MontanaSB 9169th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)SenateWALLET

Require citizenship marker on driver's license and identification cards

Sponsored By: Theresa Manzella (Republican)

Became Law

Motor VehiclesTransportationState GovernmentAppropriations

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 3 mixed.

Veteran label on your driver’s license

If the Department of Military Affairs verifies your veteran status, the department adds the word “veteran” to your license. You must provide the required information and fees. After it is added, you do not need to show proof again for renewals or replacements.

Pay extra for expedited delivery

You can ask for expedited delivery of your license or ID. The department sets a fee that covers the actual cost. The fee money goes to the motor vehicle division administration account to pay for delivery, staff, and related technology.

Citizenship mark on Montana licenses

Beginning January 1, 2026, licenses and ID cards issued to U.S. citizens show an eagle image to mark citizenship. The mark appears only on cards issued on or after that date and only for citizens. The department adds the symbol when it issues qualifying licenses and IDs.

New rules for renewing your license

You may renew by mail or online if you meet the rules. Remote renewals last 12 years for a standard license and 8 years for a REAL ID license. You cannot use mail or online renewal if the agency lacks your digital photo and signature, your record shows ineligibility, you hold a CDL with a hazmat endorsement, you need to change your address, name, or birth date, your license is over 1 year expired, or your last renewal was by mail or online. The department must send your renewal notice 120 to 30 days before expiration to your Montana mailing address or electronically if you asked. The department can use county treasurers and other qualified officers as agents to sell license receipts and offer renewals, including in counties without a driver exam station.

Privacy rules and one-card limit

The department may not use your Social Security number as your license number. A license is not valid until you sign it. You may have only one active Montana driver’s license or ID card at a time.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Theresa Manzella
Republican • Senate

Cosponsors

Tracy Sharp
Republican • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 231 • No: 161

Senate vote • 4/18/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 58 • No: 40

Senate vote • 4/17/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 56 • No: 43

Senate vote • 3/6/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 34 • No: 16

Senate vote • 3/6/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 33 • No: 16

Senate vote • 2/5/2025

Do Pass As Amended

Yes: 32 • No: 16