🚗Official 2026 Handbook
Montana Driver's Handbook 2026
Official Driver's Handbook / DMV Manual published by Montana Motor Vehicle Division. Available in 1 language.
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The Montana Driver Manual will give you information on safe driving rules and practices to help you become a safe
driver. Be sure to read the manual carefully. Unless you know the information that it contains, you cannot pass
the written and road tests.
This driver manual paraphrases Montana’s motor vehicle laws and is not intended to be a complete legal reference.
Courts go by the actual language of the Montana Code Annotated, not this text. Further information may be obtained
from: a public library, law enforcement agency, or driver examiner; the web site at www.dojmt.gov/driving; or, the
Motor Vehicle Division at P.O. Box 201430, Helena, MT 59620-1430 or 1-406-444-1772.
An adapted illustrated driver manual is available from the Office of Public Instruction on their website at http://www.
opi.mt.gov/Programs/DriverEd/ or by calling 1-406-444-4396.
Montana Driver Manual www.dojmt.gov/driving
Dear Future Driver,
Learning to drive is an important step toward adulthood. It will
give you a new independence, but it also brings responsibilities
you probably haven’t had before. When you get behind the
wheel, it’s not just your safety that’s on the line – the lives of your
passengers and fellow drivers are also in your hands.
Study this manual closely, as it contains the rules you’ll need to
know to stay safe and out of trouble. You’ll also find information
on how to obtain your driver’s license, what to do in case of
roadside emergencies, and how to check your vehicle before a
long trip.
So follow the way of the road – leave sooner, drive slower, stay
alert, and live longer.
Drive safely,
Austin
Attorney General Austin Knudsen
Table Of Contents
i Montana Driver Manual www.dojmt.gov/driving
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS................................................................................................................. I
SAVE TIME - GO ONLINE ................................................................................................... VI
CHAPTER 1 - THE DRIVER LICENSE .................................................................................. 1
Driver Licensing Quick Reference............................................................................................................................... 1
*Appointment Scheduling .............................................................................................................................................. 1
Identification Confirmation ............................................................................................................................................. 1
Types of Montana Licenses, Permits, and Endorsements ........................................................................................ 1
Class D Standard Driver License (non-commercial license) ......................................................................................... 1
Commercial Driver License (CDL) ................................................................................................................................. 1
Identification (ID) Card................................................................................................................................................... 2
Learner License ............................................................................................................................................................. 2
Motorcycle Endorsement ............................................................................................................................................... 2
Motorcycle Learner License .......................................................................................................................................... 3
REAL ID ......................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Who Can Apply for Montana Licenses ........................................................................................................................ 3
New Residents .............................................................................................................................................................. 3
Military ........................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Veteran Designation ...................................................................................................................................................... 4
Proof of Authorized Presence, Identity, & Residence ............................................................................................... 4
Proof of Full Legal Name and Date of Birth .................................................................................................................... 4
Real ID Required Documentation ................................................................................................................................ 7
Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Program .............................................................................................................. 7
Fees/Receipts (REAL ID) .............................................................................................................................................. 8
Driver License Renewal ................................................................................................................................................ 9
Lost or Destroyed Licenses ....................................................................................................................................... 10
Change of Address...................................................................................................................................................... 10
Name Change .............................................................................................................................................................. 10
Driver Exam Stations & Appointments ..................................................................................................................... 10
CHAPTER 2 – MOTOR VEHICLE EQUIPMENT ................................................................... 12
Trip Planning ................................................................................................................................................................ 12
Check the Vehicle .............................................................................................................................................................. 12
Braking System ........................................................................................................................................................... 12
Lights ........................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Windshield and Wipers ............................................................................................................................................... 13
Tires ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Steering System .......................................................................................................................................................... 13
Suspension System .................................................................................................................................................... 13
Exhaust System .......................................................................................................................................................... 13
Engine ......................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Loose Objects ............................................................................................................................................................. 13
Horn ............................................................................................................................................................................. 13
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Motor Vehicle Equipment ........................................................................................................................................... 14
Headlights & Tail Lights ............................................................................................................................................... 14
Vehicle Light Distances ............................................................................................................................................... 14
Turn Signals................................................................................................................................................................. 15
Brake Lights ................................................................................................................................................................. 15
License Plate Lamp ..................................................................................................................................................... 15
Red Reflectors (rear) ................................................................................................................................................... 15
Muffler .......................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Mirror ........................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Brakes and Parking Brakes ......................................................................................................................................... 15
Horn ............................................................................................................................................................................. 15
Parking Lights .............................................................................................................................................................. 15
Windshield and Windshield Wipers ............................................................................................................................. 15
Window Tinting and Sun Screening ............................................................................................................................ 16
Seatbelts ...................................................................................................................................................................... 16
Additional Equipment Required on Certain Vehicles .................................................................................................... 16
Clearance Lamps and Side Marker Lamps ................................................................................................................. 16
Reflectors .................................................................................................................................................................... 16
Projecting Load Lamp or Flag ..................................................................................................................................... 16
Special Lighting for Farm Tractors & Implements of Husbandry ................................................................................. 16
Spot Lamps & Auxiliary Lamps (Fog Lamps) .............................................................................................................. 16
Additional Brake Requirements ................................................................................................................................... 17
Maintenance of Brakes ................................................................................................................................................ 17
Certain Warning Devices Prohibited ........................................................................................................................... 17
Mud Flaps Required .................................................................................................................................................... 17
Safety Chains .............................................................................................................................................................. 17
