reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 2. Certificates of Title › 61-3-212. Retitling salvage vehicles -- penalty

61-3-212. Retitling salvage vehicles -- penalty.
(1) Prior to operating a salvage vehicle on the roads and highways of this state, the owner shall present the motor vehicle and the salvage certificate, if one has been issued, or the certificate of title, the appropriate receipts or bills of sale establishing ownership, and the source of component parts used to rebuild the motor vehicle to a department employee or designated peace officer for inspection, as provided in 61-3-223. An owner may obtain a temporary registration permit under 61-3-224 for the purpose of moving a salvage vehicle to and from the designated inspection site.
(2) (a) The inspector shall inspect the motor vehicle to verify the identity of the motor vehicle.
(b) The inspector shall verify that the component parts used to rebuild the motor vehicle are evidenced by traceable receipts or bills of sale and that there are no indications that the motor vehicle or any of its parts are stolen. Documentation provided by the owner or employee of a wrecking facility licensed under the provisions of Title 75, chapter 10, part 5, is prima facie evidence of the facts stated in the documentation.
(3) Following inspection and prior to operating the motor vehicle on the roads and highways of this state, the owner shall apply for a new certificate of title by submitting the application, the salvage certificate, receipts or bills of sale, and a copy of the inspection report to the department.
(4) Upon receipt of the application, required documentation, and payment of the fee required in 61-3-203, the department shall issue a new certificate of title with the words "rebuilt salvage" on the face of the certificate of title.
(5) A person failing to comply with the provisions of this part is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be fined an amount not to exceed $500. The salvage vehicle purchaser shall produce the salvage certificate upon request of a public official legally entitled to request the certificate. A person may not operate or use a salvage vehicle on the roads or highways of this state except when a temporary registration permit has been issued as provided in subsection (1).
History: En. Sec. 4, Ch. 725, L. 1991; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 188, L. 1995; amd. Sec. 59, Ch. 477, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 55, Ch. 542, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 43, Ch. 596, L. 2005.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 2. Certificates of Title › 61-3-213. Certificate of title -- custom vehicle, street rod, kit vehicle, or specially constructed vehicle

61-3-213. Certificate of title -- custom vehicle, street rod, kit vehicle, or specially constructed vehicle.
(1) When a person applies for a certificate of title for a custom vehicle or street rod and a certificate of title is issued or an electronic record of title is created pursuant to this chapter, the certificate of title or electronic record of title must provide:
(a) the model year and year of manufacture of the body of the vehicle that the custom vehicle or street rod resembles as the model year and year of manufacture for the custom vehicle or street rod;
(b) a vehicle description of the custom vehicle or street rod if the vehicle is a custom vehicle built to resemble a vehicle manufactured after 1948 and at least 25 years before the current calendar year or a street rod built to resemble a vehicle manufactured before 1949; and
(c) if there is no manufacturer's certificate of origin for the custom vehicle or street rod, the vehicle identification number from the chassis or frame of the custom vehicle or street rod or a state-assigned vehicle identification number.
(2) When a person applies for a certificate of title for a kit vehicle, excluding a kit vehicle that qualifies as a custom vehicle or street rod, and a certificate of title is issued or an electronic record of title is created pursuant to this chapter, the certificate of title or electronic record of title must list:
(a) the model year and year of manufacture as contained on the manufacturer's certificate of origin for the kit vehicle or, if a manufacturer's certificate of origin does not exist, the calendar year in which application for title was made;
(b) a vehicle description of the kit vehicle; and
(c) in the absence of a manufacturer's certificate of origin for the kit vehicle, the vehicle identification number from the chassis or frame of the donor vehicle or a state-assigned vehicle identification number.
(3) When a person applies for a certificate of title for a specially constructed vehicle and a certificate of title is issued or an electronic record of title is created pursuant to this chapter, the certificate of title or electronic record of title must list:
(a) the model year and year of manufacture as the calendar year in which application for title was made;
(b) a vehicle description, as determined by the department, of the assembled or custom-built vehicle; and
(c) the vehicle identification number, if any, from the chassis or frame of the vehicle or a state-assigned vehicle identification number.
(4) Prior to assignment of a state-assigned vehicle identification number or to confirm a vehicle identification number from the chassis or frame of a custom vehicle, street rod, or specially constructed vehicle, the department may require a vehicle inspection.
History: En. Sec. 2, Ch. 458, L. 2005.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 2. Certificates of Title › 61-3-214. Certificate of title -- custom-built motorcycle

