Minimum Coverage Requirements in Montana
Montana requires minimum liability coverage of 25/50/25: $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 property damage. Drivers with DUI convictions, license suspensions for accumulating too many points, uninsured accidents, or repeat violations typically must file SR-22 proof of insurance with the Montana Motor Vehicle Division for 3 years. High-risk drivers often need coverage above state minimums to satisfy SR-22 requirements and secure affordable reinstatement.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Montana?
Montana high-risk insurance premiums vary widely based on violation type, prior driving history, and insurer. A first-time DUI typically raises rates 150–250% above standard premiums, while license suspensions or at-fault uninsured accidents increase rates 100–200%. Expect premiums to drop 20–30% annually during your SR-22 period if you maintain continuous coverage and avoid new violations.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type—DUI convictions typically carry the highest surcharges (200–300% increase), while at-fault accidents or license suspensions may increase rates 100–150%
- Time since violation—premiums typically decrease 20–30% annually during your SR-22 period if you maintain a clean record
- Location within Montana—Billings and Missoula urban premiums run 10–20% higher than rural counties due to higher accident frequency and repair costs
- Driving record prior to violation—a single DUI with an otherwise clean 5-year history qualifies for lower surcharges than a DUI combined with speeding tickets or prior suspensions
- Credit score—Montana insurers use credit-based insurance scores, which can increase high-risk premiums an additional 30–80% for drivers with poor credit
- Vehicle type—insuring a newer or high-value vehicle with full coverage SR-22 increases premiums 40–100% compared to minimum liability on an older vehicle
See how much your violation actually affects your rates
Not every carrier surcharges the same way. Compare quotes from carriers that rate violations differently.
Get Your Free QuoteCoverage Types
SR-22 Insurance
SR-22 is a certificate your insurer files with Montana proving you carry at least minimum liability coverage. Required for DUI convictions, suspensions, and uninsured accidents—any lapse resets the 3-year clock.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Coverage from insurers specializing in high-risk drivers. Typically the only option after a DUI or suspension when preferred carriers decline to renew or write new policies.
Liability Insurance
Covers injuries and property damage you cause to others. Montana's 25/50/25 minimums are low—serious accidents easily exceed these limits, especially on rural highways with higher fatality rates.
Full Coverage
Combines liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. Required by lenders if you're financing or leasing, and recommended if your vehicle value exceeds $5,000.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you if an uninsured or underinsured driver causes an accident. Not required in Montana, but approximately 9% of drivers lack insurance.
Collision Coverage
Pays to repair or replace your vehicle after an at-fault accident, regardless of who caused it. Sold with a deductible, typically $500–$1,000.
