Auto Insurance Minimum Requirements
Montana requires all drivers to carry minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $20,000 for property damage — commonly written as 25/50/20. Montana is a tort (at-fault) state, which determines how fault and claims are handled after a collision. Uninsured motorist coverage is not required by law but is strongly recommended. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is not required.
Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist
Must be offered; can be declined in writing by the policy applicant.
SR-22 Filings
Required for 3 years following severe structural operating convictions or repeated insurance failure tracking.
Alternatives to Insurance
An active cash deposit or corporate surety bond of $70,000 filed with the state treasurer.
Fine
Up to $500
License / Registration
Suspension: Yes
SR-22 Required After
Yes
What is the minimum car insurance required in Montana?
Montana requires minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $20,000 for property damage. This is written as 25/50/20 coverage.
Is Montana a no-fault state?
No, Montana is a tort (at-fault) state. The driver responsible for the accident is liable for damages, and claims are filed against their insurance.
Is uninsured motorist coverage required in Montana?
Uninsured motorist coverage is not required in Montana, but it is strongly recommended given the proportion of uninsured drivers nationwide.
What happens if I drive without insurance in Montana?
Driving without insurance in Montana can result in fines of Up to $500 and license/registration suspension. An SR-22 certificate is typically required to reinstate your driving privileges.
Do I need an SR-22 in Montana?
SR-22 filings are used in Montana for high-risk drivers following events like DUI convictions, serious violations, or driving without insurance. An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility filed by your insurer — it is not a type of insurance policy. Required for 3 years following severe structural operating convictions or repeated insurance failure tracking.
What does 25/50/20 mean in Montana?
These numbers represent your liability limits: $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $20,000 for property damage. These are the legal minimums — purchasing higher limits provides greater financial protection.
Official Source
Montana Department of Justice Motor Vehicle Division
Last verified: 2026-05-27 · Always confirm with official state sources before making coverage decisions.