61-3-214. Certificate of title -- custom-built motorcycle.
(1) When a person applies for a certificate of title for a custom-built motorcycle and a certificate of title or an electronic record of title is created pursuant to this chapter, the certificate of title or electronic record of title must include:
(a) the make, style, year of manufacture, serial number or identification number of the motorcycle's engine, and year of manufacture for the motorcycle, which is the year that the engine was manufactured or the year that the engine was manufactured to resemble; and
(b) the make and vehicle identification number for the frame of the motorcycle.
(2) If the application for a certificate of title is not accompanied by a previously issued certificate of title that includes the required information or a certificate from the manufacturer of the motorcycle's engine or frame, the department may require a vehicle inspection to confirm the make, year of manufacture, and serial or identification number of the motorcycle's engine, the frame, or both, and, if applicable, to assign a special identification number under 61-3-107.
History: En. Sec. 1, Ch. 329, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 2. Certificates of Title › 61-3-218. Certificate of title -- issuance -- delivery

61-3-218. Certificate of title -- issuance -- delivery.
(1) Except as provided in subsection (2), if a person who applied for a certificate of title also requested the issuance of the certificate of title as provided in 61-3-216(2)(f)(i), upon receipt of the application and all supporting documents and after an examination and determination that the application is complete and regular, the department shall issue a certificate of title of the motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, pole trailer, camper, motorboat, personal watercraft, sailboat, or snowmobile and shall mail the certificate of title to the owner.
(2) If a person to whom a motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, pole trailer, camper, motorboat, personal watercraft, sailboat, or snowmobile was transferred has not satisfied the titling and registration provisions of this chapter or, if applicable, the registration provisions of Title 23, chapter 2, part 5 or 6, within the 40-day period provided in 61-3-220(3) and the secured party or lienholder pays the title fee required in 61-3-203, the department may mail a certificate of title to the secured party or lienholder upon request of the secured party or lienholder.
(3) (a) A motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, pole trailer, camper, motorboat, personal watercraft, sailboat, or snowmobile owner who requested the delayed issuance of a certificate of title under 61-3-216(2)(f)(ii), in the initial application for a certificate of title, may submit a request for the issuance of the certificate of title to the department, its authorized agent, or a county treasurer in a manner prescribed by the department. Upon receipt, the department shall issue a certificate of title for the motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, pole trailer, camper, motorboat, personal watercraft, sailboat, or snowmobile and mail the certificate of title to the owner.
(b) A title fee may not be demanded from the owner or collected by the department, its authorized agent, or a county treasurer for a certificate of title requested or issued under subsection (3)(a).
History: En. Sec. 7, Ch. 477, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 58, Ch. 542, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 45, Ch. 596, L. 2005.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 2. Certificates of Title › 61-3-219. Refusal to issue certificate of title

61-3-219. Refusal to issue certificate of title.
The department may refuse to issue a certificate of title if any required fee is not paid or if the department has reasonable grounds to believe that:
(1) the applicant is not the owner of the motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, pole trailer, camper, motorboat, personal watercraft, sailboat, or snowmobile;
(2) the application contains a false or fraudulent statement;
(3) the applicant failed to furnish any information or document required by the department; or
(4) based on the check performed under 61-3-217(2), the motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, pole trailer, camper, motorboat, personal watercraft, sailboat, or snowmobile has been reported as stolen.
History: En. Sec. 8, Ch. 477, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 59, Ch. 542, L. 2005.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 2. Certificates of Title › 61-3-221. Involuntary transfer

61-3-221. Involuntary transfer.
(1) (a) An involuntary transfer of title to or any interest in a motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, pole trailer, camper, motorboat, personal watercraft, sailboat, or snowmobile may occur by operation of law through inheritance, devise, bequest, order in bankruptcy or insolvency, execution sale, or repossession upon default in the performance of the terms of a lease, executory sales contract, or security agreement or in any other manner other than by voluntary act of the person whose title or interest is transferred. Upon the involuntary transfer, the executor, administrator, receiver, trustee, sheriff, secured party, or other representative or successor in interest of the person whose interest is transferred shall send to the department:
(i) an application for a certificate of title; and
(ii) a verified or certified statement of the transfer of interest or a transfer statement, as defined in 30-9A-619.
(b) The statement of transfer of interest must state the reason for the involuntary transfer, the interest transferred, the name of the person to whom the interest is to be transferred, the process or procedure creating the transfer, and other information requested by the department. A transfer statement submitted under this section must meet the requirements of 30-9A-619. Evidence and instruments that are required by law in order to effect a transfer of legal or equitable title to or an interest in chattels must be submitted with the statement.
(c) Except as provided in subsection (2), if the department determines that the transfer is regular and that all legal requirements have been complied with, the department shall send notice of the intended transfer to the owner, conditional sales vendor, lessor, mortgagee, and other lienholder, as shown in the department's records. Deposit in the U.S. mail of the notice, postage prepaid, addressed to the person at the respective address shown in the department's records satisfies the notice required by this section. Not less than 5 days after sending the notice, the department shall issue a new certificate of title to the transferee.
(2) (a) Except as provided in subsection (2)(b), if an interest in a motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, pole trailer, camper, motorboat, personal watercraft, sailboat, or snowmobile that is not registered in this state is involuntarily transferred to a person in this state, the person to whom the interest is transferred shall follow the procedure provided in subsection (1).
(b) In lieu of the statement required in subsection (1), the department may accept an affidavit of repossession as executed by the person seeking the involuntary transfer.
(3) The department is not required to send notice for a transfer of interest occurring under subsection (2).
History: En. Sec. 10, Ch. 477, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 61, Ch. 542, L. 2005.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 2. Certificates of Title › 61-3-222. Surviving spouse or heir -- small estates