Driver Response to Emergency Vehicle Signals ......................................................................................................... 17
Certain Vehicles to Carry Flares or Other Warning Devices ....................................................................................... 17
Display of Warning Devices When Vehicles Disabled ................................................................................................. 18
Slow Moving Vehicles ........................................................................................................................................................ 18
Clean All Windows and Glass Surfaces...................................................................................................................... 18
Adjust Seat and Mirrors................................................................................................................................................ 19
Safety Belts Required ................................................................................................................................................... 19
Child Restraints Required ............................................................................................................................................ 20
CHAPTER 3 – SIGNS, SIGNALS, & MARKINGS ................................................................. 22
Know Signs by Their Shape and Color ...................................................................................................................... 22
Signs, Signals, and Road Markings ............................................................................................................................ 23
Signs ............................................................................................................................................................................ 23
Construction Zone ........................................................................................................................................................ 28
School Zone Safety Standards .................................................................................................................................... 29
School Zone ................................................................................................................................................................ 29
School Crossings......................................................................................................................................................... 29
School Speed Limit...................................................................................................................................................... 29
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Parking and Stopping .................................................................................................................................................. 29
Fines Doubled in School Zones .................................................................................................................................. 29
Traffic Signals ................................................................................................................................................................ 30
Pedestrian Signals ...................................................................................................................................................... 30
Vehicle Signals ............................................................................................................................................................ 30
Roundabouts in Montana ............................................................................................................................................. 32
Large Vehicles .................................................................................................................................................................... 32
Pedestrians .................................................................................................................................................................. 32
Bicyclists ...................................................................................................................................................................... 32
Emergency Vehicles .......................................................................................................................................................... 32
Railroad Crossing Warning Signs/Signals ................................................................................................................. 33
Advance Warning Signs .............................................................................................................................................. 33
Pavement Markings ..................................................................................................................................................... 33
Railroad Cross Buck Signs .......................................................................................................................................... 33
Flashing Light Signals ................................................................................................................................................. 33
Gates ........................................................................................................................................................................... 33
Road Markings .............................................................................................................................................................. 34
Pavement Markings ...................................................................................................................................................... 34
Edge and Lane Lines................................................................................................................................................... 34
Other Lane Controls .................................................................................................................................................... 35
No Lane Markings ....................................................................................................................................................... 35
CHAPTER 4 – DRIVING RULES ......................................................................................... 37
Driver Test for iPad and iPhone ................................................................................................................................... 37
General Driving ............................................................................................................................................................. 37
Speed Limits .................................................................................................................................................................. 38
Passing .......................................................................................................................................................................... 38
Turning................................................................................................................................................................................... 38
Right Turns ......................................................................................................................................................................... 38
Left Turns ............................................................................................................................................................................ 38
Turning Around ............................................................................................................................................................ 39
Right-of-Way .................................................................................................................................................................. 39
Pedestrians .................................................................................................................................................................. 39
Intersections ................................................................................................................................................................ 40
Crosswalks .................................................................................................................................................................. 40
Overtaking Vehicles ........................................................................................................................................................... 40
Emergency Vehicles .......................................................................................................................................................... 40
School Buses............................................................................................................................................................... 40
Funeral Procession ..................................................................................................................................................... 42
Bicyclists & Motorists………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….42
Same Road – Same Rules – Same Rights ................................................................................................................. 42
Equipment and Lighting Required for Bicycles ........................................................................................................... 44
Parking ........................................................................................................................................................................... 44
General Guidelines ...................................................................................................................................................... 44
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Parallel Parking ........................................................................................................................................................... 45
Parking on a Hill .......................................................................................................................................................... 45
No Parking Zones ........................................................................................................................................................ 46
Motor Vehicle Insurance ............................................................................................................................................... 47
Requirements .............................................................................................................................................................. 47
Consequences............................................................................................................................................................. 47
Self-Insurers ................................................................................................................................................................ 47
Montana Insurance Verification System (MTIVS) ....................................................................................................... 47
CHAPTER 5 – HOW TO DRIVE SAFELY ...................................................................................... 49
Don’t Be a Distracted Driver ........................................................................................................................................ 49
Basic Driving ................................................................................................................................................................. 50
Starting ........................................................................................................................................................................ 50
Accelerating ................................................................................................................................................................. 50
