days, your license and registration are automatically suspended until it's paid or 6 years pass, and you must show proof of insurance.
Handbook p. 57 ↗Time to pay crash damages before automatic suspension
Handbook p. 57 ↗Know the rule
Owners of more than 25 vehicles registered in Montana may qualify as self-insurers.
Handbook p. 57 ↗Know the rule
Non-residents who crash in Montana may use insurance from a company licensed here. They're subject to the Safety Responsibility Law and lose Montana driving privileges if they don't comply.
Handbook p. 57 ↗MTIVS
Montana Insurance Verification System: uses registration records and insurers' data to confirm in real time whether a vehicle has minimum liability coverage.
Handbook p. 57 ↗Know the rule
Law enforcement, courts, MVD, County Treasurer offices and the public can use MTIVS to confirm evidence of insurance.
Handbook p. 57 ↗Put it into practice
You're pulled over for a burned-out taillight. Hand the officer your license, registration and proof of insurance. With no valid insurance, a first offense can bring a $250–$500 fine and 5 points.