61-3-222. Surviving spouse or heir -- small estates.
(1) Subject to the requirements of Title 72, chapter 3, part 11, the surviving spouse or other heir may secure transfer of a decedent's ownership interests in one or more motor vehicles, trailers, semitrailers, pole trailers, campers, motorboats, personal watercraft, sailboats, or snowmobiles for which a certificate of title was issued under this chapter if:
(a) the value of the entire estate, including any vehicles, vessels, or snowmobiles for which transfer of ownership is sought, less liens and encumbrances, does not exceed the limit set forth in 72-3-1101;
(b) the decedent did not leave other property that requires the procuring of letters of administration or letters testamentary; and
(c) the decedent did not by execution of a will otherwise bequeath the property.
(2) The person seeking transfer of the decedent's interests under this section shall file an affidavit with the department setting forth the fact of survivorship, the name and address of any other heirs, and any other facts determined necessary to entitle the person to the transfer.
(3) If the department determines that the transfer is regular and that all legal requirements have been met, the department shall issue a certificate of title, subject to any security interests shown by the department's records, to the surviving spouse or other heir.
History: En. Sec. 11, Ch. 477, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 62, Ch. 542, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 22, Ch. 329, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 2. Certificates of Title › 61-3-223. Salvage vehicles

61-3-223. Salvage vehicles.
(1) A salvage vehicle for which a certificate of title is sought must be inspected for the vehicle identification number to authenticate the identity of the motor vehicle before an electronic record of title can be created or a certificate of title can be issued. The inspection does not attest to the roadworthiness or safety condition of the motor vehicle and must be performed by an authorized employee or an authorized agent of the department or by a peace officer designated by the department.
(2) The department may contract with a person or entity for use of a facility as a regional inspection site for salvage vehicles.
(3) The department shall collect an inspection fee of $18.50 from the person requesting the inspection for each salvage vehicle inspected. The fee collected under this section must be deposited in the state general fund.
(4) (a) A person authorized to inspect salvage vehicles may seize and hold a vehicle:
(i) if the person has probable cause to believe that the motor vehicle has been stolen;
(ii) on which a motor number or vehicle identification number has been defaced, altered, removed, covered, destroyed, or obliterated; or
(iii) that has a vehicle identification number that does not conform with the vehicle identification number on the certificate of title.
(b) A seized motor vehicle must be held until the identity of the motor vehicle is established and arrangements are made for its lawful disposition. A person authorized to inspect salvage vehicles may use any means necessary to identify a motor vehicle by its vehicle identification number or numbers.
(5) The department may not create an electronic record of title or issue a certificate of title for a salvage vehicle until the identity of the motor vehicle is established.
(6) The department may adopt rules for the inspection of salvage vehicles.
History: En. Sec. 12, Ch. 477, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 63, Ch. 542, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 41, L. 2009.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 2. Certificates of Title › 61-3-225. Motor vehicle wrecking facility quarterly reports

61-3-225. Motor vehicle wrecking facility quarterly reports.
Quarterly, the owner or operator of a motor vehicle wrecking facility, as defined in 75-10-501, shall deliver to the department or an authorized agent, on a form approved by the department, a list of all junk vehicles, as defined in 75-10-501, received by the owner or operator of the motor vehicle wrecking facility during the quarter, stating the year, make, and complete identification number of each vehicle. If the owner or operator of a motor vehicle wrecking facility received a certificate of title when the owner or operator of the facility received a junk vehicle on the list, that certificate of title must accompany the list. The department shall issue a receipt for the certificate of title if requested by the owner or operator of the facility, and the receipt may serve as an instrument for reclaiming the certificate of title if the vehicle is rebuilt.
History: En. Sec. 5, Ch. 53, L. 2007; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 196, L. 2013.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 2. Certificates of Title › 61-3-227. Replacement certificate of title -- data removed by department -- application requirements

