The issue date on a Montana driver's license is labeled ISS and appears on the front of the card. The Motor Vehicle Division issues licenses valid for 8 years for most adult drivers. Here is where to find ISS and what every field on your Montana license means.

Where to find the issue date on a Montana driver's license

On the current Montana license design, the issue date is labeled ISS and printed on the front of the card. ISS stands for Issue Date and shows when Motor Vehicle Division issued your current card. Renewing your license resets the ISS date on the new card while your license number stays the same.

Date fields on a Montana driver's license

• ISS — Issue date. When your current card was printed.
• DOB — Date of birth. Your birthdate for identity and age verification.
• EXP — Expiration date. Montana driver's licenses are valid for 8 years for most adult drivers.

What does DD mean on a Montana driver's license?

DD stands for Document Discriminator, a unique serial number for each physical card. It changes every time a new card is issued, even if your license number stays the same. Banks, car rental agencies, and identity systems use the DD to confirm the card has not been altered.

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Restrictions on a Montana driver's license

The restrictions field on Montana licenses is labeled RSTR or Restrictions. Common restriction codes:

• A — Corrective lenses required while driving
• B — Daylight driving only
• C — No highway or expressway driving
• E — Automatic transmission only
• F — Outside mirror required on driver's side

Montana REAL ID

Montana offers both standard and REAL ID-compliant licenses. A REAL ID Montana license has a gold star in the upper right corner. From May 7, 2025, a REAL ID or another accepted federal document is required for domestic air travel and certain federal facilities. To get a Montana REAL ID, visit a Montana license office in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and two documents showing your Montana address.

How to renew a Montana driver's license

Montana Motor Vehicle Division offers online renewal at doj.mt.gov/driving for eligible drivers. Montana licenses are valid for 8 years for most adult drivers. In-person renewal is required for first-time REAL ID, new photos, and CDL transactions.

How to find your original Montana licensing date

The ISS date on your card shows when your current card was issued, not your original licensing date. To find your original date, request a copy of your Montana driving record through the Motor Vehicle Division website or in person at a Montana license office.