Short answer: Montana requires continuous liability coverage of $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident and $20,000 for property damage. Uninsured motorist coverage comes with the policy unless the named insured rejects it. A first uninsured offense costs $250 to $500. Repeat offenses mean surrendering your plates and registration and, eventually, your driver's license.
The requirement
MCA §61-6-103 sets the limits, and the Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance (CSI) lists them the same way:
| Liability coverage | Minimum |
|---|---|
| Bodily injury, per person | $25,000 |
| Bodily injury, per accident | $50,000 |
| Property damage | $20,000 |
Under MCA §61-6-301, the owner of any vehicle registered and driven in Montana must keep that coverage in place continuously, and it's unlawful to drive on roads open to the public without it. The same section allows a policy to exclude a named family member. CSI notes some companies exclude a household driver with a poor record by name.
Proof in the vehicle
MCA §61-6-302 requires every owner or operator to carry an insurance card or an electronic document from the insurer on a device. Commercial and self-insured fleet cards must say "commercially insured" or "fleet." You must show it on demand to a judge, a peace officer, a highway patrol officer, or a department inspector.
Penalties climb with each conviction
MCA §61-6-304 builds an escalating ladder:
| Conviction | Consequence |
|---|---|
| First | Fine of $250 to $500 |
| Second | $350 fine, plus surrender of the vehicle's registration receipt and license plates |
| Third or later | $500 fine, up to 10 days in jail, or both, plus plate and registration surrender |
| Fourth or later | Surrender of the offender's driver's license as well |
After a second conviction, the department can issue a restricted registration limited to employment use during a 90-day period; after a third, 180 days. Full registration returns only with proof of insurance and replacement fees.
Uninsured motorist coverage
Under MCA §33-23-201, a Montana policy must include uninsured motorist coverage at the 25/50 limits. The named insured can reject it, and once rejected it needn't be added to renewals unless you ask in writing. CSI's plain-language version: unless you sign a form saying you don't want it, your agent is required by law to provide it.
Fault: read the statute carefully
MCA §27-1-702 says contributory negligence doesn't bar recovery if it was not greater than the negligence of the person, or combined negligence of all persons, you're claiming against. Your damages drop by your percentage. CSI calls this a 51% rule. Its example: if you're 20% at fault and the other driver 80%, expect the other insurer to offer about 80% of your damages. If you disagree with an insurer's fault decision, CSI accepts complaints, but only a court can decide comparative negligence.
When your car is totaled
CSI explains how total losses usually work:
- Most policies pay actual cash value, the market value just before the accident.
- Insurers typically run a market survey of comparable vehicles, same make and model, similar mileage and options, and may widen the area if needed.
- They must give you copies of the information used to set the value.
- NADA is the only book value an insurer may use, and only if you and the company both agree. Insurers needn't recognize other guides.
Bring your own comparable listings. CSI says it may come down to negotiation, and CSI itself can't set a vehicle's value.
Other CSI notes worth knowing
- Cancellation notice: at least 10 days for nonpayment, 45 days for cancellation or nonrenewal for other reasons, sent to your last known address.
- Licensed teens in your household can be rated even if they don't drive your cars.
- Your record: premiums reflect three years of driving history for personal auto.
- "Insurance after the fact," buying coverage after a loss to cover it, is insurance fraud in Montana.
Bottom line
Montana's minimum is 25/50/20, UM stays unless you sign it away, and penalties escalate quickly. Compare with our car insurance minimums by state guide.
Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Montana and auto insurance.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum car insurance in Montana?
$25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $20,000 for property damage.
What is the fine for driving without insurance in Montana?
$250 to $500 for a first conviction. A second brings a $350 fine and surrender of plates and registration.
Is uninsured motorist coverage required in Montana?
It must be included unless the named insured rejects it, according to MCA §33-23-201.
How is a totaled car valued in Montana?
Usually at actual cash value through a market survey. NADA is the only book value allowed, and only if both sides agree.
How much notice must a Montana insurer give before canceling?
At least 10 days for nonpayment and 45 days for other reasons.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.