Montana Permit Practice Test — Written Test, Free to Start

Free 10-question Montana permit practice test, then 35-question practice tests, each question cited to the Montana Driver Manual.

The exam

This practice test is 35 questions, and 28 correct is a pass. Everything on it comes out of Montana Driver Manual. Officially it is the knowledge test; most people call it the written test, or the permit test.

Montana does not publish how many questions its knowledge test asks. This practice test asks 35, and passes at the 80% that follows from Montana’s own rules (ARM 23.3.121(4)(d): “Combined Operator/Signs Test: 7 or less wrong is passing score.”).

How this works

Most practice tests hand you a bank of questions and leave the manual somewhere else. This one puts them together.

You read one law and the reason behind it, then answer a question on that law while it is still fresh. Get it right and you move on; get it wrong and you have found the gap while it is cheap to fix, not on the morning of the exam.

Learning one rule at a time, and proving it immediately, is what turns a manual you skimmed into something you actually know — and it makes studying feel like getting somewhere rather than like waiting to find out.

Ask a question about Montana road law

Easier than searching the manual: ask in your own words — how far from a fire hydrant you may park, when you must stop for a school bus — and the answer comes from Montana Driver Manual or Montana’s code, with the page or the section it is in. When neither says, the answer says so rather than guess. Or tick Nationwide and compare every state on one question.

Ask a question

Montana driving law, answered

Montana driving questions, answered

What it costs

  • One payment, once — not a subscription. Nothing renews and there is nothing to cancel, for an exam you sit one time.
  • Free to start: a 10-question test and the first section of cards. No sign-up and no account.
  • Paying opens the rest of the cards, unlimited full-length practice tests, and retests built from exactly the questions you got wrong.
  • Every level up to Prepared — 3 tests passed in a row.
  • Do the work, fail the real exam, and we refund you.

What Montana tests

206 concepts, 753 separate rules. Each one is a page of its own.

Questions from the Montana test

Which document must a Montana driver always have in their possession?

A valid Montana driver license. A driver stopped without a license cannot show the officer that they are allowed to drive at all. Montana Driver Manual, p.1: “Drivers must always have a valid Montana driver license in their possession and motorcycle endorsements are required to operate a motorcycle or motor scooter.”

Can you hold both a Montana state ID card and a Montana driver license?

No, you must choose one or the other. Two cards in one name make it easy for someone else to use the spare one as you. Montana Driver Manual, p.2: “You must choose to have either a state ID or driver license, but you cannot have both.”

Under a Traffic Education Permit, who must directly supervise the student driver?

A traffic education instructor. A brand-new student at the wheel needs a trained teacher right there to catch mistakes before they become crashes. Montana Driver Manual, p.2: “A TEP allows a student who is enrolled in a state-approved traffic education course* to operate a motor vehicle during traffic education training, while under the direct supervision of a traffic education instructor.”

With an approved traffic education course, what is the youngest age for a Montana learner permit?

14 ½ years old. Starting this young is safe only because a trained course teaches the teen first. Montana Driver Manual, p.2: “A NCLP may be issued to any person who is at least 14 ½ years of age and who is participating in or successfully completed a traffic education course* approved by the Department of Justice and the Superintendent of Public Instruction.”

Where must the supervising adult sit while a learner permit holder drives?

In the seat beside the driver. A helper in the back seat cannot see the road ahead the way the driver does or grab the wheel in time. Montana Driver Manual, p.2: “A NCLP is good for the operation of a Class D vehicle when accompanied by a licensed driver education instructor, parent or legal guardian, or other adult with parent or guardian permission occupying the seat beside the driver.”

Your license is suspended in another state. Can you get a Montana driver license?

No, not while you are suspended there. Without this, a driver who lost their license for drunk driving could just move and start fresh. Montana Driver Manual, p.3: “You cannot apply for, be issued, or retain a Montana driver license if you are suspended or revoked in any other state or jurisdiction.”

After moving to Montana, how long may you drive on a valid license from your old state?

Up to 60 consecutive days. A driver who never switches over leaves Montana with no record of who they are or what they have done on the road. Montana Driver Manual, p.3: “If you have a valid driver license issued by the jurisdiction you moved from, you can use it for up to 60 consecutive days, after which you must surrender it and qualify for a Montana license.”

A service member's spouse drives in Montana on a valid out-of-state license. What would require a Montana license?

Getting a paid job in Montana. A family member working here full time is living here like any resident, so they should be licensed like one. Montana Driver Manual, p.4: “Active-duty military personnel and their dependents may retain their valid out-of-state license and drive in Montana unless they become gainfully employed.”

What is the middle step of Montana's Graduated Driver Licensing program?

A first-year restricted license. Handing a new teen every privilege at once skips the stage where crashes are most likely. Montana Driver Manual, p.7: “The GDL program includes an instruction permit, first-year restricted license, and full-privilege driver license.”

Before moving to the restricted license, what must a teen avoid in the prior six months?

Traffic violations and alcohol or drug offenses. A teen who is already breaking rules while supervised is not ready to drive alone. Montana Driver Manual, p.7: “The teen driver must not receive any traffic violations or alcohol/drug offenses in the six-month period before advancing to GDL Step 2: First-Year Restricted License.”

How long does the restriction stay on a first-year restricted license?

1 year. A teen's highest crash risk is in the first months and first 1,000 miles of driving alone, so the limits last through that stretch. Montana Driver Manual, p.8: “This restriction will remain on the driver license for one year.”

What is the penalty for a first violation of the restricted license rules?

20 to 60 hours of community service. A rule with no cost for breaking it is one many teens would test on a Friday night. Montana Driver Manual, p.8: “First Offense: Between 20 to 60 hours of community service.”

If you are under 21, when does your Montana license expire?

On your 21st birthday. A license that ends at 21 brings young drivers back in for a check and a new photo as adults. Montana Driver Manual, p.8: “If you are under the age of 21, your license expires on your 21st birthday”

How many attempts does a license receipt give you to pass all required exams?

3 attempts. A driver who keeps failing needs more practice, not endless retries on the same receipt. Montana Driver Manual, p.9: “For those testing, the receipt allows the applicant three attempts within that year to successfully pass all required examinations.”

How early may you renew your Montana driver license?

Up to 6 months before it expires. Without an early window, a driver away on the expiry date would come home to a license that no longer works. Montana Driver Manual, p.9: “You may renew your license up to six months before the expiration date of your license.”

Why must you show identification to replace a lost license?

So no one else gets a license in your name. A thief with your name and birth date could otherwise walk out with a license that has your name on it. Montana Driver Manual, p.10: “This identification is needed not only to establish your identity, but also to ensure no one else obtains a replacement license in your name.”

According to the manual, what is the best way to save fuel and prolong the life of your car?

Use the car as little as you can. Every extra trip burns gas and puts more wear on the engine, brakes and tires. Montana Driver Manual, p.12: “The best way to save on fuel and prolong the life of your car is to use it as little as possible.”

Which of these is a sign your brakes need a mechanic?

The brake pedal goes to the floor. Brakes that grind or sink to the floor can give out just when the car ahead stops short. Montana Driver Manual, p.12: “When your brakes are making a lot of noise, smell funny, or the brake pedal goes to the floor, have a mechanic check them.”

What should you do if your windshield glass is damaged?

Have the windshield replaced. A cracked windshield can shatter when a stone hits it at highway speed. Montana Driver Manual, p.13: “Have the windshield replaced if the glass is damaged.”

Your car does not turn when you first turn the steering wheel. What should a mechanic check?

