How often do I need to renew my vehicle registration in Montana

There are a few key points regarding how often vehicle registrations need to be renewed in Montana:

1. Most vehicle registrations in Montana are renewed annually on the anniversary date of the initial registration.
2. However, Montana allows owners of light vehicles (under 1 ton) that are 11 years old or older to permanently register the vehicle for a one-time. Once permanently registered, no further renewals are required for the lifetime of the vehicle.
3. There is typically a grace period of around 25 days after the registration expiration date to renew before penalties apply. The registration technically expires on the last day of the month preceding the anniversary month.
4. Renewals can be done online, by mail, or in person at the county treasurer's office. Montana does not require annual vehicle inspections or emissions testing for renewals.
5. For permanently registered older vehicles, no renewal action is needed after the one-time permanent registration fee is paid.

So in summary, most vehicles require annual registration renewals around the anniversary month, but Montana provides the cost-saving option of permanent one-time registration for light vehicles 11+ years old. This eliminates any future renewal requirements or fees for the life of those older vehicles after paying for permanent plates.