Montana Replacement License Plate
What Is a License Plate Replacement in Montana?
License plate replacement in Montana involves obtaining a new license plate or decal if the current one is lost, stolen, damaged, or unreadable. According to the Montana Code Annotated 2023, the process is regulated by state laws under Title 61, which covers motor vehicles, certificates of title, registration, and taxation.
When Do You Need To Replace Your Montana License Plate?
You need to replace your Montana license plate when:
- It is lost or stolen.
- It has been damaged to the extent that it's unreadable.
- It has become faded or worn out over time.
Timely replacement ensures compliance with Montana's vehicle registration laws and helps avoid potential penalties for driving with an illegible license plate.
How To Get a Replacement License Plate in Montana
Vehicle owners must visit their local County Treasurer's Office to get a replacement license plate in Montana. Here, they will need to:
- Submit a completed application for the replacement of the license plate.
- Pay the required fee for the replacement.
- Provide proof of identity and vehicle ownership.
For more detailed information, visit the Montana Motor Vehicle Division website.
Where To Replace a License Plate in Montana?
To replace a license plate in Montana, visit the local County Treasurer's Office. Refer to the Montana Motor Vehicle Division's website for specific locations and contact information. Here are some resources to get started:
- Montana DMV Contact Information
- Phone: (406) 444-3933
By visiting these resources, individuals can find the nearest office location, hours of operation, and any additional contact information necessary for replacing a license plate.
Can You Replace a Montana License Plate Online?
To get a replacement Montana license plate, visit a county treasurer's office or a local County Treasurer's Office in person. There is currently no online option available.
What Do You Need To Replace Your License Plate in Montana?
The process for replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license plate in Montana requires the following steps:
- Complete the Application for Replacement License Plate/Decal form (Form MV1), which can be downloaded from the Montana Department of Justice Motor Vehicle Division website.
- You can submit the completed application form and surrender your current license plate in person at your local County Treasurer's Office or DMV branch.
- Pay the required replacement fee, currently $10 for a standard license plate.
- The County Treasurer's Office will issue you a new license plate on the spot. You will receive the new plate immediately and can affix it to your vehicle.
Montana has yet to offer an option to order and pay for replacement license plates entirely online and have them mailed to you. The in-person visit to the County Treasurer's Office is a part of the replacement process.
Do You Need Insurance To Replace Plates in Montana?
Yes, proof of current vehicle insurance is required to replace plates in Montana. This ensures that all vehicles on the road meet the state's mandatory insurance laws.
How Much Is License Plate Replacement in Montana?
The cost for license plate replacement in Montana includes a $12.36 replacement plate fee for a new number and type of plate. Additionally, a fee mentioned in the Montana Code Annotated suggests a replacement license plate or decal can incur a fee of $10. This indicates that the overall cost may vary slightly depending on the specific circumstances of the replacement request, such as whether a new plate number is issued or if specific decals are required.
How Long Does It Take To Get Replacement License Plates in Montana?
In Montana, the timeline for getting replacement license plates depends on whether you can visit the County Treasurer's Office in person or need to go through the mail.
- If you visit the County Treasurer's Office in person, the replacement process is completed on the same day. After you submit the required paperwork and pay the $10 replacement fee, you will immediately be issued the new license plates.
- If you need to apply for replacement plates by mail, the processing time for mail-in requests typically takes 2-3 weeks. Once processed, the new license plates will be mailed to you.