Montana CMV Compliance Guide
MT DOT regulations for commercial motor vehicles
MT DOT Motor Carrier ServicesOfficial MT DOT websiteOverview
Montana DOT Motor Carrier Services handles commercial vehicle regulation and enforcement, with the Montana Highway Patrol conducting roadside inspections. Montana's vast distances and low population density create unique challenges. The state is a key agricultural and energy freight corridor.
Inspection & Enforcement Program
Montana operates ports of entry and weigh stations on major highways. The Highway Patrol performs Level I through Level III inspections. Enforcement is concentrated on I-90, I-94, and I-15.
Weight Limits & Oversize/Overweight
Montana follows federal weight limits of 80,000 lbs GVW on Interstate highways. On state highways, Montana allows higher weights with specific configurations, including combinations up to 131,060 lbs on designated routes with a special permit. Montana also allows longer combination vehicles (LCVs) including triples on certain routes.
Montana-Specific Requirements
- Montana allows longer combination vehicles (LCVs), including triple trailers, on designated routes.
- The state permits gross vehicle weights up to 131,060 lbs on certain non-Interstate routes with proper configurations.
- Montana has no posted daytime speed limit for passenger vehicles but enforces specific speed limits for commercial vehicles.
- Seasonal weight restrictions apply on some routes during spring thaw.
Contact
MDT Motor Carrier Services: (406) 444-7262
Federal Requirements That Apply in Montana
In addition to Montana-specific regulations, all federal DOT and FMCSA requirements apply to commercial vehicles operating in MT. These guides cover each federal requirement in detail:
This information is provided as a general reference. State regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the Montana DOT or your compliance advisor before relying on any information presented here.