61-3-227. Replacement certificate of title -- data removed by department -- application requirements.
(1) Vehicles removed from the department's records because of the department's data retention procedures may be reentered into the system at the request of the last owner of record. The department may issue a certificate of title if the applicant complies with the requirements of subsection (2).
(2) The applicant shall submit an affidavit in a form prescribed by the department. The affidavit must accompany the application for a replacement certificate of title provided for in 61-3-204 and is subject to the fees within that section. The affidavit must also include the last title or registration issued to the owner.
History: En. Sec. 1, Ch. 397, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-302. Residents operating motor vehicles under licenses issued by any state other than Montana forbidden -- vehicles exempt from registration -- exceptions

61-3-302. Residents operating motor vehicles under licenses issued by any state other than Montana forbidden -- vehicles exempt from registration -- exceptions.
(1) (a) A resident of the state of Montana who owns a motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer may not operate the motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer with license plates issued by any other state than Montana.
(b) (i) A person who has resided in Montana for more than 60 consecutive days is considered to be a resident for the purpose of vehicle titling and registration laws, and a motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer owned by the person must be titled and registered under the laws of Montana prior to operation in this state after the 60-day period.
(ii) A person serving or retired from serving aboard the USS Montana is considered, at the election of the person, a resident for the purpose of motor vehicle titling and registration laws and may apply for a USS Montana specialty license plate pursuant to 61-3-479(1)(a)(ii). Residency is not conferred for any other purpose.
(2) A motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer driven or moved upon a highway in this state and owned by a nonresident of this state is exempt from registration under this chapter if:
(a) the vehicle is properly registered in and displays valid license plates of the jurisdiction in which the nonresident owner resides; and
(b) (i) the vehicle is not used for the transportation of persons or property for hire, compensation, or profit;
(ii) the nonresident owner is not employed or engaged in a commercial or business enterprise in this state; or
(iii) the vehicle is used for the exclusive purpose of filming motion pictures or television commercials and does not remain in the state for a period in excess of 180 consecutive days in a calendar year.
(3) A motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer that is owned by a manufacturer, a dealer, a wholesaler, or an auto auction and that is held for sale is exempt from registration under this part even though the motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer is incidentally moved on the highway and is used for purposes of testing or demonstration or is used by a manufacturer solely for testing.
(4) A junk vehicle, as defined in Title 75, chapter 10, part 5, being driven to an auto wrecking graveyard for disposal is exempt from the provisions of this chapter.
History: En. Subd. 8, Sec. 1, Ch. 158, L. 1933; re-en. Sec. 1759.6, R.C.M. 1935; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 195, L. 1953; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 247, L. 1957; R.C.M. 1947, 53-121; amd. Sec. 66, Ch. 542, L. 2005; amd. Secs. 49, 140, Ch. 596, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 663, L. 2023.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-304. Repealed

61-3-304. Repealed.
Sec. 16, Ch. 724, L. 1991.
History: En. Sec. 4, Ch. 158, L. 1931; amd. Sec. 5, Ch. 158, L. 1933; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 13, Ex. L. 1933; re-en. Sec. 1755.2, R.C.M. 1935; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 88, L. 1943; R.C.M. 1947, 53-103; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 503, L. 1985.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-305. Repealed

61-3-305. Repealed.
Sec. 81, Ch. 477, L. 2003.
History: En. Sec. 2, Ch. 75, L. 1917; re-en. Sec. 1756, R.C.M. 1921; re-en. Sec. 1756, R.C.M. 1935; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 88, L. 1943; R.C.M. 1947, 53-105; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 503, L. 1985; amd. Sec. 7, Ch. 724, L. 1991.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-312. Renewal of registration -- exceptions -- grace period