The steering system. A car that lags behind the wheel can drift out of its lane on a curve. Montana Driver Manual, p.13: “If the vehicle is hard to turn or does not turn when the steering wheel is first turned, have the steering checked by a mechanic.”

How quickly can fumes from a leaky exhaust kill?

In a very short time. A driver breathing the fumes can pass out before knowing anything is wrong. Montana Driver Manual, p.13: “Fumes from a leaky exhaust can cause death in a very short time.”

What can a poorly tuned engine do?

Lose power you need in an emergency. An engine that stalls in the middle of a highway leaves you stuck in the path of traffic. Montana Driver Manual, p.13: “A poorly tuned engine may lose power that is needed for normal driving and emergencies, may not start, gets poor fuel economy, pollutes the air, and could die on you when you are on the road, causing you and other traffic a problem.”

What color light must a vehicle's tail lights show to the rear?

Red or amber. Lights of the wrong color confuse other drivers about which way your car is facing. Montana Driver Manual, p.14: “Vehicles manufactured after January 1, 1956, must emit white or amber light to the front and red or amber light to the rear, visible for 500 feet.”

When an oncoming vehicle is within what distance must you dim your high beams?

1,000 feet. High beams in an oncoming driver's eyes can blind them just as you pass each other. Montana Driver Manual, p.14: “High beam must be dimmed when meeting other vehicles at 1000 feet and when overtaking other vehicles at 500 feet.”

In sunlight, from how far must turn signals be visible?

300 feet. A signal nobody can see in bright sun gives no warning before you turn. Montana Driver Manual, p.15: “Vehicles manufactured after January 1, 1956, must emit a white or amber light to the front and red or amber light to the rear, visible for 300 feet in the sunlight.”

Rear red reflectors must be visible in high beams at what range of distances?

Between 50 and 300 feet. A parked car with dead lights shows nothing in the dark unless its reflectors catch your beams. Montana Driver Manual, p.15: “Must be visible at night when in front of high beam headlights for all distances between 50 and 300 feet.”

A vehicle is parked on a roadway at night. From how far must its parking lights be visible?

500 feet. A dark car stopped on the road at night is a wall that drivers find too late. Montana Driver Manual, p.15: “During the time head lamps are required, any vehicle which is parked or stopped on a roadway must be equipped with and display parking lights which must display a white or amber light to the front and a red light to the rear, visible for a distance of 500 feet.”

What kind of glass must a front windshield have on vehicles made after January 1, 1956?

Safety glass. Ordinary glass breaks into knife-like pieces that fly into the car in a crash. Montana Driver Manual, p.15: “A front windshield with safety glass (if manufactured after January 1, 1956) is required in motor vehicles.”

A bus or truck must have front and rear clearance lamps when it is wider than what?

80 inches. Without lamps at its corners, a wide truck at night looks narrower than it is. Montana Driver Manual, p.16: “If over 80 inches in width, every bus or truck, and every trailer or semi-trailer in excess of 3000 pounds GVW must have on the front and rear two clearance lamps, one at each side.”

What must every vehicle, whatever its size, have on the rear?

Two reflectors and a stop light. A car with no reflectors and a dead battery disappears on a dark shoulder. Montana Driver Manual, p.16: “Every vehicle, whatever its size, must have on the rear: two reflectors and a stop light, in addition to the clearance lamps required;”

At night, what must a farm tractor moved on the highway show to the front?

A white light seen for 500 feet. A tractor on a dark highway moves so slowly that a car can be on top of it before seeing it. Montana Driver Manual, p.16: “During the time head lamps are required, any farm tractor or implement of husbandry, moved on the highway, must display a white light to the front, visible for at least 500 feet and a red light to the rear, visible for 500 feet.”

A trailer heavier than what gross weight must have break-away brakes?

3,000 pounds. A heavy trailer that comes loose with no brakes of its own rolls on into whatever is ahead. Montana Driver Manual, p.17: “Every trailer, semi-trailer and pole trailer equipped with air or vacuum brakes, or which has a gross weight in excess of 3000 pounds, must have “break-away” brakes, which are activated if the vehicle is separated from the towing vehicle.”

Mud flaps must reach down to no more than how high above the road when the vehicle is empty?

20 inches. Flaps that hang too high let tires fling rocks into the windshield behind. Montana Driver Manual, p.17: “Trucks, buses, truck trailers, trailers/semi-trailers, or pole trailers, or vehicles of 8000 pounds or less GVW shall have fenders, splash aprons, or flaps on the rear most wheels or set of wheels, that extend down to a point not more than 20 inches above the surface of the highway, when the vehicle is empty.”

At least how many flares, red lanterns or red reflectors must a truck of one-ton capacity carry?

3 devices. A big truck broken down at night needs warnings spread out behind it, and one flare is not enough. Montana Driver Manual, p.17: “Every truck of one-ton capacity or larger, passenger bus and truck tractor must be equipped with at least three flares, or three red electric lanterns, or three portable red reflectors.”

When a truck is disabled at night, where does the first warning device go?

At the traffic side of the vehicle. Traffic bearing down on a stalled truck needs a warning right at the truck while the others are set out. Montana Driver Manual, p.18: “A warning device as previously described shall be immediately placed at the traffic side of the vehicle in the direction of approaching traffic.”

A vehicle that normally runs at or under what speed must show a slow-moving vehicle emblem?

25 mph. A driver closing at 70 mph on a vehicle doing 20 has seconds to see it is barely moving. Montana Driver Manual, p.18: “Any slow-moving vehicle or equipment, animal-drawn vehicle, or road construction or maintenance machinery normally operating at or under 25 miles per hour must display an emblem on the rear of the vehicle as described below, except for road construction or maintenance machinery engaged in actual construction or maintenance work and guarded by a flagger or warning signs.”

Why does the manual say to keep your windshield clean?

Glare on dirt makes it hard to see. Driving into a low sun, a smeared windshield turns into a white sheet of glare. Montana Driver Manual, p.18: “Keep the windshield clean. Bright sun or headlights on a dirty windshield make it hard to see.”

If you cannot sit high enough to see the road clearly, what does the manual suggest?

Use a seat cushion. A short driver peering through the wheel cannot see a child just ahead of the hood. Montana Driver Manual, p.19: “Adjust your seat so that you are high enough to clearly see the road. If necessary, use a seat cushion.”

In Montana, who in the vehicle must wear a safety belt?

Each occupant. One unbelted rider is enough to turn a fender bender into a hospital trip. Montana Driver Manual, p.19: “No person may drive a motor vehicle in Montana unless each occupant is wearing a properly adjusted and fastened safety belt.”

Your vehicle has a separate lap belt and shoulder belt. What should you wear?

Both the lap and shoulder belt. A lap belt alone lets your head and chest snap forward into the wheel. Montana Driver Manual, p.19: “If your vehicle has a two-part safety belt system, wear both the lap belt and shoulder belt.”

Which vehicles are an exception to Montana's seatbelt law?

Vehicles made before January 1, 1968. Many older cars were built without belts for every seat, so riders there cannot buckle. Montana Driver Manual, p.20: “Exceptions to the seatbelt law include:”

Montana requires a child safety seat for children up to what age and weight?

Age 6 and 60 pounds. An adult belt rides across a small child's neck and belly, where it injures instead of protects. Montana Driver Manual, p.20: “Babies and children up to age 6 and 60 pounds must be buckled in a child safety seat.”

Where must a rear-facing car seat never be placed?

