Montana Driving Records

A driving record is a brief summary of a licensed driver's past on the road and reveals key details about their behavior and risk level. These documents are commonly used to evaluate individuals for insurance coverage, employment opportunities, and legal considerations.

Specific regulations govern the upkeep and availability of driving records. Familiarizing oneself with these regulations is key for drivers wanting to safeguard their driving privileges and for organizations aiming to mitigate potential risks associated with having individuals with problematic driving backgrounds.

What Is a Montana Driving Record?

Montana driving records are official documents that provide a comprehensive look at an individual's driving activities in the state.

The Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD), a Montana Department of Justice branch, maintains and updates these documents and permits individuals and businesses to request copies for personal or professional use.

What Is The Difference Between Official Driving Records and Public Driving Records

Official driving records and public driving records in Montana serve different purposes and are accessed by different entities.

Official driving records are comprehensive records maintained by the MVD. They are available only to certain authorized parties, such as the individual driver, employers (with the driver's consent), government agencies, and insurance companies for official purposes like legal proceedings, background checks, and employment or insurance evaluations.

On the other hand, public driving records in Montana are generally available to anyone upon request and may not contain as detailed information as official driving records. Although public driving records contain basic information, they lack the detail and official status of those accessed by government agencies and other authorized entities.

You may request public driving records from various sources, including third-party providers like RecordsFinder.

Why Would You Need a Driving Record?

Obtaining a driving record in Montana is essential for various purposes. Below are the most common reasons why someone might need their Montana driving record:

• Employment Purposes: Employers, especially those in transportation, delivery, or jobs requiring a company vehicle, may request a driving record to ensure an applicant has a clean and responsible driving history.
• Insurance Rate Assessment: Auto insurance companies evaluate risk by using driving reports. A clean record leads to lower premiums, while a history of violations could result in higher rates.
• License Reinstatement: Individuals whose driver's license has been suspended or revoked may need to present their driver record to show compliance with reinstatement requirements.
• Court Requirements or Legal Proceedings: A court may require an official driving record as part of a legal case, especially in traffic-related offenses, DUI hearings, or accident liability disputes.
• Personal Review: Drivers may want to check their record for accuracy or to monitor points, violations, or suspensions to avoid surprises or future penalties.

What Information Is Included in a Driver Report?

A Montana driver report contains varying information depending on its source. However, it typically includes the following:

• Personal information
  • Full name
  • Date of birth
  • Address
• Driver's license information
  • Driver license number
  • License class
  • License issuance and expiration dates
  • License status (valid, suspended, revoked, expired, etc.)
  • Endorsements or restrictions
• Convictions and traffic violations
  • List of moving and non-moving violations
  • Court convictions
  • Dates of offenses
  • Location and description of violations
  • Points assessed for each violation
• Administrative actions
  • Suspensions, revocations, or cancellations
  • Reasons for actions
  • Dates of actions were taken and reinstated
• Accident History
  • Reported crashes
  • Date and location of the accident
  • Indication of fault

Types of Driver Records Available in Montana

In Montana, two primary types of driver records are available: the basic driver record and the commercial driver record.

The basic driver record provides a comprehensive overview of an individual's driving history. This record typically includes personal information, licensing details, traffic violations, sanctions imposed, and motor vehicle accident history. It spans the driver's entire lifetime but excludes sensitive information such as medical status and license expiration dates.

Notably, basic records contain information about individuals who only possess a Montana identification card, those without any Montana credentials, and out-of-state drivers who received tickets resulting in sanctions while in Montana.

On the other hand, the commercial driver record is tailored for professional drivers. It usually includes all the information found in a basic type, along with additional data specific to commercial driving, such as medical qualifications. As mandated by Montana law, access to commercial driver records is more restricted, limiting who may obtain this information.

Both types of records may be obtained uncertified or certified. An uncertified copy may suffice for personal or informal uses, while a certified copy is essential for official matters.

Traffic Violations and Tickets in Montana

Traffic violations in Montana refer to any breach of the state's laws or regulations governing the operation of motor vehicles on public roads. These are primarily governed by Title 61 of the Montana Code Annotated (MCA).

Various state and local authorities enforce traffic laws and issue tickets to violators. These usually include the Montana Highway Patrol, county sheriff's offices, and city or municipal police.

Common Types of Traffic Violations

Montana traffic violations are categorized as moving or non-moving. They range from minor infractions to serious criminal offenses like misdemeanors and felonies, depending on the severity and whether it's a repeat offense. Below are some of the most frequently encountered traffic violations in Montana, along with their typical penalties:

• Speeding: Punishable by fines that range depending on the amount over the speed limit and points on the driving record.
• Reckless Driving: Operating a vehicle disregarding the safety of others on the road is punishable by up to $500 fines and a 6-month jail term. Points are added to the license, and there is a possible suspension for repeat offenders.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Depending on the number of offenses, violators can face a $1000 fine, a six-month jail term, license suspension, and mandatory DUI education.
• Distracted Driving: Penalties vary by local ordinance but generally include fines ranging from $50 to $100.
• Running a Red Light: Fines of up to $100, points on license, and potential increase in insurance premiums.

What to Do When You Get a Traffic Ticket

Traffic tickets are official notices issued by enforcement officers to road users alleged to have violated a traffic law. You may receive one during a traffic stop, through a mailed notice, or after an accident investigation.

