In the State of Montana, first-time offenders of the State’s driving under the influence (DUI) laws may be granted a probationary license by the court. A probationary license allows the offender to drive to specific places, such as work or school. One of the conditions of being granted a probationary license may be the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in all vehicles operated by the offender. The IID must be installed, serviced, and removed by a state-authorized service provider at the offender’s expense. First-time offenders are not eligible for a probationary license if their license is suspended or revoked in another state.
Only first-time and per se DWI offenders are eligible for a probationary license. Second and subsequent convictions result in a one-year license suspension. A court-approved alcohol treatment program that includes assessment, education, and monthly monitoring must take place during the suspension. Individuals ordered to alcohol treatment must pay a $200 reinstatement fee at the end of their suspension period. Failure to complete treatment and pay the reinstatement fee may result in permanent license suspension along with the seizure of all vehicles. An IID must be installed on all of the offender’s vehicles for twelve (12) months after completion of the treatment program and payment of fees.
DUI penalties in the State of Montana include:
- Fines
- Jail time
- Court-ordered treatment
- Suspension or revocation of driving privileges
- Seizure and/or forfeiture of vehicles
- Felony charges for 4th and subsequent DUI convictions