In the front seat with a live air bag. An air bag opens with enough force to slam a rear-facing seat into the dashboard. Montana Driver Manual, p.20: “Never place a rear-facing car seat in the front passenger seat with an active air bag.”

In heavy fog, what may be the only part of a sign you can make out?

Its shape. A driver who knows signs only by their words can miss a stop sign that fog has turned into a dark outline. Montana Driver Manual, p.22: “In poor visibility conditions, such as heavy fog, you may be able to make out only the shape of a sign.”

Which traffic sign is the only one with eight sides?

The stop sign. Its shape lets you spot a stop sign from the back, or under snow, when you cannot read the word. Montana Driver Manual, p.23: “The STOP sign is the only eight-sided traffic sign.”

What does this sign require you to do?

Stop fully, then yield to nearby traffic. A rolling stop gives you no time to see the car that is about to cross in front of you. Montana Driver Manual, p.23: “It means that you must come to a complete stop before entering the intersection ahead and yield to traffic close enough to be an immediate hazard.”

What do Montana's regulatory signs usually look like?

Rectangles with black on white. Mistaking an order for a suggestion is how a driver gets a ticket, or worse, a crash. Montana Driver Manual, p.24: “Regulatory signs are rectangular with black words or symbols on a white background.”

What shape are most warning signs?

A diamond. Knowing the warning shape lets you start slowing for a hazard before you can read the sign. Montana Driver Manual, p.25: “Warning signs are usually diamond shaped.”

What does this sign tell you is ahead?

A road that crosses yours. A car from the side road can pull out in front of you before you have time to stop. Montana Driver Manual, p.25: “A four-way intersection is ahead. Be alert for cross traffic entering the roadway.”

What does a T Intersection warning sign tell you?

You must turn right or left ahead. A driver who expects the road to go on may run straight off the end into a ditch. Montana Driver Manual, p.25: “You cannot go straight ahead. Road turns to both right and left.”

What does this sign tell you about the highway ahead?

It is being repaired; go with caution. Workers and machines can be just past a curve, in the lane you are using. Montana Driver Manual, p.27: “They are warning the highway ahead is being repaired, approach with caution.”

What shape are most signs in a work area?

Diamond. Spotting the shape early tells you to watch for a lane shift or workers even before you read it. Montana Driver Manual, p.27: “Most signs in work areas are diamond shaped.”

What happens to a traffic fine for a violation in a Montana work zone?

It is doubled. Workers stand a few feet from moving cars, so the law makes speeding there cost twice as much. Montana Driver Manual, p.27: “The fines for violation of a work zone are double the amount.”

How low may a Montana school zone speed limit be?

15 mph. At low speed a car can stop in time when a child runs out from behind a parked bus. Montana Driver Manual, p.29: “School zone speed limits may be as low as 15 mph”

Where does a Montana school zone begin?

At the school's front door. A driver who thinks the zone starts only at the sign may speed past the front steps. Montana Driver Manual, p.29: “School zone means an area near a school beginning at the school’s front door, encompassing the campus and school property, and including the streets directly adjacent to the school property and for as many blocks surrounding the school as determined by the local authority establishing a special speed limit.”

Why should you stop before a school crosswalk, not in it?

So other drivers can see the walkers. A car stopped in the crosswalk hides the child from the driver in the next lane. Montana Driver Manual, p.29: “Drivers should stop before crosswalks so other drivers can also see pedestrians.”

Near a school, what shows you where the speed limit changes?

Signs, markings or flashing lights. Missing a flashing light can carry you into a 15 mph zone at full speed. Montana Driver Manual, p.29: “Watch for signs, markings, and/or flashing lights as indicators of speed limit changes.”

What should you do at an intersection where the signal is not working?

Stop as if it were an all-way stop. Rolling through a dark signal assumes the cross traffic will stop for you, and it may not. Montana Driver Manual, p.30: “Generally, if a signal is not working, stop as you would if there were stop signs in all directions.”

At a steady red light with no stop line, where do you stop?

Before the nearest crosswalk. Stopping over the line puts your bumper in the crosswalk where people walk on their signal. Montana Driver Manual, p.30: “If there is no stop line, stop before entering the nearest crosswalk or before entering the intersection if there is no crosswalk.”

When may you enter an intersection on a steady yellow light?

When you are too close to stop safely. Speeding up to beat the yellow is how drivers end up in the intersection on red. Montana Driver Manual, p.30: “Do not enter an intersection against a steady yellow light unless you are too close to stop safely.”

On a steady green light, what should you watch for as you go?

Traffic that may run its red light. Pulling out the instant the light turns green puts you in the path of a driver racing through a late red. Montana Driver Manual, p.31: “Look both ways for oncoming traffic that may run the red light.”

What is the driving speed in a Montana roundabout?

15 mph or less. Going in fast leaves no time to yield to the car already circling or the person in the crosswalk. Montana Driver Manual, p.32: “Slow Down – Driving speeds in roundabouts are 15 mph or less.”

In a roundabout with a large truck, what should a car driver do?

Drop back behind the truck. A truck's trailer swings wide, and a car beside it can be squeezed against the curb. Montana Driver Manual, p.32: “The driver of the smaller vehicle should drop back behind the larger truck as it completes its travel through the roundabout.”

When you must stop for a train, how close to the nearest rail may you stop?

No closer than 15 feet. A train is wider than its rails, so a car stopped right at the track can still be hit. Montana Driver Manual, p.33: “You are required to STOP at railroad crossings as close as practicable but not less than 15 feet from the nearest rail when warning signals, crossing gates, stop signs, or human watchmen indicate the approach of a train, or when the train is within 1500 feet of the crossing or if clearly visible and an obvious hazard.”

What may be painted on the pavement before a railroad crossing?

A stop line, an X and the letters RR. A crossing on a dark rural road may have no other warning you can see from far off. Montana Driver Manual, p.33: “Pavement markings consisting of a STOP LINE, an X and letters RR may be painted on the pavement in front of crossings.”

What should you do when you pass this sign?

Slow down, look, listen, be ready to stop. A driver who waits until the tracks to look may not have room to stop for a train. Montana Driver Manual, p.33: “They tell you to slow down, look, listen, and be prepared to stop at the crossing ahead.”

When may you cross a broken yellow centerline?

To pass, when it is safe. A driver who treats a broken line as a lane to drift in can wander into oncoming cars. Montana Driver Manual, p.34: “A broken yellow line as the centerline may be crossed.”

What color are the lines that separate traffic moving in opposite directions?

Yellow. Mistaking a yellow line for a lane line can put you in a lane of cars coming at you. Montana Driver Manual, p.34: “Lines separating traffic moving in opposite directions are yellow.”

Which pedestrians must you yield to at a crosswalk?

All those in it or about to enter it. A person stepping off the curb has no armor if a car keeps rolling. Montana Driver Manual, p.34: “You must yield to pedestrians in or about to enter a crosswalk.”

What usually marks a reversible lane?

Double-dashed yellow lines. A driver who does not spot these lines may use a lane that is now carrying traffic the other way. Montana Driver Manual, p.35: “Double-dashed yellow lines usually mark these lanes.”

What symbol often marks a reserved lane?

A white diamond. A driver who misses the diamond ends up in a bus or carpool lane and blocks the vehicles it was made for. Montana Driver Manual, p.35: “Reserved lanes are marked by signs stating that the lane is reserved for special use, and often have a white diamond posted at the side of the road or painted on the road surface.”

What is a shared center lane used for?

Left turns by traffic from both directions. Using the center lane to pass or to drive in sends you toward a car turning from the other side. Montana Driver Manual, p.35: “These center lanes are reserved for making left turns (or U-turns when they are permitted) but can be used by vehicles traveling in both directions.”

