CDL Requirements in Montana
Everything you need to know about getting your Commercial Driver's License in Montana — costs, tests, training programs, and how to apply at the MT DMV.
Total Estimated Cost
$163 - $195
Minimum Age
18+ years
Renewal Period
8 years
Passing Score
80%
Montana CDL Cost Breakdown
Fees charged by the Montana DMV for CDL testing and issuance (training program costs are separate).
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application / Permit Fee | $20.44 |
| Knowledge Test Fee | $5 |
| Skills Test Fee | $80 |
| CDL Issuance Fee | $57.52 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $163 - $195 |
* Fees do not include DOT physical ($50-$150), training program tuition, or endorsement test fees. Third-party skills test providers may charge additional fees.
Montana CDL Requirements Checklist
You must meet all of the following requirements to obtain a CDL in Montana.
Minimum Age: 18 years old
Age 18 for intrastate (within Montana) driving. Must be 21 for interstate (crossing state lines).
Residency Requirement
Must be a Montana resident. Montana driver license required.
DOT Medical Card
Must pass a DOT physical exam by an FMCSA-certified medical examiner. The medical card is valid for up to 24 months. Cost: $50-$150.
ELDT Training Required
Since February 2022, all first-time CDL applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver Training from an FMCSA-registered training provider. Both classroom theory and behind-the-wheel training are required.
Background Check
Your driving record is checked through CDLIS and the National Driver Register. Hazmat endorsements require a separate TSA background check (~$125).
Valid MT Driver License
You must hold a valid Montana driver license before applying for a CDL. Out-of-state licenses must be transferred first.
Written Knowledge Tests
You must pass the following written tests at a Montana DMV office to obtain your Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP). The passing score in Montana is 80%.
General Knowledge
Air Brakes
Combination Vehicles
CDL Skills Test Components
After holding your CLP for at least 14 days and completing ELDT training, you can schedule the CDL skills test in Montana.
Pre-Trip Inspection
Walk-around inspection demonstrating knowledge of vehicle components, engine compartment, brakes, lights, tires, and coupling devices.
Basic Controls
Performed in a controlled area. Includes straight-line backing, offset backing (left/right), and parallel parking. Scored on pull-ups and final position.
Road Test
On-road driving test evaluating turns, lane changes, intersections, railroad crossings, highway driving, and general safe driving behaviors.
Available CDL Endorsements in Montana
Additional written tests are required for each endorsement. Endorsements expand the types of freight and vehicles you can legally operate.
Top CDL Schools in Montana
ELDT-registered training programs in Montana. Verify any school is listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry before enrolling.
| School | City | Tuition | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana CDL Training | Billings | $5,200 | 4 weeks |
| University of Montana CDL Program | Missoula | $3,800 | 6 weeks |
| Great Falls College MSU | Great Falls | $3,500 | 7 weeks |
* Tuition amounts are approximate and may vary. Contact each school directly for current pricing and financial aid options.
Montana-Specific CDL Notes
Montana MVD administers CDL tests at MVD offices and authorized exam stations. Montana has no state income tax, which increases CDL driver take-home pay. The state has unique weight and size regulations for agricultural exemptions and allows some of the widest loads in the Western states. Logging and mining freight are significant.
Restricted CDL available: Montana offers a restricted CDL for qualifying farm or specialty vehicle operations.
CDL FAQ for Montana
How much does a CDL cost in Montana?
Montana CDL fees total approximately $163-$195, including a $20.44 application fee, $5 knowledge test fee, $80 skills test fee, and $57.52 CDL issuance fee. The 8-year renewal period helps spread costs over time.
Does Montana have state income tax?
Montana eliminated its state income tax for most earners in recent years, which effectively increases CDL driver take-home pay compared to neighboring states with income taxes. This makes Montana an attractive state for owner-operators establishing residency.
What industries need CDL drivers in Montana?
Montana's key CDL industries include oil field services (Bakken formation), logging and lumber, ranching (livestock hauling), mining, and agricultural grain hauling. Tourism-related freight also picks up during summer months.
Does Montana offer agricultural CDL exemptions?
Yes, Montana offers restricted CDLs for farm vehicle operators and has unique weight exemptions for agricultural vehicles. These exemptions are important in Montana's ranching and grain farming communities.
Where can I take the CDL test in Montana?
CDL tests are available at Montana MVD offices in Billings, Missoula, Great Falls, Helena, and Kalispell. Due to the state's large geographic area, some rural areas require significant travel to reach a testing location.
CDL Requirements in Other States
CDL Training Guide
Classes, programs, costs, and step-by-step guide.
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