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This page will answer the most common questions we receive about motorcycle laws and licensing requirements in Montana.
Continue reading to find your answer and follow links to explore some of these topics in greater depth.
Motorcycle Helmet Law in Montana
Motorcycle helmets are required for riders under 18 years old.
A motorcycle helmet is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment. Wearing one can greatly reduce your chances of being seriously injured or killed if you are involved in a motorcycle crash.
Read more about motorcycle helmet laws and safety.
Montana Motorcycle Noise Restrictions & Exhaust Requirements
A proper muffler is required.
Noise limits for motorcycles are a maximum of 96 decibels measured at 20 inches away from the exhaust.
Noise restrictions may be enforced by local law enforcement or during periodic inspections.
Local jurisdictions may have their own ordinances regarding motorcycle noise limits.
Motorcycle Safety Inspections and Equipment Requirements
Period safety and equipment inspections for motorcycles in Montana are not required.
Motorcycle Passenger Laws in Montana
There are no specific passenger restrictions for motorcycles in Montana.
Whenever you ride with a passenger:
- Be sure to give them instructions on what they’ll need to do.
- Make sure they can comfortably reach the passenger handholds and footrests.
- Make sure that they are wearing all of the necessary motorcycle safety equipment.
Learn more about riding with passengers on your motorcycle.
Requirements for Daytime Running Lights for Motorcycles in Montana
Using daytime headlights is required for motorcycles in Montana.
Using headlights during the day can help to increase your visibility to other drivers.
This is a smart thing to do regardless of whether the law requires it.
Montana Lane Splitting Laws
Lane splitting is not specifically mentioned as legal or illegal in Montana.
There are some nuances to lane splitting, lane filtering, and lane sharing.
Learn more about lane splitting.
Motorcycle Title Laws & VIN Verifications
The state of Montana issues titles to all motorcycles.
If you buy a motorcycle without a title or are moving from a state that doesn’t issue titles, the registration documents and the Bill of Sale should serve as proof of ownership.
Learn more about motorcycle registration and title requirements in Montana.
Find some helpful tips for when you buy a motorcycle.
Minimum Motorcycle Insurance Coverage in Montana
Motorcycle insurance is required in Montana.
Remember, the minimum liability requirements kick in during the event of a collision with another vehicle. If you need more coverage for things like theft, single vehicle collisions, and other types of damage you’ll need to get a policy with comprehensive and collision coverage as well.
Compare quotes for free, and find cheaper motorcycle insurance.
Learn more about motorcycle insurance in Montana.
Motorcycle Safety Course Requirements & Details
An approved motorcycle safety course is not required to get a motorcycle license in Montana.
Completing the course will waive the requirements for the skills test.
A motorcycle safety course is a great way to get familiar with the basics of riding, learn about the most important motorcycle laws, and become a safer, smarter rider. No riding experience is necessary to complete a course.
Learn more about motorcycle safety courses and Basic Rider Training programs.
Is a Driver’s License Required to get a Motorcycle Endorsement in Montana?
Before you get a Montana motorcycle license, you will not need to already have a standard driver’s license.
Motorcycle Permit & Licensing Requirements in Montana
A motorcycle instruction permit is not required.
In order to get the permit, you’ll need to pass a written test.
In Montana, motorcycle permit restrictions include supervised riding only.
The permit is valid for up to 1 year, and cannot be renewed.
Learn how to get a motorcycle license in Montana.
Montana Motorcycle License Age Requirements
The minimum age to begin the Montana motorcycle licensing process is 16 years old without training or 15 years old if you complete a motorcycle safety course.