What should you do before you back a parked car out?

Walk around the parked car. A small child or a bike behind the car sits below the rear window, where no mirror shows it. Montana Driver Manual, p.37: “Walk around your parked car before backing up.”

In town, how far before a turn must you signal?

100 feet. A late signal gives the car behind no time to slow, so it is still at speed when you brake to turn. Montana Driver Manual, p.37: “Use a proper turn signal 100 feet before turning in town, 300 feet before turning on rural roads.”

The road is icy. How should your speed compare with the posted limit?

You may need to drive below it. The posted limit is set for a dry, clear road, so on ice it can be far too fast to stop. Montana Driver Manual, p.38: “If the road or weather is bad, you may need to drive below the speed limit.”

What is the daytime interstate speed limit for heavy trucks?

65 mph. A loaded truck needs far more road to stop than a car, so it is held to a lower speed. Montana Driver Manual, p.38: “Interstate Highways 75/80 75/80 65 65”

On a two-lane road, by how much may you exceed the limit to pass and get back into the right lane?

10 mph. A pass held to the limit leaves you in the oncoming lane much longer, facing whatever comes. Montana Driver Manual, p.38: “Vehicles traveling on a two-lane road may exceed the speed limit by 10 miles an hour in order to overtake and pass another vehicle and return safely to the right lane.”

With no signs or lane markings, which lane should you turn into?

The lane closest to the one you came from. Swinging into a far lane crosses paths with other cars that are turning at the same time. Montana Driver Manual, p.38: “Where there are no signs or lane markings to control turning, you should turn from the lane that is closest to the direction you want to go and turn into the lane closest to the one you came from.”

Why should you avoid swinging wide to the left before a right turn?

The driver behind may try to pass you on the right. A car that slips into the gap on your right is hit when you finish the turn. Montana Driver Manual, p.38: “On right turns, avoid swinging wide to the left before turning to make the turn easier.”

To turn around on a roadway, how far must you be able to see clearly in both directions?

500 feet. A car crossing the road sideways is a wall, and anyone coming fast needs that distance to see it and stop. Montana Driver Manual, p.39: “You may turn around on a roadway where the driver has 500 feet in both directions (almost two average city blocks) of unobstructed view and no vehicles are approaching.”

What does the law say about the right-of-way?

It says who must yield, not who gets it. A driver who thinks the road is owed to him keeps going straight into a car that did not yield. Montana Driver Manual, p.39: “Where vehicles or pedestrians are likely to meet one another, and there are no signs or signals to regulate traffic, there are rules that say who must yield the right-of-way.”

A pedestrian steps into the street against the rules. What is your duty?

Yield to them, even though they are wrong. A person on foot always loses against a car, so a walker's mistake must not become a death. Montana Driver Manual, p.39: “These laws are well and good, but it is still the driver’s basic responsibility to be alert for pedestrians and to yield the right-of-way, even if the pedestrian is wrong.”

You are leaving a parking lot across a sidewalk. Whom must you yield to?

Pedestrians on the sidewalk. People on a sidewalk do not expect a car to roll across their path from a driveway. Montana Driver Manual, p.40: “Drivers crossing a sidewalk, entering or exiting a driveway, alley, or parking lot must yield to pedestrians.”

At a four-way stop, which driver goes first?

The one who reached the intersection first. With no order, two drivers who both stopped would pull out together and meet in the middle. Montana Driver Manual, p.40: “At a four-way stop, the driver reaching the intersection first gets to go first (after coming to a complete stop).”

At a red light with no sign against it, what must you do before turning right?

Stop and make sure it is safe. Rolling through a red without stopping gives you no time to see a walker or a car coming from the left. Montana Driver Manual, p.40: “At intersections controlled by a light, unless there is a sign that says you cannot turn right, you may turn right AFTER YOU HAVE STOPPED (if vehicle is in the proper lane) and you have determined it is safe to do so.”

Stopped at a crosswalk, when may you turn right while a pedestrian is still crossing?

When they are safe in the far half. Waiting for a walker who is already far across holds up traffic for no reason, but turning near one can hit them. Montana Driver Manual, p.40: “When a vehicle is stopped at a marked crosswalk or at an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection, the driver can make a right turn if the pedestrian is in the opposite half of the roadway and is not in danger.”

Which emergency vehicles must you yield the right-of-way to?

Ones using a siren and red or blue lights. An ambulance that has to weave around cars loses minutes a patient may not have. Montana Driver Manual, p.40: “You must yield the right-of-way to a police vehicle, fire engine, ambulance, or other emergency vehicle using a siren or air horn and a red or blue flashing light.”

How far from a school bus with flashing red lights must you stop?

At least 30 feet. Children cross in front of and behind the bus, and a car too close cannot be seen by them or the bus driver. Montana Driver Manual, p.40: “Upon meeting or passing from either direction any school bus stopped with its red lights flashing, the driver of a vehicle must stop at least 30 feet from the bus and cannot proceed until the red lights are turned off (Diagrams 1 and 2).”

A school bus ahead is flashing yellow lights. What must you do?

Slow down and proceed carefully. Yellow lights mean the bus is about to stop, and children may already be in the road waiting for it. Montana Driver Manual, p.40: “If you approach a bus from either direction that is slowing down in preparation to stop to load passengers, or a bus displaying a yellow flashing light, you must slow down and proceed carefully.”

Under Montana's definition, how many motor vehicles make up a funeral procession?

2 or more. Without a set meaning, any line of cars could claim the right to go through a red light. Montana Driver Manual, p.42: “By state definition, a funeral procession means two or more motor vehicles, including a funeral lead vehicle and a funeral escort vehicle, one of which is carrying the remains of a deceased person, in the daylight hours (§ 61-1-415, MCA).”

Who may drive between the cars of a moving funeral procession?

A driver a police officer allows. A car squeezing into the line forces mourners following closely to brake hard. Montana Driver Manual, p.42: “The driver of a vehicle that is not part of a funeral procession cannot drive between the vehicles forming the procession while the procession is in motion unless the driver is authorized to do so by a police officer, or is driving an emergency vehicle.”

Once the funeral lead vehicle goes through an intersection, what may the rest of the procession do?

Follow it through, despite the signal. If each car stopped at the light, the procession would be split and lose its way. Montana Driver Manual, p.42: “At the point that the lead vehicle proceeds, others in the procession may follow through the intersection despite any official traffic control device.”

Under Montana law, how are bicycles treated on the road?

As vehicles under the same traffic laws. A driver who treats a cyclist as a toy on the road forgets they have the same right to the lane. Montana Driver Manual, p.42: “Under Montana law, bicycles are considered vehicles and are governed by the same traffic laws that reasonably apply to their operation.”

Where does the law require a bicyclist to ride?

As far to the right as practical. A driver who expects every cyclist on the shoulder is surprised to find one in the lane. Montana Driver Manual, p.43: “Bicyclists are required by law to ride as far to the right as practical.”

What must you do when you see a shared lane marking?

Watch for cyclists and leave room to pass. A sharrow marks a lane cyclists are told to ride in, so a bike is likely right in your path. Montana Driver Manual, p.43: “When you see a shared lane marking, you must look out for bicyclists and make sure that you leave them enough space when passing.”

What does Montana law forbid motorists to do to a person lawfully riding a bicycle?

Interfere with them on purpose. A car that crowds or blocks a rider on purpose can push them into a curb or a ditch. Montana Driver Manual, p.43: “Motorists may not intentionally interfere with the movement of a person lawfully riding a bicycle.”

