REAL ID in Montana: $25, the documents, and your DMV link

$25

Montana charges an additional $25 fee for a REAL ID-compliant license or ID, on top of the standard fee.

REAL ID documents are the same federal set in every state. You’ll bring:

• One proof of identity and lawful status
• Proof of your Social Security number
• Two proofs of your state residency

Montana MVD publishes the exact accepted-document list — always check it before you go.

A REAL ID must be issued in person — federal rules require the DMV to see your original documents. In this state you must book an appointment first.

The $25 REAL ID surcharge is set by statute (Montana Code Annotated 61-5-129) and shown on the MVD REAL ID page; in-person application is required. Verified against the Montana Legislature's official statute site.

These link to the official Montana MVD site — not an aggregator or paid service.

REAL ID enforcement is in effect at TSA checkpoints. If you reach the airport without a REAL ID or another acceptable ID, TSA refers you to its ConfirmID process — a $45 fee (since February 1, 2026) that buys an attempt to verify your identity. It isn’t guaranteed, and you should expect extra time.

• A valid U.S. passport, passport card, or DHS trusted-traveler card lets you skip ConfirmID and the $45 fee entirely.
• The $45 is paid via Pay.gov and covers a 10-day travel window — arrive early, as it isn’t guaranteed.