Vehicle Titling and Registration in Montana

Montana Vehicle Titling and Registration

In Montana, vehicles are titled at the same time they are registered through the Vehicle Services Bureau (VSB). Having a valid title and registration is required to own and operate a vehicle. You will need to title and register a vehicle when you:

• Purchase a vehicle. You have 40 days from the date of purchase to transfer the title and register.
• Move to Montana from another state. You will have 60 days from establishing residency to complete the transaction.

Title and Register a Vehicle in Montana

Whether you just purchased a vehicle or moved to Montana from another state, you’ll have to title and register your vehicle at your local county treasurer’s office. There, you’ll be asked to provide the:

• Registration receipt for the previous year OR an out-of-state title. If the vehicle was purchased from a dealership, the paperwork will be sent to the treasurer by the dealer.
  • Vehicles purchased from a private seller must be signed by both parties and notarized.
• Completed Statement of Fact (MV100) This may not be required at all county treasurer’s offices.
• Payment for all applicable fees and taxes.

What if the Title is Missing?

If the person selling the vehicle is no longer in possession of the certificate of title, you can apply for a bonded title at the county treasurer’s office. Vehicles worth an estimated $500 or more according to the National Appraisal Guide (NADA) as of January 1 of the current year require a bond purchased through an insurance company.

Applying for a bonded title at a your county treasurer’s office will require:

• A completed Application for Break/Bond Title (Form MV10).
• A notarized bill-of-sale, cancelled check, or purchase invoice for the vehicle.
• Payment for the applicable fees.

Montana Title and Registration Fees

Title fees and late fees may vary by county.

Registration fees are as follows:

• Vehicle that is 0 to 4 years old: $217 per year.
• Vehicle that is 5 to 10 years old: $87 per year.
• Vehicle that is 11 years old or older: $28 per year.
• Permanent registration (available for vehicles 11 years old or older): $97.50 + county tax. An additional $5 fee applies if you want to keep the existing plates.
• 3% administrative fee.

A county option tax fee may also apply. See the registration fee schedule for a detailed breakdown of costs.