How must people riding bicycles on a roadway normally ride?

In single file. Riders side by side fill the lane and leave cars no safe way around. Montana Driver Manual, p.43: “Individuals riding bicycles on a roadway must ride in single file except when:”

Why may a slow cyclist leave the right side of the road?

To get ready for a left turn. A driver who thinks a bike must always stay right is caught off guard when it moves left to turn. Montana Driver Manual, p.43: “Bicyclists riding on a roadway at less than the normal speed of traffic must ride as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable except when:”

When coming up behind a cyclist, what should you assume?

They do not hear or see you. A rider who does not know you are there may swerve out around a pothole right into your path. Montana Driver Manual, p.43: “If approaching a bicyclist from behind, assume he/she does not hear or see you in the motorized vehicle.”

At night, how far ahead must a bicycle's front light be visible?

At least 500 feet. A dark bike at night is all but invisible to a driver until it is too late to brake. Montana Driver Manual, p.44: “When used at nighttime, a light on the front, which must emit white light visible for at least 500 feet to the front.”

Which two things should be true of any place you park?

Clear of travel lanes and visible both ways. A car parked just over a hill or half in the lane is hit by a driver who never saw it. Montana Driver Manual, p.44: “Whenever you park your car, be sure it is in a place that is (1) far enough from any travel lane to avoid interfering with traffic and (2) visible to cars approaching from either direction.”

Parked on a roadway at night with your headlights on, how must they be set?

Dimmed. Bright lights from a parked car blind oncoming drivers just as they pass it. Montana Driver Manual, p.45: “If headlights are on, they must be dimmed.”

When you pull up beside the car in front of a parallel space, how far from it should you be?

At least 2 feet. Pulling up too close leaves no room to swing in, and you scrape the other car's side. Montana Driver Manual, p.45: “Position your vehicle parallel with the vehicle parked in front of the empty space and maintain at least two feet from this vehicle.”

You park facing downhill next to a curb. Which way do you turn your wheels?

Toward the curb. A car with straight wheels that slips out of gear rolls down into the street. Montana Driver Manual, p.45: “When you park facing downhill, turn your wheels toward the curb (Figure A).”

What may you do at a curb painted white?

Stop only to pick up or drop off riders. A car left at a white curb blocks the spot others need to drop people off safely. Montana Driver Manual, p.46: “White = stopping only to pick up or unload passengers”

How close to a crosswalk at an intersection may you park?

No closer than 20 feet. A car parked at the corner hides a walker stepping off the curb from turning drivers. Montana Driver Manual, p.46: “Within 20 feet of a crosswalk or sidewalk at an intersection”

Which of these is a place you may not park?

On a bridge or in a tunnel. A stopped car on a bridge or in a tunnel leaves traffic nowhere to go around it. Montana Driver Manual, p.46: “On a bridge or elevated structure or in a tunnel or underpass”

Which vehicles are exempt from Montana's mandatory liability insurance?

Motorcycles. A driver with no insurance who causes a crash leaves the victim to pay for their own injuries. Montana Driver Manual, p.47: “Liability insurance is mandatory (except for motorcycles).”

What is the fine for a first offense of driving without liability insurance?

$250 to $500. The fine is meant to cost more than the insurance, so skipping coverage never pays. Montana Driver Manual, p.47: “Driving a motor vehicle on Montana roads without a valid liability insurance policy is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of at least $250, not to exceed $500, or by imprisonment in the county jail for up to 10 days, or both; and 5 points against your driving record.”

After a court finds you responsible for crash damages, how long do you have to pay before suspension?

60 days. A driver who never pays leaves the person they hurt with the bill for the crash. Montana Driver Manual, p.47: “If you are involved in an accident, your license and registration can be suspended if a court finds you responsible for the damages and you fail to pay the fine within 60 days.”

Which three things does distracted driving take away from the task of driving?

Your eyes, your hands and your mind. A driver can have both hands on the wheel and still crash if their mind is on an argument at home. Montana Driver Manual, p.49: “Distracted driving occurs any time you take your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, and your mind off your primary task of driving safely.”

Why is texting the most alarming driving distraction?

It distracts hands, eyes and mind at once. A texting driver has a hand off the wheel, eyes off the road and mind on the message, all at the same moment. Montana Driver Manual, p.49: “Texting is the most alarming distraction because it involves simultaneous manual, visual, and cognitive distraction.”

What should you do if something needs your attention while you are driving?

Pull over safely to the side and stop. Reaching for a dropped bag at 50 mph pulls your eyes and hands away from the road at the worst time. Montana Driver Manual, p.49: “If there are things you think you need to take care of while you are behind the wheel, wait until you can safely pull over to the side of the road and STOP.”

What should be set before you start the vehicle?

The parking brake. A car that starts with the brake off can roll into the car or person in front of it. Montana Driver Manual, p.50: “Make sure the parking brake is on before you start the vehicle.”

Where should your hands be placed on the steering wheel?

On opposite sides, at 9 and 3 or 8 and 4. Hands bunched at the top of the wheel give poor control, and an airbag going off can throw them into your face. Montana Driver Manual, p.50: “Both hands should be placed on opposite sides of the steering wheel (e.g., at the 9 and 3 o’clock positions or the 8 and 4 o’clock positions of newer vehicles equipped with airbags mounted in the steering wheel).”

What is the best way to control your speed?

Know how fast you are going. Drivers are poor judges of their own speed, and a car can creep 15 mph over the limit without the driver feeling it. Montana Driver Manual, p.51: “The best way to control your speed is to know how fast you are going.”

What does a sudden stop usually point to?

A driver who was not paying attention. A driver who has to slam the brakes usually missed the brake lights or the signal that came seconds earlier. Montana Driver Manual, p.51: “Stopping suddenly is dangerous and usually points to a driver who was not paying attention.”

What does the Montana manual call the single biggest contributor to crashes?

Failing to see what is happening. In many crashes with bikes and people on foot, the driver said they looked but never saw them. Montana Driver Manual, p.51: “The single biggest contributor to crashes is failing to see what is happening.”

What does the manual say about hands-free phone calls while driving?

They still take your attention from driving. A hands-free call still pulls your mind away, so you can look right at a hazard and not notice it. Montana Driver Manual, p.51: “Even with hands-free equipment, talking on a phone or radio takes your attention away from driving, and can make you less likely to notice hazardous situations.”

At least how far ahead, in time, should you look down the road?

10 seconds. A driver who looks only one or two seconds ahead finds the stopped traffic when it is already too close. Montana Driver Manual, p.52: “In order to avoid last-minute braking or the need to turn, you should look down the road at least 10 seconds ahead of your vehicle.”

Which of these does the Montana manual count as an intersection?

A parking lot entrance. A driver who watches only at street corners is caught off guard by a car pulling out of a store lot. Montana Driver Manual, p.53: “Intersections are any place where traffic merges or crosses.”

You are stopped and a parked van blocks your view of the cross street. What should you do?

Edge forward slowly until you see. Moving slowly lets crossing drivers see your front bumper and slow down before you pull fully into their lane. Montana Driver Manual, p.53: “If you were stopped and your view of a cross street is blocked, edge forward slowly until you can see.”

When should you check the traffic behind you more often?

When traffic is heavy. In heavy traffic a tailgater or a fast car can close in behind you in seconds. Montana Driver Manual, p.53: “You need to check more often when traffic is heavy.”

Which of these counts as changing lanes under the Montana manual?