You may follow the procedures below to handle traffic tickets correctly in Montana:

• Read the Ticket Carefully
  • Check the type of violation, location, officer's name, and court date.
  • Note whether it's a mandatory court appearance or if it can be handled by mail or online.
  • Pay attention to deadlines to avoid late fees or license suspension.
• Decide How to Respond. In Montana, you usually have three options on how to respond to traffic tickets:
  • Pay the Fine: This option admits fault, and points may be added to your driving record. You may pay the traffic ticket in person at the court indicated on the ticket or online via the Online Payment System of Montana Courts.
  • Contest the Ticket: If you believe you are not guilty, you may request a hearing. You may appear in court with your attorney and present evidence and witnesses proving your innocence. Results of the hearing are at the judges' discretion.
  • Request a Mitigation Hearing: This option also admits the violation, but it asks for a reduced penalty. You may request this by submitting a written statement.
• Monitor Your Driving Record

Request a copy of your driving record to monitor if the violation is reflected correctly in your record. This is a proactive way to avoid mistakes impacting your driving privileges.

How Does the Montana Point System Work?

Like most states, Montana has a driver's license point system to monitor and penalize traffic rule violators. In this system, when a driver is convicted of a traffic offense, points are assigned to their driving record based on the severity of the offense. Here are some examples of common violations and their accompanying points:

• DUI: 10 points
• Reckless driving: 5 points
• Driving without a valid license: 4 points
• Speeding: At least 2 points, depending on how far you exceed the speed limit
• Failure to yield, disobeying traffic signals/signs: 2 points

Montana has thresholds for point accumulation that may lead to license suspension:

• 15 points within 36 months: License suspension for 6 months
• 30 points or more: Possible revocation of driving privileges as a habitual traffic offender

How Long Do Violations Stay on Your Driving History?

Most traffic violations in Montana remain on records for 3 years. However, if you are convicted of subsequent DUI offenses, they may impact your driving record for 5 years.

Can You Remove Violations from Your Record?

Removing traffic violations from your driving record is limited and depends on the nature of the offense and the legal remedies available.

For certain traffic offenses, Montana courts may offer a deferred imposition of sentence. If granted, and you complete all court-ordered conditions, the conviction may be dismissed, and the associated points removed from your driving record.

Montana law also allows individuals to petition for the expungement of certain misdemeanor convictions, including some traffic-related offenses. To be eligible, you must have no convictions for five years following your sentence and not have new offenses.

Note that offenses such as DUI, assault, and other serious crimes are subject to stricter scrutiny and may not be eligible for expungement.

How To Check Your Vehicle History

To check or request your Montana motor vehicle history, you may utilize one of the options offered by the Montana MVD:

• Online:
  • Visit the Montana MVD online service page.
  • Under the Driver Services section, select "Purchase a driver record".
  • Verify your identity by providing your full name, birth date, license number, and the last six digits of your Social Security Number.
  • Pay the required fee and receive your driving record in electronic format.
• By Mail:
  • Download and complete the Release of Driving Records Form 34-0100.
  • Enclose a fee and a self-addressed stamped envelope.

  • Mail the complete package to the address below:

    Motor Vehicle Division

    P.O. Box 201430, Helena, MT 59602-1430

• In Person
  • Print and fill out the Form 34-0100.
  • Submit the form along with the required payment and valid identification (if applicable) to an MVD location.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Driving Record in Montana?

The cost for obtaining a driving record in Montana is $4.12, with a certified copy costing $10.30 per record. If you request it by mail, an additional $3.09 applies (unless a self-addressed stamped envelope is included).

The processing time for online requests is immediate upon successful payment. For in-person requests, the request will be processed the same day. If you mail your requests, allow up to two weeks for delivery.

How To Check Your Driving History for Free?

The Montana MVD charges fees for obtaining copies of driving records. However, you may check with local courts to access information regarding traffic violation cases for free. You may also inquire about your insurer or utilize third-party services to reveal information on your driving history at no cost.

What Happens If You Have a Bad Driving Record?

A bad driving record typically includes a history of traffic violations, accidents, and other infractions that indicate a pattern of risky or unlawful driving behavior. Depending on the nature and severity of the violations, individuals with a poor driving record may face various consequences.

Most non-moving violations, such as parking tickets, do not appear on your driving record. These offenses are typically punishable by fines.

In contrast, moving violations, such as DUI, speeding, or reckless driving, are considered more serious and often carry heavier penalties. These typically include substantial fines, license suspensions, jail time, or even permanent revocation of driving privileges. Such violations are also recorded on your official driving record.

Note that warnings issued by law enforcement do not go on your official driving record. This applies whether the warning is verbal or written.

How Does a Bad Driving Record Affect Insurance and Employment?

Insurance companies rely heavily on your driving record to assess risk. If you have multiple traffic violations or are found at fault in accidents, expect significantly higher premiums or difficulty securing standard insurance coverage.

In more serious cases, such as DUI or driving without insurance, the state may require you to file an SR-22, a certificate of financial responsibility. This requirement may cause insurance rates to rise sharply and typically remains in effect for several years.

Beyond higher insurance costs, a poor driving record may also limit your job prospects, especially for driving-related positions. Many employers perform background checks and may disqualify candidates with poor driving histories. In some cases, repeated violations may even lead to the termination of current employees, especially if their role involves operating a company vehicle.

Who Can Access Your Montana Driving History?

The federal Driver's Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) restricts the disclosure of personal information on your driving records and only allows access to specific, legally permitted purposes. The MCA Sections 61-11-102 and 61-11-105 align with the federal mandate by outlining how the Montana MVD releases driver records, specifying allowable uses, and requiring consent in most requests.

Below are the entities that may access your official Montana driving history report following the mentioned federal and state mandates:

• You (the driver or record-holder)
• Employers (for employment purposes)
• Insurance companies (for determining risk and premiums)
• Law enforcement agencies (for investigative or regulatory purposes)
• Courts and legal representatives (for legal proceedings)
• Government agencies (for official functions)
• Entities with written consent from the record holder

FAQs About Montana Driving Records

To learn more about Montana driving records, check the following frequently asked questions:

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