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Last Updated on January 2, 2026
Car insurance rates in Montana have climbed in recent years—like they have in many states—thanks to higher vehicle repair costs, more expensive medical claims, and weather-related losses. Recent national datasets put Montana’s average full coverage premium anywhere from roughly the mid-$1,000s to the mid-$2,000s per year, depending on the methodology and driver profile used.
The good news: you can often beat the average by shopping around, adjusting coverage smartly, and stacking discounts. Below are the top auto insurers in Montana, plus the state’s insurance requirements, penalties for driving uninsured, and tips for common “high-rate” situations like DUIs, accidents, and poor credit.
“Best” depends on what you value most—lowest price, best claims experience, local agents, or flexible coverage options. These companies consistently perform well for Montana drivers and are widely available across the state.
To legally drive on public roads in Montana, your policy must include at least 25/50/20 in liability coverage:
Those limits are the legal minimum, not a recommendation. A single serious accident can easily exceed them, so many drivers choose higher limits for better financial protection.
Montana also uses electronic insurance verification, and drivers must be able to show proof of insurance when requested by law enforcement (digital ID cards are commonly accepted, but it’s smart to keep a copy saved offline).
Driving without insurance is illegal in Montana. If you’re cited, penalties can include fines, potential jail time, and suspension or revocation of your registration (and, in more serious cases, your license). Penalties can increase for repeat offenses.
If you were insured but didn’t have documentation on you, you may be able to resolve the issue by providing proof after the stop. Here’s what to expect if you don’t have proof of insurance during a traffic stop.
A DUI typically triggers a major rate increase, and some insurers may require an SR-22 filing. If you’re shopping after a DUI, start by comparing carriers that are known to stay competitive for high-risk drivers. This guide to cheap DUI/DWI car insurance can help you target the right companies first.
Tip: If you’re required to file an SR-22, ask the insurer to confirm the filing is submitted and accepted before you assume you’re cleared to drive.
At-fault accidents can raise premiums for several years. Many drivers can reduce the hit by increasing deductibles, re-quoting at renewal, and taking advantage of accident forgiveness (if available). If you’re unsure how fault impacts coverage, start here: what happens if you are at fault in an accident.
Most insurers rate speeding tickets for several years, and multiple violations can raise your premium significantly. If you’re shopping with a ticket on your record, focus on insurers that are known to be more forgiving and compare quotes at every renewal. For practical strategies, see how to find cheap auto insurance with a speeding ticket.
Drivers under 25 typically pay the most for coverage. The fastest ways to reduce costs are staying on a family policy (when eligible), maintaining good grades (where discounts apply), choosing a safe vehicle, and building a clean driving history. If you’re price-shopping for a teen or young adult, start with this guide to the cheapest car insurance for young drivers.
Montana insurers can use credit-based insurance scores in rating, which means poor credit (or limited credit history) can lead to higher premiums. If you’re seeing surprisingly high quotes, this may be a major factor. Learn more about how credit scores affect car insurance rates and consider comparing insurers—some weigh credit more heavily than others.
An SR-22 isn’t a type of insurance—it’s a form your insurer files to prove you carry at least Montana’s required liability coverage. You might need an SR-22 after certain violations (like driving uninsured) or when reinstating driving privileges.
Most insurers charge a small filing fee (often around $15–$25), but the bigger cost is usually the higher premium that comes with being rated as high-risk.
In many cases, Montana drivers need to maintain the SR-22 filing for multiple years. If you’re trying to plan ahead, see how long an SR-22 lasts and avoid coverage lapses during the filing period—one cancellation can restart the clock.
There’s no single “best” car insurance company in Montana for everyone. The best approach is to compare several quotes for the same coverage, then choose the carrier that balances price, service, and policy features for your situation.
Whether you’re in Billings, Missoula, Great Falls, Bozeman, or a smaller rural community, shopping around regularly—and using discounts intelligently—can help you lock in the best Montana auto insurance for your needs.
