Welcome to the Montana MVD guide. Before you try to schedule any appointment, the most important “secret” you must know is that Montana splits its services between two different offices.
- State MVD (Driver Services): This is for your person. Go here for your Driver’s License, REAL ID, Permit (Written) Test, and Road (Driving) Test.
- County Treasurer’s Office: This is for your car. Go here for your Vehicle Title, Vehicle Registration, and License Plates.
This guide will show you how to book the right appointment at the right office and explain when you can just walk in.
The Most Important Rule: MVD vs. County Treasurer
- State MVD Offices (Driver’s License): All in-person driver’s license and ID card services are by appointment only. Walk-ins are not accepted. You must use the online scheduling system.
- County Treasurer’s Offices (Vehicle/Plates): These offices are walk-in only. You do not need (and cannot make) an appointment for vehicle registration or titles.
Do not book an appointment at the State MVD for your license plates; they will turn you away.
How to Schedule Your DRIVER’S LICENSE Appointment (State MVD)
This is the official state-run appointment system for all Driver’s License services.
Use this process for:
- First-time Learner’s Permit (Written Test)
- Driver’s License Road Test (Skills Test)
- Transferring Your Out-of-State License
- Getting your first REAL ID
- In-person License Renewal or State ID Card
Step-by-Step Online Booking:
- Visit the Official Portal: Navigate to the MVD Appointment Scheduler: [https://mt.sts-scheduler.com/mvdpublic/]
- Log In or Create an Account: You will need to create an account or log in to continue.
- Select Your Service: This is the most important step. You must choose the exact service you need from the main dashboard.
- For a Permit Test: Select “Testing” → “Regular (Class D)” → “Written Test.”
- For a Road Test: Select “Testing” → “Regular (Class D)” → “Road Test.”
- For a New Resident: Select “Driver License” → “First Time Driver License.”
- For a Renewal: Select “Driver License” → “Renewal Driver License.”
- Select Your Location: Choose your preferred MVD branch office.
- Pick a Date and Time: A calendar will show you all available slots. (Note: These often fill up months in advance).
- Confirm & Save: You will receive a confirmation. You can log back into the portal at any time to view, reschedule, or cancel your appointment.
How to Register Your VEHICLE (County Treasurer)
You CANNOT use the state appointment system for this. All vehicle titles, registrations, and license plates are handled by your local County Treasurer’s Office.
- No Appointment Needed: This is a walk-in service.
- Find Your County Office: You must find your specific county’s website. Search Google for “[Your County Name] Treasurer Montana” (e.g., “Gallatin County Treasurer” or “Yellowstone County Treasurer”).
- Check Their Hours: Visit your local county office with your required documents (signed title, bill of sale, proof of insurance) to process your registration.
The Learner’s Permit & Written Test: What to Know
- Age: You are eligible to apply for a learner’s permit at age 14.5 (if in a driver’s ed course) or age 16.
- The Test: The knowledge test consists of 33 multiple-choice questions. You must get at least 27 questions correct (82%) to pass. All questions come from the Montana Driver Manual.
- Minors (Under 18): You must be enrolled in or have completed a state-approved driver education program. You must also complete 50 hours of supervised driving practice (including 10 hours at night).
- If You Fail: You must wait at least one business day to book a new appointment.
What are The Required Documents for Your Visit
When you visit the State MVD Office for your license or permit, you must bring the official REAL ID documents.
- 1. Proof of Identity & Legal Status (One required):
- U.S. Passport or U.S. Birth Certificate
- Permanent Resident Card or other immigration documents
- 2. Proof of Social Security Number (One required):
- Social Security Card
- W-2 or 1099 form (must show full SSN)
- 3. Proofs of Montana Residency (TWO required):
- You must bring TWO recent (within 60 days) documents from different sources with your name and Montana address.
- Examples: Utility bill, bank statement, paystub, lease agreement, or a vehicle registration card.
- 4. Proof of Name Change (if applicable):
- Certified Marriage Certificate or court order.
FAQs from Montana Drivers
This is the most common and frustrating problem in Montana. The MVD is extremely understaffed, and appointments in major cities (Bozeman, Billings, Missoula) are booked months in advance.
The Pro-Tip: Check the appointment scheduler (mt.sts-scheduler.com) daily, early in the morning (around 8:00 AM). This is when new slots from cancellations appear. Be prepared to take an appointment in a neighboring town, as they often have sooner openings.
Yes, if you are eligible. This is the best way to skip the appointment. You can renew your license online once every 10 years. Visit the MVD’s “Online Services” page to see if your license is eligible for online renewal. You can also renew by mail.
No. All State MVD Driver Service offices are by appointment only. You will be turned away without an appointment. The only walk-in offices are the County Treasurer’s offices (for vehicle registration).
You must log back into the MVD Appointment Scheduler (mt.sts-scheduler.com). On your dashboard, you will see your “Pending Appointments.” You can click “Info” and then “Cancel Appointment.” You must then book a new one from the beginning.
MVD offices are open Monday to Friday, typically from 8 AM to 5 PM. They are NOT open on Sundays.
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