Steering ....................................................................................................................................................................... 50
Controlling Speed ........................................................................................................................................................ 51
Stopping ...................................................................................................................................................................... 51
Seeing Well .................................................................................................................................................................... 51
Scanning...................................................................................................................................................................... 52
Night Driving ................................................................................................................................................................ 55
Communicating ............................................................................................................................................................. 56
Letting Others Know You Are There ............................................................................................................................ 56
Letting Others Know What You Are Doing................................................................................................................... 57
Adjusting Speed ............................................................................................................................................................ 59
Adjusting to Road Conditions ...................................................................................................................................... 59
Adjusting to Traffic ....................................................................................................................................................... 61
Adjusting to How Well You Can See ........................................................................................................................... 63
Sharing Space ............................................................................................................................................................... 64
Space Ahead ............................................................................................................................................................... 64
Space Behind .............................................................................................................................................................. 65
Space to the Side ........................................................................................................................................................ 65
Space to Merge ........................................................................................................................................................... 66
Space to Cross or Enter .............................................................................................................................................. 66
Space for Passing ....................................................................................................................................................... 66
Space for Slow-Moving Vehicles and Animals ............................................................................................................ 67
Space for Special Situations ....................................................................................................................................... 68
CHAPTER 6 – PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS ....................................................................... 70
Vision, Hearing, & Fatigue ........................................................................................................................................... 70
Vision ........................................................................................................................................................................... 70
Drinking & Driving......................................................................................................................................................... 71
Why is Drinking and Driving So Dangerous? .............................................................................................................. 71
If You Drink, When Can You Drive? ............................................................................................................................. 71
Alcohol and the Law .................................................................................................................................................... 72
Report a Drunk Driver.................................................................................................................................................. 72
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Other Drugs & Driving .................................................................................................................................................. 73
Health ............................................................................................................................................................................. 73
Some health conditions can be very dangerous ......................................................................................................... 73
Emotions ........................................................................................................................................................................ 73
Senior Drivers ................................................................................................................................................................ 74
Considerations for Senior Citizens .............................................................................................................................. 74
To address these age-related issues, please consider the following points................................................................ 74
Giving Up Driving......................................................................................................................................................... 75
CHAPTER 7 – EMERGENCIES, CRASHES, & ENFORCEMENT STOPS .............................. 77
Vehicle Emergencies .................................................................................................................................................... 77
Brake Failure ............................................................................................................................................................... 77
Tire Blowout ................................................................................................................................................................. 77
Power Failure .............................................................................................................................................................. 77
Headlight Failure ......................................................................................................................................................... 77
Gas Pedal Sticks ......................................................................................................................................................... 77
Drift or Run off the Road.............................................................................................................................................. 78
Avoiding Collisions....................................................................................................................................................... 78
Stopping Quickly.......................................................................................................................................................... 78
Turning Quickly............................................................................................................................................................ 78
Speeding Up ................................................................................................................................................................ 79
Protect Yourself in Collisions ...................................................................................................................................... 79
Hit from the rear........................................................................................................................................................... 79
Hit from the side .......................................................................................................................................................... 79
Hit from the front .......................................................................................................................................................... 79
Accidents ....................................................................................................................................................................... 79
At the accident scene .................................................................................................................................................. 79
If someone is injured ................................................................................................................................................... 80
Report the accident ..................................................................................................................................................... 80
Enforcement Stops ....................................................................................................................................................... 81
CHAPTER 8 – PENALTIES & DRIVING RECORDS ............................................................. 83
Losing Your License ..................................................................................................................................................... 83
Your Driving Record ..................................................................................................................................................... 83
CHAPTER 9 - OTHER SERVICES ...................................................................................... 84
Voter Registration ......................................................................................................................................................... 84
Selective Service ........................................................................................................................................................... 84
Organ & Tissue Donation ............................................................................................................................................. 84
Living Will ...................................................................................................................................................................... 84
QUIZ ANSWERS ............................................................................................................... 85
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES ......................................................................................................... 86
REAL ID Checklist.......................................................................................................................................................... 87
HISTORY OF THE MONTANA LICENSE PLATE ......................................................................... 88
vi Montana Driver Manual www.dojmt.gov/driving
Save Time - Go Online
SAVE TIME - GO ONLINE
dojmt.gov/driving
mtrealid.gov
The Motor Vehicle Division offers several online services for your
convenience:
Appointment Scheduling
Online appointment scheduling lets you schedule, view, edit, or cancel an appointment for driver
licensing services from the convenience of your computer 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Scheduling online also helps you avoid waiting on the phone when Customer Care Center lines
are busy.