61-3-312. Renewal of registration -- exceptions -- grace period.
(1) Except as provided in 61-3-313 and 61-3-721, the registration of a motor vehicle under this chapter must be renewed on or before the last day of the month of the motor vehicle's registration period following the expiration of the motor vehicle's registration.
(2) A person may renew a motor vehicle's registration by submitting full payment for the fees or taxes required under 61-3-303 and 61-3-321(13) to the department, an authorized agent, or a county treasurer in any county of this state.
(3) The department, an authorized agent, or a county treasurer shall use the online motor vehicle liability insurance verification system provided in 61-6-157 to verify proof of compliance with 61-6-301.
(4) The registration period originally assigned under 61-3-311 must be retained and the duration of the renewed registration is determined in accordance with 61-3-311. A registration receipt is valid for the registration period for which it is issued.
(5) The owner of a motor vehicle subject to registration renewal under the provisions of this section is considered to have renewed the motor vehicle's registration in a timely manner if the owner submits full payment for the required fees or taxes, as prescribed in the mail renewal notice from the department, to the department, an authorized agent, or a county treasurer on or before the last day of the month of the motor vehicle's registration period.
(6) The department, an authorized agent, or a county treasurer may not renew the registration of a motor vehicle for which ownership has been transferred and that was originally registered without being titled under the provisions of 61-3-303(4)(b) unless:
(a) the previously issued certificate of title has been surrendered to the department, an authorized agent, or the county treasurer and the process for issuing a certificate of title has been completed; or
(b) the person to whom ownership of the motor vehicle has been transferred presents an affidavit and bond in support of the application for a certificate of title as permitted in 61-3-208.
History: En. Subd. 2, Sec. 2, Ch. 159, L. 1933; re-en. Sec. 1758.1, R.C.M. 1935; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 244, L. 1955; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 146, L. 1957; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 100, L. 1959; amd. Sec. 25, Ch. 121, L. 1965; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 116, L. 1969; amd. Sec. 8, Ch. 127, L. 1969; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 138, L. 1971; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 214, L. 1971; amd. Sec. 11, Ch. 74, L. 1975; R.C.M. 1947, 53-108(part); amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 146, L. 1989; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 42, L. 1995; amd. Sec. 62, Ch. 477, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 30, Ch. 592, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 69, Ch. 542, L. 2005; amd. Secs. 52, 144, Ch. 596, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 9, Ch. 413, L. 2009; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 73, L. 2011; amd. Sec. 8, Ch. 209, L. 2011; amd. Sec. 5, Ch. 247, L. 2011; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 142, L. 2013; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 335, L. 2019; amd. Sec. 9, Ch. 389, L. 2021.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-313. Motor vehicles exempt from registration renewal

61-3-313. Motor vehicles exempt from registration renewal.
(1) The following motor vehicles are exempt from the registration renewal requirements of 61-3-312:
(a) motor vehicles owned or leased and operated by the government of the United States or by the state of Montana or a political subdivision of the state;
(b) motor vehicles registered as part of a fleet under 61-3-318; and
(c) apportionable motor vehicles registered as part of a fleet, as defined in 61-3-712, that is subject to the provisions of 61-3-711 through 61-3-733.
(2) Unless a transfer of ownership occurs, a travel trailer, trailer, semitrailer, pole trailer, motorcycle, or quadricycle, including a motorcycle or quadricycle registered only for off-highway use under Title 23, chapter 2, part 8, is permanently registered.
History: En. 53-154 by Sec. 1, Ch. 74, L. 1975; R.C.M. 1947, 53-154; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 82, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 17, Ch. 516, L. 1985; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 517, L. 1989; amd. Sec. 17, Ch. 724, L. 1991; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 209, L. 1993; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 42, L. 1995; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 88, L. 1995; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 393, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 10, Ch. 399, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 31, Ch. 592, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 70, Ch. 542, L. 2005; amd. Secs. 53, 145, Ch. 596, L. 2005.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-314. Registration period

61-3-314. Registration period.
For the purposes of this chapter, there are 12 registration periods to which a motor vehicle may be assigned. Each registration period commences on the first day of a calendar month. The periods are:
(1) January 1 through January 31
1st period
(2) February 1 through February 28/29
2nd period
(3) March 1 through March 31
3rd period
(4) April 1 through April 30
4th period
(5) May 1 through May 31
5th period
(6) June 1 through June 30
6th period
(7) July 1 through July 31
7th period
(8) August 1 through August 31
8th period
(9) September 1 through September 30
9th period
(10) October 1 through October 31
10th period
(11) November 1 through November 30
11th period
(12) December 1 through December 31
12th period
History: En. 53-155, 53-156 by Secs. 2, 3, Ch. 74, L. 1975; R.C.M. 1947; 53-155, 53-156; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 337, L. 1991; amd. Sec. 5, Ch. 604, L. 1991; amd. Sec. 25, Ch. 515, L. 1999; amd. Sec. 71, Ch. 542, L. 2005; amd. Secs. 54, 146, Ch. 596, L. 2005.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-315. Repealed

61-3-315. Repealed.
Sec. 26, Ch. 335, L. 2019.
History: En. 53-157 by Sec. 4, Ch. 74, L. 1975; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 183, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 53-157; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 503, L. 1985; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 64, L. 1989; amd. Sec. 26, Ch. 515, L. 1999; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 42, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 72, Ch. 542, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 55, Ch. 596, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 10, Ch. 413, L. 2009.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-316. New registrations

