Montana RV title transfer guide
Everything you need to buy or sell an RV privately in Montana — sales tax, registration, inspection requirements, and a step-by-step walkthrough.
Sales tax
None
Registration
$28–$220/year
Inspection
Not required
Lemon law
Does not cover RVs
Montana — key facts
Montana has no sales tax and is the most popular state for LLC-based RV registration to avoid sales tax elsewhere. However, this practice may be challenged by your home state's tax authority. Permanent registration available for older RVs.
Requirements at a glance
Private RV sale in Montana — step by step
Agree on price and arrange an inspection
Look up the RV on NADA Guides and compare active listings on RV Trader for Montana and nearby states. Budget for a certified inspection ($300–$600) — it's the best money you'll spend on a used RV.
Run a VIN check
Order a CARFAX or NMVTIS report on the VIN. Confirm there are no active liens, no salvage/rebuilt title history, and no odometer rollback flags. The VIN on the dash must match the title.
Complete a Montana bill of sale
Include: both parties' full names and addresses, make, model, year, VIN, odometer, sale price, date, and an as-is clause. Both parties sign. Montana requires a bill of sale to transfer title. Keep a copy for your records.
Complete the odometer disclosure
Federal law requires odometer disclosure for vehicles under 16,000 lbs GVWR. Many states, including Montana, require it for heavier vehicles as well. The seller certifies the odometer reading on the title or a separate disclosure form.
Seller signs over the title
The seller completes the assignment section on the back of the title: buyer's name, sale price, date, and odometer (if applicable). Both parties typically sign. Do not accept a blank signed title or a title with alterations.
Visit the Montana DMV
Bring: signed title, bill of sale, proof of insurance, and a valid ID. Pay the title transfer fee and no sales tax (Montana has no state sales tax). Apply for a new title in your name.
Register the RV and get plates
Registration fees in Montana run approximately $28–$220/year. You'll receive new plates and a registration certificate. The registration is annual unless you qualify for a multi-year or permanent option.
Get RV insurance
Most states require proof of liability insurance to register. Get a dedicated RV policy (not your auto policy) before driving the unit home. Good Sam and Progressive both specialize in RV coverage.
Montana RV sale — frequently asked questions
Is there sales tax on a private RV sale in Montana?
No. Montana has no state sales tax, so a private RV sale isn't taxed at the state level.
Do I need a bill of sale to sell an RV privately in Montana?
Yes — Montana requires a bill of sale to complete the title transfer. It should list both parties' names and addresses, the VIN, sale price, date, and an as-is clause.
Does Montana require a safety inspection before titling an RV?
No — Montana does not require a safety inspection for private RV sales.
How much does RV registration cost in Montana?
Registration in Montana runs $28–$220/year, billed annually unless you qualify for a multi-year option. This is separate from any one-time sales tax due at titling.
Does Montana's lemon law cover RVs?
No — like most states, Montana's lemon law does not cover RVs. Private sales are as-is; a pre-purchase inspection is your main protection.
Trusted resources
Insurance
Good Sam RV Insurance
Specialized RV coverage with roadside assistance and full-timer policies.
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Insurance
Progressive RV Insurance
Competitive rates and multi-policy discounts for RV owners.
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Financing
LightStream RV Loans
Low fixed rates, no fees, same-day funding. Pre-qualify before you shop.
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Marketplace
RV Trader
Research comps or list your unit on the largest RV marketplace.
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