Montana · Titles & temp tags

How duplicate titles and temporary permits work in Montana.

Dealer-focused overview of Montana’s MV7 replacement title form and 40‑day Temporary Registration Permits used while paperwork is at the county treasurer.

High-level dealer workflow Pairs with official Montana references Not legal advice

Duplicate / replacement titles

Montana duplicate title overview

Montana replacement titles are requested through the Motor Vehicle Division using Form MV7 – Application for Replacement Certificate of Title. The form goes through Helena or the appropriate county treasurer depending on how you submit it.

Confirm the vehicle is titled in Montana and gather the VIN, current titled owner, and any lienholder information.
Have the owner of record complete MV7, certify what happened to the original title, and sign where required.
Submit MV7 with the current fee to the Title and Registration Bureau or county office, following the instructions on the form.
Advise customers and sales staff that replacement titles can take time; do not schedule deliveries that depend on a title that has not yet been issued.

For auction purchases, make sure the purchase agreement spells out whether the seller or your dealership will file MV7 if the original title fails to arrive, and track that in your title-absent reporting.

Temporary tags / permits

Montana Temporary Registration Permits (TRPs)

Montana dealers and county offices may issue Temporary Registration Permits (TRPs) when paperwork from a dealership or lienholder is still being processed and a customer needs to operate the vehicle.

TRPs are often valid for up to 40 days, but only one TRP can be issued per sale.
Counties emphasize that TRPs are not a substitute for timely registration; they are intended only while title and registration documents are in the queue.
Dealers must follow the MVD’s TRP service guidelines and submit supporting paperwork promptly so the customer’s plates arrive before the permit expires.
Some counties will not issue temporary permits if the buyer already holds a notarized Montana title or out-of-state title in hand, so set expectations with customers accordingly.