Driver License Renewal
The length of a standard driver license (without REAL ID) has changed to 12 years. Customers
may renew their driver license online by meeting the following requirements: Customer is a U.S.
Citizen, between the ages of 21-63, Eligible for renewal (6 months prior or within 1 year after
expiration date), has a valid driver license, a license that has not been suspended or revoked in
any state, prior renewal was not online or by mail. The customer will also need a photocopy of two
acceptable forms of identification, an eye evaluation (Form 22-1801), Medical Evaluation (Form 20-
1900), Online/ Mail-in Renewal Standard Driver License (Form 21-1900A). You can access online
services by visiting: https://dojmt.gov/driving/onlineservices/
Status Check
Enables customer to verify the current status of their Montana driver license. They may check the
license status, commercial status, Commercial Medical Examiner Certification (MEC) status by
entering the customer’s name, driver license number, last four digits of the Customer’s SSN, and
the customer’s date of birth.
Vehicle Registration Renewal
Enables customers to renew their vehicle registration online by entering the title number, vehicle
identification number (VIN), or vehicle number (found on newer titles). This service is available to
the public.
Vehicle Search
Allows users to instantly search for and view vehicle record information including owner
information, title history, and registration information. This is available to businesses and the
public.
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vii Montana Driver Manual www.dojmt.gov/driving
Driver History Records
Authorized users can instantly view driver record information by validating their user information
and entering the name, driver license number, and birth date of the driver whose record they are
requesting. The records do not display the driver’s Social Security number, address, or any
previous driver license numbers. The service is available to anyone who has a Montana driver
license or state-issued identification card. Available to the public and to authorized businesses
such as insurance agencies and trucking companies that routinely request large numbers of
driving records.
Temporary Registration Permits
Available to Montana vehicle dealers, vehicle services staff in county treasurer offices, and the
Title and Registration Bureau.
Fillable Forms & Downloadable Manuals
Over 80 forms and manuals are available at no cost on the MVD forms website. Most forms can
be filled out on your computer.
85 Montana Driver Manual www.dojmt.gov/driving
Quiz Answers
QUIZ ANSWERS
Chapter 1 - The Driver License
1. C
2. D
3. B
Chapter 5 - How to Drive Safely
1. D
2. D
3. C
4. C
5. A
6. B
7. B
8. D
Chapter 2 - Motor Vehicle Equipment
1. D
2. C
3. C
4. C
Chapter 6 - Physical Requirements
1. B
2. A
3. C
4. A
5. C
Chapter 3 - Signs, Signals, & Markings Chapter 7 - Emergencies, Crashes,
& Enforcement Stops
1. D
2. C
3. B
4. D
5. D
1. B
2. D
3. C
4. D
5. D
6. C
7. D
Chapter 4 - Driving Rules
1. C 5. D
2. B 6. A
3. B
4. D
Chapter 2 – Motor Vehicle Equipment
21 Montana Driver Manual www.dojmt.gov/driving
CHAPTER 2 QUIZ
1. Headlights are required at any time you cannot see persons or vehicles for 500 feet (because of snow,
dust, etc.) and:
A. When traffic is very heavy
B. During daylight savings time
C. From 1/2 hour before sunset to 1/2 hour after sunrise
D. From 1/2 hour after sunset to 1/2 hour before sunrise
2. A leaking exhaust system can:
A. Cause excessive oil use
B. Make your vehicle need a tune-up sooner than normal
C. Make you drowsy while driving
D. Set grass fires on country roads
3. Turn signals must be visible for:
A. 500 feet
B. 250 feet
C. 300 feet
D. Only visible at night
Chapter 3 – Signs, Signals, & Markings
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CHAPTER 3 QUIZ
1. The sign pictured at the right means that:
A. There is a bus stop ahead.
B. There is a stop sign ahead.
C. There is a caution sign ahead.
D. You must stop when other cars stop.
2. The sign pictured at the right means that:
A. You must drive slowly and sound horn.
B. You must watch for children in this area.
C. You must watch for children during school hours.
D. School ahead - slow down and watch for children at all times.
3. The sign pictured at the right means that:
A. The highway ahead turns only to the right.
B. The highway ahead turns sharply to the right.
C. The highway ahead turns to the right and then the left.
D. The highway ahead turns to the left and then to the right.
4. The sign pictured at the right means that:
A. Trucks are permitted on a narrow bridge.
B. The bridge ahead is open to one-way traffic only.
C. The bridge ahead is wide enough for one car at a time.
D. The bridge ahead may be too narrow to meet or pass a truck, you must be careful.
5. The sign pictured at the right means that:
A. There is a detour ahead.
B. You must stop for flaggers.
C. The road ahead is closed to traffic.
D. The highway ahead is being repaired, approach with caution.
6. The sign pictured at the right means that:
A. There are trucks hauling gravel ahead.
B. The highway ahead is under construction.
C. The highway ahead is covered with loose gravel.
D. The highway ahead has been sanded for icy conditions.
7. The shared center lane is reserved for:
A. Making left turns.
B. U-turns when they are permitted.
C. Can be used by vehicles traveling in both directions.
D. All of the above.
48 Montana Driver Manual www.dojmt.gov/driving
Chapter 4 – Driving Rules
CHAPTER 4 QUIZ
1. Upon hearing an emergency vehicle siren, a driver must:
A. Stop quickly where he is.
B. Stop and wait for a red or green light.
C. Stop at the right side of the street or roadway.
D. Increase speed and keep out of the way of the emergency vehicle.
2. When dealing with pedestrians, a driver must:
A. Make very sure the pedestrian sees him/her.
B. Yield the right-of-way, even if the pedestrian is in the wrong.
C. Always yield the right-of-way when the pedestrian is legally entitled to it.
D. Slow down and sound the horn when entering a heavily congested area.
3. Upon meeting or overtaking a school bus from either direction that has stopped on the highway with
its red lights lashing, a driver must:
A. Stop before reaching the bus and not proceed until the bus has resumed motion.
B. Stop before reaching the bus and not proceed until the red lights have been extinguished.
C. Stop before reaching the bus and proceed only when all children have loaded or unloaded.
D. Stop and not proceed until the way is clear.
4. When encountering a funeral procession, a driver:
A. May not drive between the vehicles forming the procession unless authorized by a police officer.
B. May not enter an intersection to cross the path of a funeral procession as it is proceeding through a
red traffic control device.
C. Must yield the right-of-way to a motor vehicle that is part of the funeral procession.
D. All of the above.
5. When approaching an uncontrolled intersection, a driver should:
A. Maintain speed and proceed.
B. Stop at the intersection, check all directions, and proceed when safe.
C. Slow down and yield to all drivers.
D. Take his/her foot off the accelerator, cover the brake, look left, right, and left again, and be prepared to
yield.
