Updated April 2026
State Requirements
Montana requires minimum liability coverage of 25/50/20: $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $20,000 for property damage. Drivers convicted of DUI, cited for driving without insurance, involved in uninsured at-fault accidents, or accumulating excessive violations must file SR-22 proof of financial responsibility with the Montana Motor Vehicle Division. The state also mandates uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage at the same limits as liability unless explicitly rejected in writing.
Cost Overview
High-risk auto insurance rates in Montana vary significantly based on violation type, number of incidents, driver age, location, and vehicle. A DUI conviction typically increases premiums by 180–250% over standard rates, while multiple at-fault accidents or major violations can double or triple baseline costs. Montana's lower population density and fewer non-standard carrier options in rural areas often result in higher premiums compared to urban centers like Billings or Missoula.
What Affects Your Rate
- Violation type: DUI convictions carry higher surcharges than at-fault accidents or speeding violations
- Time since incident: Rates decrease as violations age, with most surcharges reducing after 3 years and dropping off after 5–7 years
- Location: Urban areas like Billings and Missoula have more carrier competition and lower average rates than rural counties with limited non-standard options
- Vehicle type: Higher-value vehicles and models with poor safety ratings increase comprehensive and collision premiums for high-risk drivers
- Age and experience: Drivers under 25 with violations face compounded rate increases, often 300–400% above standard rates
- Credit-based insurance score: Montana allows credit scoring for insurance rating, and high-risk drivers with poor credit pay significantly more than those with good credit
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Get Your Free QuoteCoverage Types
Liability Insurance
Covers injuries and property damage you cause to others in an at-fault accident. Montana's 25/50/20 minimums are often insufficient for serious accidents, leaving high-risk drivers exposed to lawsuits exceeding policy limits.
SR-22 Filing
Certificate of financial responsibility filed by your insurer with the Montana MVD proving you maintain continuous coverage. Required for DUIs, uninsured accidents, suspensions, and major violations.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Protects you when hit by drivers without insurance or insufficient coverage to pay for your injuries and damages. Montana mandates UM/UIM at the same limits as your liability unless you reject it in writing.
Non-Standard Auto Insurance
Policies designed for high-risk drivers who cannot qualify for standard coverage due to DUIs, suspensions, lapses, or multiple violations. Non-standard carriers specialize in SR-22 filings and accept higher-risk profiles.
Collision Coverage
Pays for damage to your vehicle after an at-fault accident regardless of your driving record. Required by lenders on financed vehicles, with deductibles typically $1,000–$2,500 for high-risk drivers.
Comprehensive Coverage
Covers theft, vandalism, weather damage, and animal strikes. Montana's rural areas have high wildlife collision rates, making comprehensive valuable even for high-risk drivers with older vehicles.
