Montana CDL replacement is a procedure that must be completed through the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) of the state Department of Justice (DOJ). Note that commercial drivers must apply for a DMV CDL replacement if they remain without a valid credential, regardless of the circumstances. Failure to replace CDL license credentials on time may lead to certain detrimental consequences, such as monetary fines and suspension penalties.

To successfully replace a stolen, damaged or lost CDL drivers license in MT, applicants will be required to furnish certain types of documents and information and pay the applicable fees. While the standard application method involves submitting the required items in person at a driver license exam station, commercial operators who are temporarily outside of the state can also replace their credentials by mail.

When do you need to get a duplicate CDL license in Montana?

Getting a duplicate CDL license is a mandatory step in various situations. Replacing a lost CDL driving license in Montana is the most common reason for applying for a replacement credential. However, you will also have to get a duplicate CDL if your original license was stolen, damaged or destroyed. Other less common situations that will require you to apply for a replacement CDL include changing your personal information or receiving a license with typographical errors.

Note: If your lost or damaged commercial license is within its last six months of validity, you may be able to renew it instead of replacing it.

Documents Required to Replace a CDL in Montana

To successfully replace a CDL license, you will be required to furnish certain documentation to prove your identity and eligibility to hold a commercial driving license. Note that the paperwork needed for a CDL replacement will not include the full set of documents required from first-time applicants. The following list outlines the standard documentation that may be needed to apply for a duplicate CDL in Montana:

  • The existing commercial driving license, if available
  • Two proofs of identity bearing your full name and birth date, such as:

Note: If you are unable to present two primary forms of identification, you can submit one primary and one secondary ID form.

  • Proof of a name and/or address change, if changing your name and/or address information
  • Certain CDL-specific paperwork, if required, such as a Medical Examiner’s Certificate

Note: Since commercial operators may need additional documents to replace a commercial drivers license, contact the state MVD before applying for a duplicate credential to get more information about the specific paperwork that may be required.

How to Replace a Montana CDL in Person

The standard CDL replacement method requires you to submit your application and fee payment at a local driver license station. The steps to replace your CDL license in person include, but may not be limited to, the following:

  1. Fill out any applicable request forms.
  2. Present proof of identification.
  3. Surrender the old commercial license, if available.
  4. Submit additional paperwork specific to your situation, if required.
  5. Pay the replacement fee.

Once the state MVD processes your CDL replacement application, it will issue you a duplicate credential with the same expiration date. You can get a replacement CDL credential with a renewed expiration date only if you renew your lost or damaged commercial license. To expedite the application process for a duplicate CDL license in MT, you can also schedule your office visit via the MVD Appointment Scheduling system.

How to Replace a Montana CDL by Mail

Replacing a damaged or lost CDL drivers license by mail is an option that is only available under certain limited circumstances. For example, you can submit a mail-in request for a replacement CDL license in Montana if you are currently living outside of the state on a temporary basis. To order a duplicate commercial license by mail, complete these steps:

  1. Obtain the Mail-in Replacement License (All Driver Licenses) (Form 21-2000).
  2. Fill out the form and enclose two proofs of identity and the fee payment in the form of a check or money order.
  3. Send the above item to the following address:
Motor Vehicle Division
ATTN: Mail-In DL
P.O. Box 201430
Helena, MT 59620-1430

After receiving your MT CDL replacement request, the state MVD will process it and mail you out a permanent replacement credential within two to four weeks at your out-of-state address. Note that altered and incomplete applications will be rejected.

CDL Replacement Fees in Montana

The last step when replacing a CDL license is paying the applicable replacement costs. Note that the current Montana CDL replacement fees may vary depending on whether you are replacing a standard or a REAL ID-compliant credential.

A sample of the standard license replacement costs is provided below:

  • $10.30 fee for a standard driver license replacement
  • $25.75 fee for a duplicate REAL ID license
  • A nominal fee when paying at a county treasurer’s office
Last updated on Friday, March 6 2020.