61-3-316. New registrations.
Except as provided in 61-3-311, a motor vehicle that is registered for the first time in this state must be assigned a registration period corresponding to when the motor vehicle is first registered in this state. Except as permitted in 61-3-318 or 61-3-324, the registration period for a motor vehicle must remain the same from year to year.
History: En. 53-158 by Sec. 5, Ch. 74, L. 1975; R.C.M. 1947, 53-158(part); amd. Sec. 27, Ch. 515, L. 1999; amd. Sec. 73, Ch. 542, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 56, Ch. 596, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 335, L. 2019.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-317. New registration required for transferred motor vehicle -- grace period -- penalty -- display of proof of purchase

61-3-317. New registration required for transferred motor vehicle -- grace period -- penalty -- display of proof of purchase.
(1) The new owner of a transferred motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer has a grace period of 40 calendar days from the date of purchase to make application for a certificate of title and pay the registration fees, fees in lieu of tax and other fees required by this chapter, and local option taxes, if applicable. However, the motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer may not be operated upon the streets and highways of this state during this period unless a temporary registration permit has been issued for and is properly displayed on the motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer as permitted by 61-3-224.
(2) If the motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer was not purchased from a licensed motor vehicle dealer as provided in this chapter, it is not a violation of this chapter or any other law for the purchaser to operate the motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer upon the streets and highways of this state without a current registration receipt or registration decal during the period allowed under 61-1-101(81)(b) if at all times during that period a temporary registration permit issued under 61-3-224 is properly displayed.
History: En. Sec. 3, Ch. 127, L. 1969; amd. Sec. 7, Ch. 138, L. 1971; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 187, L. 1974; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 243, L. 1977; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 399, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 53-147; amd. Sec. 32, Ch. 421, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 8, Ch. 712, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 24, Ch. 614, L. 1981; amd. Sec. 13, Ch. 503, L. 1985; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 529, L. 1985; amd. Sec. 28, Ch. 515, L. 1999; amd. Sec. 17, Ch. 13, Sp. L. August 2002; amd. Sec. 63, Ch. 477, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 32, Ch. 592, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 74, Ch. 542, L. 2005; amd. Secs. 57, 147, Ch. 596, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 435, L. 2017; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 309, L. 2019.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-318. Fleet registration period

61-3-318. Fleet registration period.
(1) (a) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this title regarding the registration of motor vehicles, a person owning or leasing a fleet may register its fleet for a 6-month or a 9-month period, commencing from the date of original registration.
(b) A motor vehicle remaining in the fleet at the end of a 6-month or a 9-month period must be reregistered for a minimum of 12 months.
(2) As used in this section, "fleet" means automobiles or trucks having a rated capacity of three-quarters of a ton or less that are rented or offered for rental without drivers and that are designated by a rental owner as a rental fleet in a quantity set by the department pursuant to 61-14-101.
History: En. Sec. 1, Ch. 517, L. 1989; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 344, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 75, Ch. 542, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 407, L. 2021.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-319. Registration of custom-built motorcycle -- exemptions

61-3-319. Registration of custom-built motorcycle -- exemptions.
(1) Upon original registration of a custom-built motorcycle, the owner of the custom-built motorcycle shall:
(a) pay the fees required in 61-3-321, plus an additional $10 fee, to be deposited in the state general fund;
(b) certify, in writing, that the motorcycle is:
(i) not used for general transportation purposes; and
(ii) is equipped as required by the state law in effect in the year of manufacture of the motorcycle, as determined under 61-3-214.
(2) A custom-built motorcycle registered under this section is exempt from vehicle equipment requirements under chapter 9 of this title unless the equipment was required under state law in the year of manufacture of the motorcycle, as listed on the registration receipt for the motorcycle and determined under 61-3-214.
History: En. Sec. 2, Ch. 329, L. 2007.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-322. Registration receipts -- issuance