Entering the road from the shoulder. A driver who skips the checks when pulling off the shoulder cuts into traffic just as surely as one swerving lanes. Montana Driver Manual, p.54: “Changing lanes includes: changing from one lane to another, merging onto a roadway from an entrance ramp, and entering the roadway from the curb or shoulder.”

In a shopping center lot, what kind of space should you try to find?

One you can drive through and leave forward. Backing out of a busy lot is where children and other cars slip behind you unseen. Montana Driver Manual, p.55: “Try to do as little backing up as possible.”

Why should you slow down when driving at night?

Your vision is reduced at night. Headlights show only a short stretch of road, and at day speeds you can outrun what they light up. Montana Driver Manual, p.55: “Because vision is reduced at night, drivers cannot see as well at night, so SLOW DOWN.”

When meeting oncoming traffic at night, where should you look?

At the right edge of the road. Staring into bright headlights leaves you half-blind for a moment after the car passes. Montana Driver Manual, p.55: “When meeting traffic at night, avoid looking directly at oncoming headlights. Instead, watch the right edge of the roadway and if an oncoming driver flicks his lights at you, check to be sure you have dimmed yours.”

Why turn on your headlights when you have trouble seeing other road users?

They likely have trouble seeing you too. At dusk a gray car blends into the road, and the driver turning left never sees it coming. Montana Driver Manual, p.56: “Remember to turn on your headlights whenever you have trouble seeing others.”

When there is no immediate danger, how should you use your horn?

With a light tap. A long blast at a cyclist who is just drifting can startle them into a fall. Montana Driver Manual, p.56: “If there is no immediate danger, a light tap on the horn should be all you need.”

Your car is having trouble and you must stop. What should you turn on?

Your emergency flashers. Crashes happen when a driver does not see a stalled car until it is too late to stop. Montana Driver Manual, p.56: “Turn on your emergency flashers to show you are having trouble.”

You are driving just behind and to the side of another car. What should you do?

Speed up or drop back. The driver beside you checks the mirror, sees nothing, and changes lanes right into you. Montana Driver Manual, p.57: “Try to avoid driving on either side and slightly to the rear of another vehicle.”

Which of these moves calls for a turn signal before you make it?

Pulling over to park. A driver who pulls over to park without signaling gives the car behind no warning to slow. Montana Driver Manual, p.58: “merge into traffic, pass on a highway or interstate, or park.”

How do you warn drivers behind you that you will slow where they do not expect it?

Tap the brake pedal 3 or 4 times. Flashing brake lights catch the eye of a driver behind who would otherwise expect you to keep going. Montana Driver Manual, p.58: “If you are going to stop or slow down at a place where another driver does not expect it, tap your brake pedal three or four times quickly to let those behind you know you are about to slow down.”

Compared with stopping at 30 mph, how much distance does stopping at 60 mph take?

Over three times the distance. A driver who doubles their speed and leaves double the room will still run into the car that stops ahead. Montana Driver Manual, p.59: “For example, stopping at 60 mph does not take twice the distance as it takes at 30 mph, but over three times the distance.”

How does stopping on a gravel or dirt road compare with stopping on pavement?

It takes much longer to stop. A driver who brakes on gravel as on pavement slides past the stop sign. Montana Driver Manual, p.59: “You do not have as much traction on gravel and dirt roads as you do on concrete and asphalt roads.”

When should you slow down for a curve?

Before you enter it. Tires already working to turn the car have little grip left, so braking mid-curve sends it sliding. Montana Driver Manual, p.60: “Always slow down before you enter the curve so you do not have to brake in the curve.”

On cold, wet days, which spots on the road are likely to be icy?

Shady spots. A driver who sees dry road in the sun hits a patch of ice under the trees at the same speed. Montana Driver Manual, p.60: “On cold, wet days, shady spots can be icy.”

On a wet road, up to about what speed do most tires keep good traction?

35 mph. A driver who keeps highway speed in the rain may find the tires riding on water instead of road. Montana Driver Manual, p.60: “When the road is wet, most tires have good traction up to about 35 mph.”

What does the manual call the best skid control?

Prevention. Once a car is sliding, the driver has little say; slowing before the bridge is what keeps it straight. Montana Driver Manual, p.60: “The best skid control is prevention.”

At what times should you be especially alert for animals on the road?

At sunrise and sunset. Deer move at dawn and dusk, just when the light is too poor to see them early. Montana Driver Manual, p.61: “Be aware and look for animals, especially at sunrise and sunset.”

When do crashes involving two or more vehicles often happen?

When drivers go faster or slower than others. A car going much faster or slower than the rest keeps closing on someone, and every closing gap is a chance to collide. Montana Driver Manual, p.61: “Crashes involving two or more vehicles often happen when drivers go faster or slower than other vehicles on the road.”

When you merge with traffic, at what speed should you try to enter?

The speed traffic is moving. A car crawling onto the highway forces fast traffic to brake hard or swerve around it. Montana Driver Manual, p.61: “When you merge with traffic, try to enter at the same speed that traffic is moving.”

When leaving a highway by an exit ramp, when should you begin to slow down?

After you move onto the exit ramp. A driver who brakes in the main lane before the ramp gets hit by traffic still moving at highway speed. Montana Driver Manual, p.62: “If the road you are traveling on has exit ramps, signal your intent to exit and do not slow down until you move onto the exit ramp.”

Where are large trucks and small, underpowered cars likely to lose speed?

On long or steep hills. Coming over a rise behind a truck crawling up the grade, a fast driver has seconds to slow. Montana Driver Manual, p.62: “They can lose speed on long or steep hills, and it takes longer for these vehicles to speed up when they enter traffic.”

Why should you lower your speed where people or traffic gather?

To have time to react in a crowded space. In a crowded lot a car backs out and a child steps out at once, and only a slow driver can stop for both. Montana Driver Manual, p.62: “Wherever people or traffic gathers, your room to maneuver is limited.”

At 50 mph on dry pavement, about how far can it take to react and stop?

400 feet. A driver who can see only a few car lengths ahead at 50 mph will reach a hazard before the car can stop. Montana Driver Manual, p.63: “At 50 mph, it can take about 400 feet to react to something you see and bring your vehicle to a stop.”

What should you do if a downpour is so heavy you cannot see well enough to drive?

Pull off in a safe place and wait. Creeping on blind in a downpour leaves you where the next driver cannot see you either. Montana Driver Manual, p.63: “If this happens, pull off the road in a safe place and wait until the weather clears.”

Why should you give parked vehicles as much room as you can?

People may step out from between them. A door swung open into traffic, or a child stepping out between cars, is right in the path of a car hugging them. Montana Driver Manual, p.63: “Give parked vehicles as much room as you can.”

Under the sight distance rule, how many seconds of road ahead should you be able to see?

4 seconds. A driver going faster than they can see ahead meets the hazard before there is time to stop. Montana Driver Manual, p.64: “If you reach the object before you finish saying “four-one-thousand,” you need to slow down.”

Which of these do speed limits take into account?

Side roads and driveways you cannot see. A driver who thinks an empty road means a slow limit is wrong misses the hidden driveway it was set for. Montana Driver Manual, p.64: “They take into account things you cannot see, such as side roads and driveways where people may pull out suddenly, and the amount of traffic that uses the road.”

How many seconds behind the vehicle ahead does the manual's basic following rule call for?

3 seconds. A driver tucked in close behind cannot stop when the car ahead stops suddenly. Montana Driver Manual, p.64: “It is called the “Three-Second Rule,” and it works at any speed.”

