📅 2026 Update: Changes in Montana Driving Regulations

Since the original article was published, there have been important updates regarding driving laws and procedures in Montana. These changes include new regulations on cannabis use while driving and updated fees for obtaining a learner's permit. For more details on previous regulations and processes, continue reading further down the page.

🚗 Cannabis Use and Driving

Effective July 1, 2026, Montana established a 5 ng/mL THC limit for DUI charges. This means that drivers can face charges if they are found to have this level of THC in their system while driving. The law prohibits operating a vehicle under the influence of cannabis or alcohol.

💰 Current Fees and Costs

The current application fee for a learner's permit in Montana is $25. This fee has remained unchanged, but it is important for applicants to budget for this cost during their application process.

📋 Forms and Steps for Application

To apply for a learner's permit, individuals must fill out an application form available at local Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) offices or online. A vision screening is also required, along with a written knowledge test that has 33 multiple-choice questions. To pass, applicants need to answer at least 27 questions correctly.

⏳ Processing Times

Processing times for issuing a learner's permit can vary by location. It is best to contact your local MVD office for specific timelines to avoid any surprises during the application process.

📌 Key Points Summary

  • 🥇 New THC limit for DUI charges set at 5 ng/mL, effective July 1, 2026.
  • 💵 Learner's permit application fee is $25.
  • 📋 Required to complete an application, vision screening, and written knowledge test.
  • ⏳ Processing times differ; contact local MVD for details.

💡 Tips for Applying for a Learner's Permit in Montana

Reviewing your specific situation with an attorney can clarify any questions you may have regarding your application process.

📝 Know the Minimum Age Requirements

You can apply for a learner's permit at 14½ if enrolled in an approved driver's education course. If not, you must be at least 16 years old to apply.

👨‍👧 Get Parental Consent

If you are under 18 years old, you must obtain parental consent before applying for a learner's permit. Make sure to have this ready as part of your application process.

👀 Prepare for the Vision Screening

Passing a vision screening is necessary to obtain your learner's permit. Be sure to have your vision checked before your application to avoid any delays.

📚 Study the Driver Manual

The Montana Driver Manual is available online for free. This resource contains vital information that can help you prepare for the written knowledge test.

💻 Utilize Online Practice Tests

Free online practice tests are available to help you prepare for the written knowledge test. These tests are based on the latest Montana Driver Manual and can be accessed without registration.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What is the minimum age to apply for a learner's permit in Montana?

Individuals can apply at 14½ if enrolled in a driver's education course; otherwise, they must be 16 years old.

❓ Do I need parental consent to apply for a learner's permit?

Yes, applicants under 18 years old must have parental consent when applying for a learner's permit in Montana.

❓ What is the fee for a learner's permit in Montana?

The application fee for a learner's permit is currently $25.

❓ What tests do I need to pass to get my learner's permit?

You must pass a vision screening and a written knowledge test with 33 multiple-choice questions, answering at least 27 correctly.

❓ How can I prepare for the written knowledge test?

Utilize the free Montana Driver Manual and take advantage of free online practice tests available to help you study.

❓ What should I do if I fail the written knowledge test?

You can retake the test after a waiting period, but it's best to review the Montana Driver Manual thoroughly before attempting again.

⚖️ Recent Court Cases Related to Driving Regulations

Recent court rulings have impacted various aspects of driving regulations, including DUI laws and learner's permit requirements. These cases help clarify the legal landscape for drivers in Montana.

For more information, you can browse more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update









What does a green light mean?



Green lights mean drivers do not have to slow down or stop when approaching an intersection. However, the right of way must be yielded to oncoming traffic or pedestrians.



What does a yellow light mean?

Montana Driving Test Questions


Yellow traffic lights means motorists must slow down and stop their vehicle before the light turns red. If the vehicle cannot be safely passed, motorists should drive through the intersection cautiously rather than speeding up.



What does a red light mean?



A red light means motorists must stop their vehicles. Vehicles cannot be stopped in an intersection.



Can a right turn be made on a red light?



Drivers may legally turn right during a red light as long there is no oncoming traffic or any pedestrians in the way. 



What does a red sign mean?



A red sign indicates motorists must stop or are prohibited from taking certain actions, such as making a u-turn.



Where must drivers stop?



Wherever a stop sign is posted, drivers must stop before a cross walk, intersection or a stop line.



What does a triangle-shaped sign indicate?



Triangle-shaped signs indicate motorists must slow down and yield the right of way to any traffic which wishes to pass ahead of you.



Do back seat passengers have to wear a seat belt?



Yes. All drivers and passengers in Montana cars are required to wear a safety belt.



How much distance is required to legally pass another vehicle?



There must be at least 100 feet between a driver and any oncoming traffic if another vehicle is being passed.



How far in advance should a turn be signaled?



Drivers in urban areas should signal a turn at least 100 feet in advance. Drivers in rural areas should signal their intent to turn at least 300 feet in advance.



When can a u-turn be legally made?



Drivers must be able to see at least 500 feet in all directions and be able to themselves be seen for that same distance before attempting a u-turn.



Who has the right of way at an intersection?



Whichever driver arrives first at an intersection has the right of way. If two motorists arrive at an intersection at the same time, the driver on the left must yield to the vehicle on the right.



How far away must a vehicle stop from a school bus?



Motorists must stop at least 20 feet away from any school bus if it is stopped and children are entering or exiting.



How close to a fire hydrant can a vehicle be legally parked?



Motorists may park their vehicles within any distance of a fire hydrant as long as they are not obstructing access to it.



How much space should be maintained between parallel parked vehicles?



There should be at least two feet of space between parallel parked vehicles.



How close to a fire station may a vehicle be parked?



Drivers may park no closer than 30 feet to a fire station.