Montana Permit Test Languages: Testing Options, Translated Manuals and Interpreter Support

Montana permit tests are offered in multiple languages through computer systems and interpreter services. Both pathways help non-English speakers pass the knowledge exam successfully.

What Languages Are Available on Montana Testing Computers?

Always call the Billings MVD to confirm the current test cutoff — the website lags behind schedule changes: One applicant arrived at 3:15 PM based on the website cutoff. The cutoff had moved to 3:00 PM. They were turned away.

• English (primary option)
• Spanish (Espanol)
• Chinese
• Russian

These languages appear directly on your test screen. Select your preferred option when the exam begins.

How Do I Request an Interpreter for My Montana Permit Test?

Montana MVD exam stations can arrange phone interpreter services at no cost for applicants with limited English. Request the interpreter when you schedule your appointment, not on the day of your visit, to ensure the service is confirmed and ready. Montana provides state-approved interpreters for any language not available on computers. Common requests include Arabic, Dari, Tagalog, and Native American languages.

Approved Interpreter Languages

• Arabic
• Dari and Pashto
• Tagalog and Filipino dialects
• Swahili
• German (Deutsch)
• French (Francais)
• Native American Languages (Crow, Blackfeet)
• American Sign Language (ASL)

Scheduling Process

1. Book online: Schedule appointments at mvdmt.gov and request interpreter services during booking
2. Call ahead: Contact your local MVD office at least two weeks before your desired test date
3. Request approval: The exam station manager must pre-approve your specific interpreter
4. Use certified professionals: Family members cannot serve as interpreters
5. Pay interpreter fees: You are responsible for any professional interpretation costs

A Missoula applicant was turned away for bringing their cousin to translate. Check MVD office locations for approved interpreter lists before your appointment.

Montana Driver Manuals in Other Languages

Official translated Montana Driver Manuals are available; the current language list is provided below.

Which Montana Driver Manuals are officially available in other languages?

Montana MVD currently lists official Driver Manuals in English, Spanish, Arabic, Dari, and Swahili. Use the current Forms & Manuals page for the latest versions rather than an older copy from another site. Official manuals: https://mvdmt.gov/forms-driver-license/

Is the language of the Montana Driver Manual the same as the language available on the permit test?

No. The language of an official translated study manual and the language or interpreter support available for the knowledge test are separate issues. Confirm the testing option for your appointment instead of assuming every manual language appears on the testing computer.

Does Montana Offer Audio Assistance During Testing?

Montana MVD exam stations can provide audio assistance for the knowledge test at most locations for applicants with reading difficulties. Request the audio option explicitly at check-in rather than after sitting at the kiosk, as setup requires examiner assistance. Audio support helps applicants who understand spoken English better than written text.

• English audio: Headphones read questions aloud during the test
• Spanish audio: Available at most testing locations
• Text-only options: Chinese and Russian appear on screen without audio

A Dari speaker in Helena studied the Dari manual but required an interpreter for the actual exam, since Dari audio isn't available on computers.

How Does Language Support Differ Between the Knowledge Test and Road Test?

Language support differs between study materials, the knowledge test, and the road test. A translated manual does not automatically mean the same language is available on the testing computer.

For road-test language details, see the dedicated road-test language guidance. Official road-test rule: https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/montana/Mont-Admin-r-23.3.123

Montana Permit Test Format and Passing Score Resources

This page focuses on language access. For question count, passing score, timing, and retakes, use the dedicated Montana permit-test pages rather than duplicating those rules here.

If you complete the Class D application before your visit, the current application is Form 11-1400. See https://mvdmt.gov/forms-driver-license/ for the current form.