Citizenship Marker Will Be Added to New Montana Licenses

Beginning January 1, 2026, all driver's licenses issued in Montana will include a mark that shows that you are a legal citizen of the United States.

If you get a new license after the first of the year, expect to see a citizenship marker, an image of an eagle that signifies that the licensee is a U.S. citizen.

Citizenship Marker Will Be Added to New Montana Licenses

The new law, Senate Bill 91 (SB 91) was passed in 2025, and will require driver's licenses and identification cards issued in Montana to include a visual marker indicating legal U.S. citizenship.

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The 2025 Montana Legislature voted to implement a citizenship marker for all qualified Montana residents. This marker shows that you are a legal citizen of the United States. In some cases, you may be asked to bring in additional documentation in order to obtain the citizenship marker.

Even with the new eagle marker, your license still isn’t a REAL ID. It won’t get you through TSA or count as a passport for flying around the U.S., so don’t toss those travel documents just yet.

Supporters say the symbol gives election officials, law enforcement, and agencies a quick, clear way to verify citizenship when it actually matters, like voting or applying for certain benefits. Critics argue it could open the door to discrimination or confusion, especially for legal residents who aren’t citizens.

At the end of the day, the license still works the same for driving, buying beer, or proving who you are. The eagle simply adds one more piece of information the state wants to display.

How do you feel about the new law? Do you think it's a good idea or not? Send me a message on our radio station app and let me know.