Montana moves deadlines for registering vehicles

HELENA — The governor’s office last week issued a directive temporarily suspending certain requirements for online driver’s license renewal and extending deadlines for vehicle registration. Issued in response to COVID-19, these changes will help protect the health of Montanans.

“We are committed to protecting the health and safety of our customers and staff,” said Sarah Garcia, Montana Department of Justice Motor Vehicle Division administrator. “The online and mail-in options give MVD another way to minimize exposure to the public and MVD employees.”

During this time, citizens needing a driver’s license renewal will be allowed to self-certify their ability to drive instead of requiring forms signed by medical and vision professionals.

Online and mail-in renewals will be good for a maximum of two years and will be offered for the duration of the declared state-of-emergency.

While exam stations will remain open, the Motor Vehicle Division asks Montanans to utilize the online or mail-in renewal option if able.  Additional options are available for mail-in renewals, shown at https://dojmt.gov/driving .

A few reminders:

• All Montana-issued Class D driver licenses that expired March 1, 2020, until May 30, 2020, remain valid for an additional 90 days after their expiration date.

• Class D driving tests have been suspended until at least April 18, 2020.

• To help with social distancing, customers in driver’s license station waiting areas will be limited.

• Commercial driver licenses and medical cards will be given an extension until June 30, 2020, if the card expired March 1, 2020, or later.

Vehicle registration deadlines also are extended. A 90-day extension will be provided to dealerships to submit paperwork to county offices and vehicle owners to title and register any vehicles transferred after March 16, 2020.

Renewals may be completed online up to 30 days past the month shown on the vehicle’s registration tab.

For more information about MVD services go to http://www.dojmt.gov/driving .