The great state of Montana will require you to file an SR-22 in order to reinstate your license from violations such as:
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Failure to pay child support
- Multiple driving violations resulting in suspension
- Failure to stop and help at the scene of an accident
Is an SR22 just an insurance policy?
In fact the SR-22 is simply an additional item added to the auto policy. It is not a policy by itself and can be added or subtracted from most any auto insurance. The cost to add an SR22 is usually $25 to $50 depending on the company you choose.
Can I cancel my SR-22 insurance early?
If you are required to maintain the SR22 and you let your policy cancel or lapse prior to the end of the probation period the state will suspend your license again. If you are wanting to save money and switch companies the best option is to keep the policy in force until you have the new one started.
Do I need full coverage auto insurance for an SR-22 filing?
No, the SR-22 form is simply an add-on to your auto policy no matter if you have full coverage or just liability only. In fact you don't even need to own a car to file an SR-22. This type of insurance is called non-owners.
Montana Liability Insurance Requirements
The state of Montana requires liability insurance to protect other drivers in the event of an accident. The minimum limits are:
- $25k Per Person Bodily Injury
- $50k Per Accident Bodily Injury
- $10k Property Damage
While these limits are minimum they are rarely recommended levels of coverage. Ask your insurance agent what they recommend based on your financial position.
Suspended License Information and Requirements
Below is a chart of suspensions in Montana that will require an SR-22:
Violation Type | Conviction # - Suspension Length
- DUI w/BAC .08+ | 1st - 6 months, 2nd - 1 year
- Chemical Test Refusal | 1st - 6 months, 2nd - 1 year
- Under 21 years old - DUI w/BAC .02+ | 1st - 90 days, 2nd - 6 months
- DUI for commercial driver w/BAC .04+ | 1st - 1 year, 2nd - 3 years
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Montana
The following are illegal limits for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) while operating a vehicle in Montana:
- All drivers = .08% or higher
- All commercial drivers = .04% or higher
- Drivers under age 21 = .02% or higher
Refusal to Submit to Alcohol Testing
In Montana you are giving consent to a chemical test of your blood, breath or urine when you accept a driver's license. If you refuse to submit this test your license will be suspended for 6 months or up to 1 year if it is your second refusal.
Where can I get an Ignition Interlock Device?
A driver who has been convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) or with an alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or more may be restricted to operating a vehicle that is equipped with an ignition interlock device. The following companies are approved interlock vendors:
INTOXALOCK
10520 Hickman Road, Suite F
Des Moines, IA 50325
Phone: 1-833-210-8427
Smart Start, Inc.
4850 Plaza Drive
Irving, TX 75063-2317
Phone: 1-800-880-3394
#1 A LifeSafer of Montana – LifeSafer
1660 Jasper Street, Unit I
Aurora, CO 80011
Phone: 1-888-855-0630
Clean Start of Montana, LLC
P.O. Box 1332
Bozeman, MT 59771
Phone: 1-406-589-5463
Toll Free: 1-800-820-4637