When you need more space ahead, what following distance may you need?

4 seconds. On a slick road, three seconds is not enough room to stop when the car ahead brakes. Montana Driver Manual, p.65: “In these situations, you may need a four-second following distance to be safe.”

Why should you leave more space ahead when pulling a trailer?

The extra weight increases stopping distance. A loaded trailer pushes the car forward when you brake, and the usual gap runs out. Montana Driver Manual, p.65: “When you have a heavy load or are pulling a trailer - The extra weight increases your stopping distance.”

How can you help keep the driver behind you at a safe distance?

Keep a steady speed and signal before slowing. A driver who slows with no warning gives the car behind no time to brake. Montana Driver Manual, p.65: “However, you can help keep the driver at a safe distance by keeping a steady speed, and signaling in advance when you must slow down.”

In general, where in your lane is it safest to drive?

In the center of the lane. A car riding the center line leaves no room when an oncoming truck drifts over. Montana Driver Manual, p.65: “In general, it is safest to drive in the center of your lane.”

Driving between parked cars and an oncoming tractor-trailer, where should you leave a little more room?

On the side the truck will pass. Hugging a passing semi to stay clear of parked cars leaves no margin if the truck drifts. Montana Driver Manual, p.66: “However, if one is more dangerous than the other, leave a little more space on the danger side.”

About how large a gap do you need to merge with other traffic?

4 seconds. Squeezing into a short gap leaves both you and the car behind too close to stop. Montana Driver Manual, p.66: “You need a gap of about four seconds anytime you want to merge with other traffic.”

When you cross traffic, how large a gap do you need?

Enough to get all the way across. A car that runs out of gap halfway across is sitting broadside in a traffic lane. Montana Driver Manual, p.66: “When you cross traffic, you need a large enough gap to get all the way across the road without stopping.”

As a general rule, how many vehicles should you pass at a time?

One vehicle. A driver passing a line of cars runs out of road with no gap to pull back into. Montana Driver Manual, p.66: “As a general rule, only pass one vehicle at a time.”

How close to a hill or curve may you be and still start to pass?

No closer than one-third of a mile. A car just over the crest is invisible until it is in your lane. Montana Driver Manual, p.67: “This means you should not start to pass if you are within one-third of a mile of a hill or a curve.”

On which vehicles must the slow-moving vehicle emblem be displayed?

Most farm vehicles. A driver who does not know the emblem comes over a hill at full speed onto a combine. Montana Driver Manual, p.67: “The slow-moving vehicle emblem, a fluorescent or reflective orange triangle, must be displayed on the rear of vehicles drawn by animals, and most farm vehicles and construction equipment.”

Who has the right-of-way when you meet an animal someone is leading or riding?

The animal. A spooked horse can throw its rider into the road in front of you. Montana Driver Manual, p.67: “Always give the right-of-way to an animal that someone is leading, riding, or driving.”

How must horseback riders ride along a road?

Single file near the right edge. Riders spread across the lane force drivers into the oncoming lane to get by. Montana Driver Manual, p.68: “They also must ride single file near the right curb or road edge, or on a usable right shoulder, lane, or path.”

Which of these road users may not be able to see you?

A driver backing out of a parking space. A driver backing out between two vans pulls into your lane without ever seeing you. Montana Driver Manual, p.68: “Anyone who cannot see you may enter your path without knowing you are there.”

What vision does the Montana vision test require in at least one eye?

At least 20/40. A driver who cannot see clearly spots a stopped car or a child on the road far too late to stop. Montana Driver Manual, p.70: “This test measures that you have at least 20/40 vision in at least one eye, with or without corrective lenses.”

If your license says you must wear corrective lenses, when must you wear them?

Every time you drive, even short trips. The quick trip to the store is still on real roads, with real cars that you will not see clearly. Montana Driver Manual, p.70: “Always wear them when you drive, even if it is only to run down to the corner.”

Because you cannot focus on things to your side, what must you also do?

Use side mirrors and glance to the side. A car creeping up beside you stays a blur at the edge of your eye until it is in your lane. Montana Driver Manual, p.70: “Because you cannot focus on things to the side, you also must use your side mirrors and glance to the side if necessary.”

How does hearing help you drive safely, according to the manual?

Sounds like sirens can warn of danger. A driver with loud music may never hear the siren of a fire truck coming through the intersection. Montana Driver Manual, p.70: “The sound of horns, a siren, or screeching tires can warn you of danger.”

How does being tired affect your decisions behind the wheel?

You take longer and decide less well. A tired driver takes an extra moment to brake for a car that stops short, and that moment is the crash. Montana Driver Manual, p.71: “It takes you more time to make decisions and you do not always make good decisions.”

Why are new drivers more affected by alcohol than experienced drivers?

They are still learning to drive. Alcohol is involved in about 40% of fatal crashes, and a new driver has the least skill left over to lose. Montana Driver Manual, p.71: “New drivers are more affected by alcohol than experienced drivers because new drivers are still learning to drive.”

How many alcoholic drinks can affect your driving, according to the manual?

Even 1 drink. There is no number of drinks that leaves a driver untouched, so any plan that counts drinks is a gamble. Montana Driver Manual, p.71: “The best answer is: If you drink alcohol, do not drive.”

How much 80-proof liquor counts as one alcoholic drink?

1-1/2 ounces. A drinker who pours a heavy glass of whiskey and calls it one drink may have had two or three. Montana Driver Manual, p.71: “One alcoholic drink is: 1-1/2 ounces of 80-proof liquor (one shot glass), straight or with a mixer;”

How old must you be to buy or drink alcohol in Montana?

21 years or older. A teen driver who drinks breaks the law before ever starting the car. Montana Driver Manual, p.72: “You are not allowed to buy or consume alcohol unless you are 21 years of age or older.”

What is the fine for a first alcohol conviction in Montana, before court charges?

$300 to $1000. A driver who thinks a first DUI is a small ticket finds out it can cost a thousand dollars or more. Montana Driver Manual, p.72: “If you are found guilty of an alcohol violation and it is your first conviction, you will be fined from $300 to $1000, plus court charges; you could be sentenced to 1 to 60 days in jail; and your license will be suspended for six months.”

How much alcohol must an open container hold to fall under Montana's open-container law?

Any amount. A nearly empty can in the cup holder is still an open container, and a sip from it is one reach away. Montana Driver Manual, p.72: “Montana law also prohibits the possession of an open alcoholic beverage container by a person in a motor vehicle.”

Which container is an exception to Montana's open-container law?

One with its seal unbroken. Without this, a driver carrying a sealed case of beer home from the store would be breaking the law. Montana Driver Manual, p.72: “Containers with an unbroken seal and none of the original contents removed;”

When reporting a suspected drunk driver, what should you tell law enforcement?

The vehicle's description and direction. In Montana half of all traffic deaths are alcohol related, and a quick call can get an officer to the car before it hits someone. Montana Driver Manual, p.72: “All citizens who suspect a person of driving while intoxicated are asked to call their local law enforcement agency or the Montana Highway Patrol and give a description of the vehicle and the direction in which the suspected vehicle is traveling.”

Which kind of medicine does the manual warn can make a driver drowsy?

Medicine for colds or allergies. A driver who takes a cold pill and heads out can be as drowsy as one who has been drinking. Montana Driver Manual, p.73: “Drugs taken for headaches, colds, hay fever or other allergies, or to calm nerves can make a person drowsy and affect their driving.”

If you are not feeling well and need to go somewhere, what does the manual advise?