6. It is permissible to drive a motor vehicle to the left of the centerline of a highway:
A. When overtaking and passing another vehicle.
B. When you have 500 feet of clear road ahead and to the rear.
C. When the shoulder of the road is rough and the ditch is deep.
D. When the road is clear of vehicles coming from the opposite direction.
69 Montana Driver Manual www.dojmt.gov/driving
Chapter 5 – How To Drive Safely
CHAPTER 5 QUIZ
1. At dusk or on overcast days, you should:
A. Drive with your four-way flashers on.
B. Drive with your parking lights on.
C. Not turn any vehicle lights on.
D. Turn on your vehicle lights.
2. You should be cautious when passing a bicycle because:
A. You are going faster than the bicycle.
B. The bicycle always has the right-of-way.
C. Oncoming traffic may not see you pull out to pass.
D. The cyclist may have to swerve into traffic to avoid an object on the road.
3. In order to avoid last-minute braking, or the need to turn, you should look down the road at least:
A. 2 seconds ahead of your vehicle.
B. 4 seconds ahead of your vehicle.
C. 10 seconds ahead of your vehicle.
D. 15 seconds ahead of your vehicle.
4. Driving at night requires increased caution because:
A. Traffic is faster at night.
B. There is a larger volume of traffic at night.
C. A driver cannot see as well at night.
D. Accidents occur more frequently at night.
5. Other than by your turn signals, other motorists can sometimes determine your intention to turn by:
A. Your vehicle positions and eye contact.
B. The turning of your wheels.
C. You slowing up at the corner.
D. The actions of the car behind you.
6. A good rule to remember for passing is:
A. Pass on the right whenever possible.
B. Drive with the flow of traffic, passing only as needed.
C. Try to get to the front of any line of slow moving traffic so that you can see better.
D. Always flash your lights and sound your horn to alert the other driver.
7. “Hydroplaning” is best described as:
A. Your tires pushing water out of their paths.
B. Your tires actually floating on a film of water.
C. Your tires causing sheets of water to splash on passing vehicles.
D. Your tires throwing water to the rear, causing problems for following vehicles.
8. If you become stranded in a snow storm, the best thing to do is:
A. Get out of the car and go for help.
B. Lay down in the car and go to sleep.
C. Keep the windows rolled up tight, keeping the engine running at all times.
D. Stay in the car, as you are more likely to be found.
76 Montana Driver Manual www.dojmt.gov/driving
Chapter 6 – Physical Requirements
CHAPTER 6 QUIZ
1. Your body gets rid of:
A. Three alcoholic drinks an hour
B. One alcoholic drink an hour
C. Two alcoholic drinks an hour
D. None of the above
2. To help relieve fatigue on a trip, it is a good idea to:
A. Stop for a rest every two hours
B. Do arm exercises every hour
C. Drive with one eye open at a time
D. Change feet on the gas pedal
3. The main reason why drinking alcohol and then driving is so dangerous is that it affects your:
A. Coordination
B. Vision
C. Judgment and skill
D. Reflexes
4. Stress can affect your driving by:
A. Lessening your concentration on the driving task
B. Decreasing your chances of an accident
C. Causing you to go to sleep at the wheel
D. Making you more aware of others around you
5. What is the number one killer on Montana’s roads?
A. Poor or unkempt roads
B. Inclement weather/driving conditions
C. Drunk drivers
D. Excessive speed
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Chapter 7 – Emergencies, Crashes, & Enforcement Stops
CHAPTER 7 QUIZ
1. What should you do if your vehicle’s right wheels leave the pavement?
A. Stop quickly
B. Pull all the way off and wait until it is safe to get back on the road
C. Accelerate and steer back on the road quickly
D. Take your foot off the gas and when you are slowed down, ease back on the road when it is safe to do so
2. What should you do if your accelerator sticks while driving?
A. Reach down and attempt to pull it up
B. Shift to park
C. Shift to neutral and apply steady pressure on the brake
D. Turn the engine off
3. When involved in an accident as a driver:
A. Do not exchange information with other drivers
B. Exchange all information with other drivers
C. Deny responsibility for the accident
D. Let the other driver report the accident
4. When approaching an accident scene, you should:
A. Keep your attention on your driving
B. Keep moving
C. Stop if you are involved or if emergency help has not arrived
D. All of the above
5. If involved in an accident, a driver should:
A. Stop their vehicle at or near the scene
B. Do not stand or walk in traffic lanes
C. Turn off the ignitions of wrecked vehicles
D. All of the above
83 Montana Driver Manual www.dojmt.gov/driving
Chapter 8 – Penalties & Driving Records
CHAPTER 8 – PENALTIES & DRIVING RECORDS
► LOSING YOUR LICENSE
Many people get into serious trouble with their driver license because they do not learn or understand the responsibili-
ties of having a license. A license is a privilege and can be suspended, revoked, or cancelled when the driver
breaks the law.
Impaired driving, distracted driving, driving with a suspended or revoked license, and being a minor in possession are
examples of choices that can cause you to lose your license.
To learn more about penalties, visit www.dojmt.gov/driving/driver-license-sanctions-2/ Additional information is
on the Montana Department of Transportation website www.mdt.mt.gov/safety; look for Safety Information and Traffic
Safety Programs.
► YOUR DRIVING RECORD
Your driving record maintains important details about: your application for a driver license, the examination process,
the subsequent issuance, denial, revocation, suspension or cancellation of a license, driver performance, and any
other action taken in response to unsafe driver performance or other legal requirements.
A record features information in five major categories:
■ personal history information
■ licensing information
■ conviction/accident history
■ driver license sanctions
■ motor vehicle accident history
For instructions on how to request your driving record, visit www.dojmt.gov/driving/driving-records or call
the Montana Motor Vehicle Division Customer Care Center at 1-406-444-1772.
84 Montana Driver Manual www.dojmt.gov/driving
Chapter 9 - Other Services
CHAPTER 9 - OTHER SERVICES
► VOTER REGISTRATION
You can register to vote at any Montana driver exam station. The voter registration form will be forwarded to the
proper election administrator and a voter registration card will be mailed to you. If you were registered to vote, but
did not vote in the last presidential election, you should fill out a voter registration card to make sure your registration
stays valid. You may visit the Montana Secretary of State “My Voter Page” at https://app.mt.gov/voterinfo/ to check if
you are registered to vote, check your voter registration address, and to find the location and direction to your polling
place.
