Updated April 2026
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
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Sources
- Montana Motor Vehicle Division — SR-22 and Financial Responsibility Requirements
- Montana Code Annotated — Title 61, Chapter 6: Financial Responsibility
- Montana Department of Insurance — Consumer Resources