How to Get a Title for an Abandoned Vehicle in Montana
Montana has a 10–30 days wait period before you can begin the title process. Here is everything a towing company, storage facility, or property owner needs to know.
Quick Reference
Wait Period & Reporting
10–30 days wait required. Wait periods vary by state and whether the vehicle is on public or private property.
Notifying the Owner
Certified mail to last registered owner and lienholder
Notice is required before any abandoned vehicle title can be issued. Contact your state DMV for specific requirements.
Lienholder Rights
Lienholder must be notified and given time to respond
Failure to notify a lienholder properly can void the entire abandoned vehicle title process.
The Title Application Process
Form/Program: Abandoned Vehicle Title Application
Process varies by state. Typically initiated by a towing company, storage facility, or property owner.
Restrictions & Requirements
- Must follow state-specific notice and wait period requirements
- All liens must be resolved before a clean title can issue
- Storage or towing facility typically must be licensed
Montana-Specific Note
Montana-Specific Facts for Abandoned Vehicle Title
Montana Vehicle transfer fees and requirements
In Montana, the title transfer fee is $12 and registration costs Based on vehicle age; ranges from $28 to $217+. Vehicle sales are subject to No sales tax; registration fee based on age and value. Notarization is required for vehicle bill of sale documents in Montana. Montana does not require emission testing for private-party vehicle sales.
- No state sales tax on vehicle purchases
- Notarized title assignment required
- County option fee may apply
- Popular for LLC vehicle registration due to no sales tax
Montana sales tax on vehicle purchases
Montana has a 0% state sales tax rate. No sales tax; registration fees based on vehicle age and value. Private-party vehicle sales in Montana may be exempt from state sales tax. Montana has no state sales tax on any purchases. The title transfer fee is $12.
Montana bill of sale statistics
BillOfSaleNow has generated 301 bill of sale documents for Montana transactions, with 8 generated this month alone. The most popular vehicle type is car.
More Montana Vehicle Guides
- EV Tax Credit in Montana
- Emissions Inspection in Montana
- Extended Warranty Cancellation in Montana
- Fleet Vehicle Sale in Montana
- GAP Insurance Claim in Montana
- Government Surplus Vehicle in Montana
Each guide is written specifically for Montana laws, agencies, and procedures. Bookmark for future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long before a vehicle is considered abandoned in Montana?
Montana requires a 10–30 days wait period. Wait periods vary by state and whether the vehicle is on public or private property.
How do I notify the owner of an abandoned vehicle in Montana?
Certified mail to last registered owner and lienholder. Notice is required before any abandoned vehicle title can be issued. Contact your state DMV for specific requirements.
How much does it cost to get an abandoned vehicle title in Montana?
DMV fees + towing and storage charges. Costs vary widely by state and accumulate with each day in storage.
How long does the abandoned vehicle title process take in Montana?
45–90 days. Process includes wait periods, notice periods, and DMV processing time.
Does Montana require a surety bond for an abandoned vehicle title?
Not for the standard process. Some states require a surety bond if the title history is unclear or the vehicle has a prior out-of-state registration.
Selling the Vehicle After You Get Title?
Create a compliant Montana bill of sale to protect yourself in the transaction.
Generate Bill of SaleSource: State DMV. Abandoned vehicle laws change frequently — verify current wait periods with your state DMV.