A 3-minute lesson from the Montana course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Montana has baseline rules about who may hold a license at all, plus deadlines for people who move here and special rules for military members. These timelines are common test questions.
Know the rule
You cannot apply for, be issued, or keep a Montana driver license if you are suspended or revoked in any other state or jurisdiction.
With a valid out-of-state license in your immediate possession, you can exchange it for a Montana license without a written or road test. Applicants who may lack the ability to drive safely can be required to test.
Active-duty military members and their dependents may keep a valid out-of-state license in Montana unless they become gainfully employed here — then they must get a Montana license.
Notation on a Montana license: “Valid for 90 days after honorable discharge.” The holder may renew at any time during military service, outside the usual renewal window.
Veterans who want a veteran designation on their license or ID card (available since January 1, 2014) should contact the Montana Veterans Affairs Division.
You move from Idaho to Missoula and set up a permanent home. Your valid Idaho license works for up to 60 consecutive days. Before then, surrender it for a Montana license — usually with no written or road test, since it's valid and in your possession.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
A person moves to Montana and wants to keep driving on their old state's license. How long can they legally use it before converting?
30 consecutive days
60 consecutive days
90 consecutive days
180 consecutive days
Answer: 60 consecutive days
New residents may use a valid out-of-state license for up to 60 consecutive days before they must convert it.
Active-duty military personnel stationed in Montana may keep their valid out-of-state license as long as they are not gainfully employed in the state.
True
False
Answer: True
Military members and dependents may retain an out-of-state license unless they become gainfully employed, at which point a Montana license is required.