► SELECTIVE SERVICE
Young men who are at least 15 years old and not older than 26 are required to register with the Selective Service in
compliance with the federal Military Selective Service Act, 50 App. USC 453. An individual must be able to fulfill those
registration requirements when applying for an instruction permit, basic driver license, CDL, or Montana ID card.
If under 18 years old but at least 15 years old, an individual must be able to be registered by the selective service
system upon turning 18 years old. An individual will have the opportunity to register when filling out an application at a
Montana driver licensing exam station.
► ORGAN & TISSUE DONATION
There are several reasons to be an organ and tissue donor, including to:
■ save another’s life
■ improve someone’s life
■ contribute to the advancement of medical science
You can become an organ and tissue donor by:
■ requesting to have it marked on your driver license
■ going to the organ donor website at www.donatelifetoday.com
■ calling, toll-free, 1-877-275-5269
Be sure to discuss your participation with your relatives, physician, and friends.
If you want to make changes to your donation wishes or decide you no longer want to be an organ and tissue donor,
visit the website at www.donatelifetoday.com or call the toll-free number at 1-877-275-5269 to update or deactivate
your record.
A minor who is at least 15 years old can request an organ donor designation on his/her driver license. Parent, guardian
or responsible adult authorization is not required.
► LIVING WILL
If you are 18 or older, you can choose to have your driver license indicate that you have a living will.
86 Montana Driver Manual www.dojmt.gov/driving
Additional Resources
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
► DROWSY DRIVING
Drowsy driving is common on U.S. roads and represents a highly pervasive threat to public health and transportation
safety. Driving while drowsy can have the same consequences as driving while under the influence of drugs or
alcohol. Drowsiness can impair the ability to drive safely, even if the driver does not fall asleep. Drowsy driving usually
occurs at high speeds making it difficult to avoid a crash. A recent AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety study showed
13% of crashes in which a person was hospitalized and 21% of crashes in which a person was killed involved a
drowsy driver.
After being awake for 18 hours straight, driving skills are the same as someone under the influence of drugs or
alcohol. Driving drowsy can increase your crash risk. You often cannot react in time to apply brakes or steer away
from a potential crash. Crashes related to drowsy driving can be very serious, leading to death or severe injuries. If
you drive while drowsy, you may become slower to respond to road and traffic conditions. You may struggle to
process complex information coming from different places at once. You may become careless when making driving
decisions, have trouble paying attention, or actually fall asleep while driving.
More information available at www.aasmnet.org
► EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SYSTEM (ENS) FOR RAILROADS
According to Operation Lifesaver website: “This is a sign, posted at or near a crossing,
which lists a telephone number along with a US DOT number. The ENS is used to notify
the railroad of an emergency or warning device malfunction.”
More information available at oli.org/training/presentation-highway-rail-crossing-
questions-and-answers
► CHILD SAFETY: HEATSTROKE
According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) website: “Heatstroke is one of the leading
causes of non-crash-related fatalities among children. Vehicle heatstroke occurs when a child is left in a hot vehicle,
allowing for the child’s temperature to rise in a quick and deadly manner. Heatstroke begins when the core body
temperature reaches about 104 degrees and the thermoregulatory system is overwhelmed. A core body temperature
of about 107 degrees is lethal. Unfortunately, even great parents can forget a child in the back seat. Other risk factors
include caregivers who aren’t used to driving kids, or whose routine suddenly changes.”
More information available at nhtsa.gov/road-safety/child-safety
► TRUCKERS AGAINST TRAFFICKING
According to the Truckers Against Trafficking’s (TAT) website: “Truckers Against Trafficking recognizes that members
of the trucking industry and individual truckers are invaluable in the fight against the heinous crime of human
trafficking. As the eyes and ears of our nation’s highways, truckers are in a unique position to make a difference and
close loopholes to traffickers who seek to exploit the U.S. transportation system for their personal gain.”
More information available at truckersagainsttrafficking.org
87 Montana Driver Manual www.dojmt.gov/driving
Additional Resources
► REAL ID CHECKLIST
For a current list of acceptable documents, visit mtrealid.gov/required-docs.