61-3-322. Registration receipts -- issuance.
(1) Upon completion of the original registration or registration renewal process, the department, an authorized agent, or a county treasurer shall issue a registration receipt to the owner of the motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer.
(2) The registration receipt must contain the name and address of the owner of the motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer, the license plate number assigned to the motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer, sufficient information to identify the registered motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer and determine its registration date and period of registration, and any additional information required by rule.
(3) The registration receipt must at all times be carried in the motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer to which it refers or must be carried by the person driving or in control of the motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer, who shall display it upon demand of a peace officer or any officer or employee of the department or the department of transportation.
History: (1) thru (3)En. Sec. 4, Ch. 75, L. 1917; re-en. Sec. 1758, R.C.M. 1921; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 159, L. 1933; re-en. Sec. 1758, R.C.M. 1935; amd. Sec. 5, Ch. 72, L. 1937; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 148, L. 1943; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 63, L. 1945; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 115, L. 1953; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 200, L. 1955; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 139, L. 1961; amd. Sec. 7, Ch. 127, L. 1969; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 179, L. 1971; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 104, L. 1975; Sec. 53-107, R.C.M. 1947; (4), (5)En. Subd. 3, Sec. 1, Ch. 158, L. 1933; re-en. Sec. 1759.2, R.C.M. 1935; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 72, L. 1937; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 199, L. 1955; Sec. 53-116, R.C.M. 1947; R.C.M. 1947, 53-107(part), 53-116(part); amd. Sec. 35, Ch. 421, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 5, Ch. 502, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 9, Ch. 712, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 25, Ch. 614, L. 1981; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 503, L. 1985; amd. Sec. 5, Ch. 363, L. 1989; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 512, L. 1991; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 365, L. 1993; amd. Sec. 64, Ch. 477, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 77, Ch. 542, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 59, Ch. 596, L. 2005.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-323. Definitions

61-3-323. Definitions.
As used in 61-3-323 through 61-3-325, unless the context requires otherwise, the following definitions apply:
(1) "Domicile" means the county in which a motor vehicle is most frequently used, dispatched, or controlled.
(2) "Fleet" means motor vehicles, trailers, semitrailers, or pole trailers owned or leased by a person operating the motor vehicles, trailers, semitrailers, or pole trailers in this state in a quantity set by the department pursuant to 61-14-101.
History: En. Sec. 1, Ch. 61, L. 1989; amd. Sec. 78, Ch. 542, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 407, L. 2021.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-324. Fleet registration -- application -- additions to and deletions from fleet

61-3-324. Fleet registration -- application -- additions to and deletions from fleet.
(1) A person owning or leasing a fleet may register the fleet annually through the department in lieu of registering each motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer in its domicile.
(2) The fleet owner or lessor and the department may enter into an agreement to change the registration period for the fleet in a manner that comports with the requirements of 61-3-311(3).
(3) A motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer may be added to the fleet at any time during the registration period. If a certificate of title for a vehicle to be added to the fleet has not been issued by the department, the fleet owner or lessor may submit the application for certificate of title directly to the department.
(4) A motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer may be removed from a fleet if the fleet owner or lessor notifies the department of its removal. Upon receipt of the notice, the department shall cancel the vehicle's registration.
History: En. Sec. 2, Ch. 61, L. 1989; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 512, L. 1991; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 22, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 79, Ch. 542, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 60, Ch. 596, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 407, L. 2021.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-325. Fleet registration -- license plates

61-3-325. Fleet registration -- license plates.
(1) The department or an authorized agent shall compute fees and taxes due on each motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer in the fleet as provided in parts 3 and 5 of this chapter, based on its domicile.
(2) The department may issue a separate series of license plates that do not require a registration decal to be affixed. Fleet series license plates may have the same background as standard license plates issued under 61-3-332 but may have a separate numbering system determined by the department pursuant to 61-14-101. At the request of the fleet owner or lessor and upon payment of all applicable fees, a license plate type other than the fleet plate may be issued to a fleet vehicle.
History: En. Sec. 3, Ch. 61, L. 1989; amd. Sec. 14, Ch. 398, L. 1989; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 512, L. 1991; amd. Sec. 164, Ch. 574, L. 2001; amd. Sec. 2, Ch. 22, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 80, Ch. 542, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 61, Ch. 596, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 407, L. 2021.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-331. Assignment of license plates

61-3-331. Assignment of license plates.
The county treasurer or an authorized agent shall, at the time of issuing a registration receipt under 61-3-322, assign the motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer a distinctive license plate number and, unless the license plates must be specially ordered from the department, deliver to the applicant, depending on the type of motor vehicle that was registered, a set of two license plates or one license plate, each of which must bear the assigned distinctive number.
History: En. Subd. 3, Sec. 1, Ch. 158, L. 1933; re-en. Sec. 1759.2, R.C.M. 1935; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 72, L. 1937; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 199, L. 1955; R.C.M. 1947, 53-116(part); amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 503, L. 1985; amd. Sec. 81, Ch. 542, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 62, Ch. 596, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 7, Ch. 196, L. 2013.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-333. Replacing license plates or decals

