Montana Releases New, More Secure Driver’s License for 2025

As of December 2025, Montana unveiled redesigned driver license and identification cards.

The Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) announced the update as part of a statewide effort to better protect residents against identity theft and driver license fraud.

While the design celebrates some of Montana’s most iconic landscapes, the real upgrades are in its advanced security technology.

What’s New with Montana Driver’s Licenses?

The redesigned cards are made from long-lasting polycarbonate, a material used by many of the most secure credentials in the country.

The background features notable Montana landmarks and scenery and honors the state’s natural beauty while dramatically improving durability.

Key design elements include:

• Black and white laser-engraved images
• Multi-color ink and color-shifting elements
• Ultraviolet (UV) security designs
• Raised tactile features that are easy to feel but difficult to duplicate
  

These updates make Montana’s credentials among the most secure in the nation.

Identity & Eligibility Icons

In addition to the star symbol for drivers with a REAL ID–compliant license, the new design will also show an eagle symbol if the license holder is a U.S. citizen. 

The latter was decided during this year’s Montana Legislature session when lawmakers passed Senate Bill 91. These updates will begin at the start of 2026.  

A black heart with a “Y” inside indicates the cardholder is an organ donor. 

The changes will apply to new licenses, but you will not need to replace your current license until the expiration date listed on the card.

Improved Security Features

While Montana’s previous licenses already featured encoded elements like barcodes and security backgrounds, the redesigned license significantly upgrades nearly every aspect of its fraud prevention.

The combination of polycarbonate construction, engraved features, and multi-layered security elements makes the new cards difficult to alter or duplicate.

For businesses, law enforcement, and TSA agents, these features create clear and reliable verification points which reduces the risk of fraudulent IDs.

Changes to the Issuance Process

Unlike some states transitioning to centralized issuance, Montana’s announcement focuses on the credential redesign, not the issuance workflow. Residents will continue to schedule appointments and renew licenses through MVD as usual.

To renew or schedule an appointment, residents can visit https://mvdmt.gov/

What to Know: For Montana Residents

The upgraded drivers’ licenses are built to protect you.

Here are the main changes to know about:

• Your current license remains valid until its expiration date. No immediate action is needed.
• The new polycarbonate cards last longer and withstands daily wear and tear.
• Enhanced security features make it harder for someone to copy or misuse your credentials.
• REAL ID versions remain available if you need them for federal purposes.

What to Know: For Business Owners

For Montana businesses that rely on ID verification like bars, restaurants, cannabis dispensaries, financial institutions, and more, this new design is a welcome improvement.

With the upgraded security elements:

• Fake IDs will be easier to spot
• Tactile and laser-engraved components make fraud detection easier
• UV and color-shifting features provide reliable secondary checks
• Existing ID scanner systems, can read and verify the new credentials without requiring hardware changes

Montana joins South Carolina and Texas, among other states, in unveiling new, more secure licenses in 2025 to reduce risks, offer faster verification, and help business owners spot fraudulent IDs.
For appointments or renewals, visit the MVD website.