88 Montana Driver Manual www.dojmt.gov/driving
History Of The Montana License Plate
HISTORY OF THE MONTANA LICENSE PLATE
What would lead to the need for license plates began in 1891 when the Second Legislative Assembly passed an act
establishing taxation on all property in the state (with exceptions). In 1913, the Legislature recognized motor vehicles
as property and in 1919 provided for the specific classification of automobiles, motor trucks, and other power-driven
vehicles.
Taxation on motor vehicles was put into effect in 1913 for the purpose of raising revenue for the construction,
maintenance, and improvement of public highways. A license fee of $5 to $20 was charged depending on the
horsepower of the vehicle.
Registration of vehicles, including all identifying features of the vehicle and the name and address of the
owner, was also put into effect in 1913. A Registrar of Motor Vehicles was designated and it became his
responsibility to assign a distinctive number to be displayed on the front and rear of each vehicle. These numbers
were issued in numerical sequence as the registrations were received. Since the state was not yet providing a license
plate, many vehicle owners would inscribe the registration number on a piece of leather or other article and attach it to
their vehicle.
Montana began issuing license plates in 1914. The first plate displayed only the plate number. The 1915-1916
plates displayed “MON,” the year, and the plate number. A prefix number was assigned in 1926, which designated
population centers as they existed in 1914. The first prison-made plates were issued in 1928, and “MONTANA” was
spelled out; plates prior to 1928 were manufactured out of state. Approximately 127,215 plates were manufactured in
1928. In 1933, the prefix number was revised to designate the county in which that vehicle was registered. The words
“PRISON MADE” were stamped into plates during the years 1939-1957.
The state map, which outlines the standard issue license plate of today, was first found on the 1933 orange and
maroon plate, and the bison skull was first added for a single year in 1938.
The “Treasure State” slogan was first used in 1950 and changed to the popular “Big Sky Country” slogan in 1967.
That would be used until 2010 when “Treasure State” was reintroduced.
During 1944, license plates were manufactured from pressed soybean fiberboard due to a shortage of steel caused
by the war. Goats, cows, and mice reportedly enjoyed the taste of these plates, with some vehicle owners losing their
plates to a snack for the animals.
Steel was replaced by aluminum in 1960. New resources initiated another change in 1967 when reflectorized
materials were introduced. Adhesive registration decals were first used in 1968, replacing the metal insert tags
dating to 1954.
Montana currently offers five standard-issue plate designs and over 190 specialty and collegiate plates.
For the complete history of license plates in Montana, visit www.dojmt.gov/driving/license-plates/
license-plate-history/.
For general license plate information, visit www.dojmt.gov/driving/license-plates/.
To see the specialty and collegiate license plates, visit www.dojmt.gov/driving/plate-designs-and-fees/.
To see a list of license plate and title and registration statistics and collected fees, visit www.dojmt.gov/driving/
mvd-by-the-numbers/.
Montana Department of Justice
Motor Vehicle Division
Driver Services Bureau
302 North Roberts
P.O. Box 201430
Helena, MT 59620-1430
MVD Customer Care Center
1-406-444-1772
Monday - Friday
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Go online to dojmt.gov/driving or mtrealid.gov
for comprehensive, up-to-date information regarding:
■ Fees
■ Required documents
■ Driver licensing requirements
■ Driver exam station hours and locations
■ County Treasurer office locations and phone numbers
Schedule an Appointment
Online: www.dojmt.gov/driving/appointments
Phone: 1-406-444-1772
TTY 1-406-444-1987
MONTANA DRIVER MANUAL
The Montana Department of Justice, Motor Vehicle Division attempts to provide accommodations for any known
disability that may interfere with a person participating in any service, program, or activity of this document and
auxiliary aids will be provided upon request. For information please contact the Motor Vehicle Division.
Revised August 2022
20,000 copies of this public document were published at an estimated cost of $0.21 per copy, for a total cost of
$4294.42 for printing and $0.00 for distribution.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the Montana DMV written test?
The Montana (MT) DMV written knowledge test typically consists of 20–50 multiple-choice questions. The exact number varies — check the official Montana DMV website for the current format.
What topics are covered in the Montana driver's handbook?
The Montana driver's handbook covers traffic laws and regulations, road signs and signals, safe driving practices, right-of-way rules, speed limits, DUI/DWI laws, and vehicle operation requirements specific to Montana.
Is the Montana driver's handbook available in Spanish?
Many states provide their driver's handbook in multiple languages. Download links for all available languages — including Spanish, Russian, Chinese, and more — are listed above on this page.
How do I pass the Montana DMV written test?
Study the official Montana driver's handbook thoroughly, then take free practice tests at DMVSOS.com to reinforce what you've learned. Most test-takers who study the full handbook and complete several practice tests pass on their first attempt.