How duplicate titles and temporary tags work in Montana.
Dealer-focused reference for Montana duplicate title requirements, temporary tag rules, and title submission deadlines. Administered by the Montana Motor Vehicle Division.
Always confirm current fees and forms at the official state site linked below.
Duplicate title: $10.30Temp tag: 40 daysDealer title deadline: 40 days
Temporary tags in Montana are valid for 40 days from the date of issue.
Dealer transport permits valid 40 days
Dealers in Montana must submit title paperwork within 40 days of the date of sale.
Stacking temporary tags — issuing a second consecutive temp tag to extend a vehicle's operation beyond the initial permit period without resolving the underlying title — is prohibited.
Dealer playbook
Keep a title-pending log sorted by temp tag expiration date. Review it every Monday.
Flag any vehicle where the title has not been applied for within half of the allowed deadline (Montana's window is 40 days).
Never issue a second temp tag as a workaround for an unresolved title problem — this is prohibited and auditable.
If you receive trade-ins with no title in hand, start the duplicate process immediately rather than waiting for retail sale.
Montana state quirk
Montana is one of the few states with no vehicle sales tax. This makes it a popular state for out-of-state vehicle registrations. Title work is handled at the county treasurer level.