61-3-333. Replacing license plates or decals.
(1) Except as provided in subsection (2), if one or both license plates registered to a motor vehicle, quadricycle, travel trailer, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer or the registration decal for the motor vehicle, quadricycle, travel trailer, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer is mutilated or destroyed, the owner of the registered motor vehicle or trailer may obtain a set of replacement license plates, a replacement license plate, or a duplicate registration decal upon filing a sworn declaration stating that fact and payment of a fee of $10.
(2) If the owner requests that the replacement license plate or plates bear the same background and license plate number as the plate or plates that were destroyed or mutilated, the duplicate license plate or plates may be issued upon payment of a fee of $15.
(3) The fees imposed in this section must be deposited in the account established in 61-6-158, except that $2 of the fee imposed in subsection (1) must be deposited in the state general fund.
History: En. Subd. 7, Sec. 1, Ch. 158, L. 1933; re-en. Sec. 1759.6, R.C.M. 1935; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 47, L. 1955; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 86, L. 1969; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 226, L. 1971; R.C.M. 1947, 53-120; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 503, L. 1985; amd. Sec. 9, Ch. 724, L. 1991; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 280, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 35, Ch. 592, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 64, Ch. 596, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 13, Ch. 413, L. 2009.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-334. Transfer of ownership of motor vehicle -- duty to remove plates

61-3-334. Transfer of ownership of motor vehicle -- duty to remove plates.
Upon the transfer of ownership of a motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer, the transferor shall immediately remove the license plates from the motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer.
History: En. Sec. 1, Ch. 127, L. 1969; R.C.M. 1947, 53-145; amd. Sec. 84, Ch. 542, L. 2005; amd. Secs. 65, 152, Ch. 596, L. 2005.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-335. Transfer of license plates to another motor vehicle

61-3-335. Transfer of license plates to another motor vehicle.
(1) A person may request the transfer of license plates removed from a motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer under 61-3-334 to another motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer acquired or owned by the same person. The use of the license plates may not be legalized until proper transfer of license plates has been made.
(2) License plates may be transferred pursuant to this section without transferring ownership of the first motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer.
(3) Upon transfer of the license plates, the registration of the motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer from which the license plates were transferred expires.
History: En. Sec. 2, Ch. 127, L. 1969; amd. Sec. 6, Ch. 138, L. 1971; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 243, L. 1977; R.C.M. 1947, 53-146; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 106, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 415, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 27, Ch. 614, L. 1981; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 503, L. 1985; amd. Sec. 85, Ch. 542, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 66, Ch. 596, L. 2005.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-336. Recycling license plates

61-3-336. Recycling license plates.
The department is authorized to promote the recycling of used or outdated license plates for the metal content and may enter into contractual agreements with nonprofit organizations for the collection of used or outdated license plates and for their transportation to a central recycling point.
History: En. Sec. 1, Ch. 96, L. 1979; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 503, L. 1985.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-337. Permanently registered motor homes -- plate restriction

61-3-337. Permanently registered motor homes -- plate restriction.
The following series of license plates may not be used for purposes of permanent registration of a motor home:
(1) Montana national guard license plates issued under 61-3-458(2)(b);
(2) reserve armed forces license plates issued under 61-3-458(2)(c); and
(3) amateur radio operator license plates issued under 61-3-422.
History: En. Secs. 154, 155, Ch. 596, L. 2005; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 393, L. 2013.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-338. Contract for manufacture and distribution of license plates

61-3-338. Contract for manufacture and distribution of license plates.
(1) The department shall contract with Montana correctional enterprises for the manufacture, inventory control, storage, and distribution of all license plates issued under this chapter.
(2) The contract must include provisions for payment to Montana correctional enterprises after license plates are shipped to the department, the office of a county treasurer, an authorized agent, or a vehicle owner, as directed by the department or at the request of a vehicle owner.
(3) The contract must require Montana correctional enterprises to provide the necessary interface to support the automated ordering of license plates by the department or as directed by the department and to acquire and use readability software to assess any new plate design or manufactured plate and, if requested by the department, any previously issued license plates.
History: En. Sec. 4, Ch. 413, L. 2009; amd. Sec. 8, Ch. 196, L. 2013.
2023 Montana Code Annotated › Title 61. Motor Vehicles › Chapter 3. Certificates of Title, Registration, and Taxation of Motor Vehicles › Part 3. Registration › 61-3-341. Lost certificates

61-3-341. Lost certificates.
In the event any certificate of registration shall be lost, mutilated, or become illegible, the person to whom the same shall have been issued shall immediately make application for and may obtain a duplicate thereof, upon furnishing satisfactory information to the department of such facts and upon payment of a fee of $2.
History: En. Subd. 6, Sec. 2, Ch. 159, L. 1933; re-en. Sec. 1758.5, R.C.M. 1935; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 96, L. 1953; amd. Sec. 28, Ch. 121, L. 1965; R.C.M. 1947, 53-113(part); amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 503, L. 1985.