Montana offers online options for vehicle registration, but knowing what can actually be done online—and what still requires extra steps—can be confusing. While many Montana residents can renew registration digitally, first-time registrations, title work, and out-of-state situations often require in-person visits or specialized help.
This guide explains how Montana vehicle registration online works, who qualifies, and how Dirt Legal can handle the entire process for you—saving time, paperwork, and frustration.
Who Must Register a Vehicle in Montana
Montana residents
Montana residents are required to title and register their vehicles in the state. The Montana Motor Vehicle Division outlines these requirements on its official Vehicle Registration page, including documentation and timelines.
New Montana residents
If you recently moved to Montana, you generally must title and register your vehicle within 60 days of establishing residency. First-time registrations like this are not handled through the state’s online renewal system and typically require additional paperwork.
Non-residents working in Montana
Non-residents who are gainfully employed in Montana are subject to special rules. Under Montana statutes, these individuals must present valid out-of-state registration and pay Montana taxes and fees through a county treasurer. Guidance on these situations is outlined by the Montana Department of Justice and the Montana Department of Transportation in their explanations of non-resident registration and “registration purposes only” permits.
Can You Register a Vehicle Online in Montana?
Online vs. in-person registration
Montana’s online system is designed mainly for renewals, not first-time registrations.
What typically cannot be done online:
- First-time Montana registration
- Title transfers
- Most out-of-state vehicle transfers
What can often be done online:
- Registration renewals
- Limited updates through county portals
The state directs residents to its MVD Online Services (CARS) platform, which counties link to for eligible renewals.
How Montana Vehicle Registration Online Renewal Works
Eligibility and limitations
Online renewal is available only if:
- The vehicle already has a Montana registration
- The registration is not excessively expired
- No major address or ownership changes are needed
Vehicles that qualify for permanent registration under Montana rules do not require annual renewal.
Step-by-step online renewal process
- Visit your county’s online renewal page or access the state’s CARS portal
- For example, Gallatin County and Butte-Silver Bow both direct users to the state system
- Enter your vehicle and owner information
- Review fees and submit payment electronically
- Wait for your registration tabs to arrive by mail
Gallatin County notes that online renewals are typically processed within two business days, while both counties advise visiting an office if tabs have not arrived within about two weeks.
When Online Registration Isn’t Enough
Many drivers discover that their situation doesn’t fit neatly into the online system. This is especially common with:
- Out-of-state vehicles
- Recent moves
- Title changes
- Specialty or newly purchased vehicles
County treasurer offices
County treasurers handle first-time registrations and title work, but wait times, documentation requirements, and office hours vary.
Special Situations: Non-Residents and “Registration Purposes Only”
Non-resident workers
Montana allows non-residents working in the state to register vehicles for limited use while maintaining out-of-state titles. The Montana MVD explains these requirements, including calendar-quarter registration options and display rules.
“Registration purposes only” permits
In some cases, out-of-state owners may register a vehicle for use in Montana without titling it there. The Montana Department of Transportation’s Motor Carrier Services outlines when these permits apply, particularly for vehicles used temporarily or for work.
How Dirt Legal Simplifies Montana Vehicle Registration
While Montana’s system offers online tools, coordinating registration, titles, county rules, and special situations can still take significant time—especially if you’re not physically in the state.
Dirt Legal handles the entire process for you.
We help drivers register vehicles through Montana without DMV lines, confusing forms, or trial-and-error filings. From paperwork to plates, everything is managed digitally and efficiently.
With Dirt Legal:
- Montana plates ship in as little as 1 day
- Titles typically arrive in about 2 weeks
- Temporary tags are issued the same day, when applicable
Dirt Legal transforms vehicle registration with time-saving, digital solutions designed to keep your vehicle properly registered and road-ready—without the stress.
Explore Dirt Legal today and see how easy Montana vehicle registration can be when everything is handled for you.
