Minimum Coverage Requirements in Montana
Montana requires minimum liability coverage of 25/50/25: $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. Drivers convicted of DUI, caught driving without insurance, or who accumulate excessive violations typically receive an SR-22 requirement from the Montana Motor Vehicle Division. The state does not offer hardship permits for most suspended drivers, making SR-22 compliance the primary path to reinstatement.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Montana?
Montana high-risk premiums depend on violation severity, driver age, location, and coverage level. DUI offenders typically see rate increases of 150–300% over standard premiums, while drivers with SR-22 for uninsured violations face 100–200% surcharges. Rates begin dropping after 12–24 months of clean driving, with most drivers eligible for standard carriers after 3–5 years.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type: DUI increases rates 150–300%, while uninsured violations add 100–200%
- Time since violation: Surcharges decrease 10–20% annually after the first year with clean driving
- SR-22 duration remaining: Drivers with 1 year left often qualify for better rates than new filers
- Location: Billings and Missoula high-risk premiums run 15–25% higher than rural Montana due to accident frequency
- Age and experience: Drivers under 25 with DUI convictions often pay $400–$600/mo for minimum coverage
- Coverage level: Adding collision and comprehensive to SR-22 policies increases premiums 40–60%
Compare rates from carriers that work with drivers who have points
Standard carriers surcharge heavily after violations. These specialists price your specific record differently.
Get Your Free QuoteCoverage Types
Liability Insurance
Covers injuries and property damage you cause to others. Montana's 25/50/25 minimums are legally sufficient but financially inadequate for most at-fault accidents.
Full Coverage
Liability plus collision and comprehensive coverage. Required by lenders and recommended for vehicles worth more than $5,000.
SR-22 Insurance
A state-mandated filing proving continuous coverage. Filed by your insurer with the Montana Motor Vehicle Division and required after serious violations.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Specialized coverage for drivers declined by standard insurers due to DUI, suspended license, or lapses exceeding 90 days.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you if hit by a driver without insurance. Not required in Montana but recommended given 8–10% uninsured driver rates.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair your vehicle after an accident, regardless of fault. Required by lenders and optional otherwise.
