How to Get Your Driver's License in Montana
Last verified: 2026-03
Here is how to get your driver's license in Montana. Montana uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 16.
GDL Stages in Montana
Learner's Permit
Requirements
- Pass written knowledge test
- Pass vision screening
- Parental consent if under 18
Restrictions
- Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 18 or older
Intermediate License
Requirements
- Hold learner's permit for at least 6 months
- Pass road skills test
Restrictions
- No driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
- Passenger restrictions vary by county; some counties limit passengers under 18
Full Unrestricted License
Requirements
- Hold intermediate license with clean record
- Turn 16
Restricted License Rules
- No driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. for intermediate license holders.
- Passenger restrictions may vary. Montana does not have a strong statewide passenger limit, though local policies may apply.
How restrictions lift: Restrictions are removed at age 16 with a clean record during the intermediate period.
Road Test Overview
What Is Tested
- Vehicle control
- Turning and lane changes
- Parking
- Obeying traffic signals and signs
- Speed management
- Yielding right of way
Adult Licensing Pathway
If you are 18 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. Drivers 18 and older skip the GDL process and may apply directly for a full license after passing the required tests.
Montana-Specific Information
Montana allows teens to obtain an intermediate license at 15 and a full license by 16, among the youngest in the country. The state's GDL law is considered one of the weakest nationally because it lacks a firm statewide passenger restriction.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be at least 16 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in Montana.
Montana uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit, Intermediate License, Full Unrestricted License.
- No driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. for intermediate license holders.
- Passenger restrictions may vary. Montana does not have a strong statewide passenger limit, though local policies may apply.
Adults age 18 and older in Montana can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. Drivers 18 and older skip the GDL process and may apply directly for a full license after passing the required tests.
Need your permit first?
Start with the learner's permit before your full license.
Montana learner's permit guideCheck drivers ed requirements
Find out if drivers ed is required in Montana.
Montana drivers ed requirementsPrefer to learn online?
Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.
View Online CoursesThis information is based on Montana Motor Vehicle Division guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official Montana Motor Vehicle Division website for the most current information.