Let someone else drive. A stiff neck can stop a driver from turning to check the blind spot before changing lanes. Montana Driver Manual, p.73: “If you are not feeling well and need to go somewhere, let someone else drive.”

What does a person with epilepsy need in order to drive?

A physician's written statement. A seizure at the wheel leaves a car moving with no one in control. Montana Driver Manual, p.73: “A person suffering from epilepsy needs a physician to attest in writing that the person’s condition has stabilized and would not likely interfere with a person’s ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.”

What does the manual say to do if you are angry or excited before driving?

Stay off the road until you calm down. An angry driver tailgates, speeds and takes gaps they would never take when calm. Montana Driver Manual, p.73: “If you are angry or excited, give yourself time to cool off.”

According to the manual, how does the loss of vision, hearing and reaction time with age usually develop?

Almost unnoticed. Drivers 65 and over have the highest crash rate per mile after drivers under 24, often because the change crept up on them. Montana Driver Manual, p.74: “Deterioration of vision, hearing, and reaction time develops almost unnoticed until we find ourselves faced with an emergency that we are no longer equipped to handle.”

If your doctor advises you to avoid night driving, what does the manual say to do?

Follow that advice. A driver who ignores the doctor's warning about night driving meets the dark road their eyes can no longer read. Montana Driver Manual, p.74: “If your doctor advises you to avoid heavy or fast traffic or night driving, follow that advice.”

In the self-check for older drivers, how many points applying to you means you should take steps to correct them?

2 or 3. Small warning signs like missed stop signs add up, and ignoring them leaves the problem to show up in a crash. Montana Driver Manual, p.75: “If two or three of the points apply to you, you should take the necessary steps to correct them.”

Your brakes stop working while you drive. What should you try first?

Pump the brake pedal several times. A pedal that has lost pressure can often be brought back with a few quick pumps, before you try anything riskier. Montana Driver Manual, p.77: “Pump the brake pedal several times. This often builds up enough brake pressure to let you stop.”

A tire suddenly goes flat. What should you do with the steering wheel?

Hold it tightly and keep the car going straight. A blowout pulls the car hard to one side, and a loose grip lets it swerve. Montana Driver Manual, p.77: “Hold the steering wheel tightly and keep the vehicle going straight.”

The engine dies while you are driving. What happens to the steering?

It is harder to turn, but still steers. A driver who thinks the wheel has locked may stop steering and drift into another lane. Montana Driver Manual, p.77: “Keep a strong grip on the steering wheel. The steering may be difficult to turn, but you can do it.”

Your headlights suddenly go out at night. What should you try?

Work the switch a few times and try the high beams. A switch that is loose or half-off may bring the lights back after a few tries. Montana Driver Manual, p.77: “Try the headlight switch a few times and turn on the high beams.”

Your gas pedal sticks and the car keeps speeding up. What should you do quickly?

Shift into neutral. In neutral the engine can race but it can no longer push the car faster. Montana Driver Manual, p.77: “Quickly shift to neutral.”

Your right wheels drift off the pavement. What should you do first?

Ease off the gas and steer parallel. Yanking the car back at speed is how drivers shoot across the road into oncoming traffic. Montana Driver Manual, p.78: “Take your foot off the accelerator and steer parallel to the road.”

What three options does the manual give for avoiding a collision?

Stop, turn, or speed up. A driver who freezes because none of the choices comes to mind does nothing at all. Montana Driver Manual, p.78: “In avoiding a collision, drivers have three options: (1) stop, (2) turn, and (3) speed up.”

Your car has ABS and you must stop quickly. How do you use the brake?

Press it as hard as you can and hold it down. ABS keeps the wheels turning so you can steer, but only if your foot stays down hard. Montana Driver Manual, p.78: “Press on the brake pedal as hard as you can and keep pressing on it.”

In most cases, how does turning away compare with stopping?

You can turn away quicker than you can stop. A driver who only thinks of braking may hit something a quick swerve would have missed. Montana Driver Manual, p.78: “In most cases, you can turn the vehicle quicker than you can stop it.”

Your car is about to be hit from the rear. What should you do with your head?

Press it against the head restraint. A head held away from the restraint snaps back hard and the neck takes the blow. Montana Driver Manual, p.79: “Press yourself against the back of your seat and put your head against the head restraint.”

You drive past a crash. When should you stop?

If you are involved or help has not yet come. Cars stopping to stare at a crash cause the next crash behind them. Montana Driver Manual, p.79: “Do not stop at an accident unless you are involved, or emergency help has not arrived yet.”

After a crash, your car can still be driven. What should you do with it?

Get it off the road so it does not block traffic. A wrecked car left in a lane gets hit again by the next driver who comes along. Montana Driver Manual, p.79: “If your vehicle can move, get it off the road so that it does not block traffic.”

When should you move an injured person at a crash?

If a fire or other danger threatens them. Moving a person with a hurt neck or back can make the injury far worse. Montana Driver Manual, p.80: “Do not move the injured unless they are in a burning car or in other immediate danger.”

An injured person is bleeding. What should you do?

Press on the wound with a hand or cloth. Waiting for help while blood flows freely can cost a life before the ambulance comes. Montana Driver Manual, p.80: “If there is bleeding, apply direct pressure directly on the wound with your hand or with a cloth.”

What should you exchange with other drivers involved in a crash?

Name, license, vehicle and insurance info. Without the other driver's insurance and license details, a claim for the damage goes nowhere. Montana Driver Manual, p.80: “Exchange information with other drivers involved in the crash.”

Which lights may a Montana police vehicle use as an emergency signal?

Red, blue or amber flashing lights. A driver who knows only red lights may not pull over for a patrol car showing amber. Montana Driver Manual, p.80: “Police vehicle: Siren and/or red or blue flashing or rotating lights or flashing or rotating amber lights.”

An officer signals you to pull over. How do you show you have seen them?

Turn on your right turn signal. An officer who sees no sign you noticed may think you are trying to get away or are impaired. Montana Driver Manual, p.81: “Acknowledge the officer’s presence by turning on your right turn signal.”

During a traffic stop, when should you get out of your vehicle?

When the officer tells you to. A driver who steps out can be hit by passing traffic and can alarm the officer. Montana Driver Manual, p.81: “Remain inside your vehicle unless otherwise directed by the officer.”

What does Montana's manual call a driver license?

A privilege that can be suspended or revoked. A driver who thinks a license can never be taken away has no reason to obey the law. Montana Driver Manual, p.83: “A license is a privilege and can be suspended, revoked, or cancelled when the driver breaks the law.”

After how many hours awake straight are your driving skills like those of an impaired driver?

18 hours. A driver who has been up since dawn may feel fine at midnight but drives like a drunk one. Montana Driver Manual, p.86: “After being awake for 18 hours straight, driving skills are the same as someone under the influence of drugs or alcohol.”

What does a railroad Emergency Notification System (ENS) sign list?

A phone number and a US DOT number. A driver who sees a stalled car on the tracks needs a quick way to reach the railroad. Montana Driver Manual, p.86: “This is a sign, posted at or near a crossing, which lists a telephone number along with a US DOT number.”

How does vehicle heatstroke happen to a child?

The child is left in a hot vehicle and overheats. Parents who think only careless people forget a child are the ones who skip checking the back seat. Montana Driver Manual, p.86: “Vehicle heatstroke occurs when a child is left in a hot vehicle, allowing for the child’s temperature to rise in a quick and deadly manner.”

Where these come from

Every rule here is checked against Montana Driver Manual, published by the Montana Department of Justice, and against the state code itself. Last checked 2026-10-04.