Is Weigh Stations Legal in Montana? (2026)
It depends. In Montana, weigh stations is restricted. Montana can require trucks and commercial vehicles of at least 26,000 pounds GVW to enter weigh stations, with separate portable-scale rules and bypass restrictions..
Key facts
- Status
- Restricted
- Permit required
- No
- Jurisdiction
- Montana
- Last reviewed
- 2026-04-09
Weigh Stations laws in Montana
Montana Code section 61-10-141 allows MDT to require trucks and commercial motor vehicles of 26,000 pounds GVW or greater to enter weigh stations, except trucks exempted by administrative rule. Vehicles over 10,000 pounds may be inspected by portable-scale crews at engineered sites, subject to administrative exemptions. Authorized officers may require covered vehicles to drive to stationary scales or an engineered portable-scale site within two miles. MDT’s trucker handbook describes an exemption for recreational vehicles, travel trailers and motor homes not traveling into or through Montana for delivery to a distributor or dealer, subject to its commerce qualification. Its bypass guidance permits enrolled PrePass and DriveWyze carriers to follow in-cab signals at participating sites, but requires entry despite a bypass signal for overweight loads, width greater than 10 feet, height greater than 15 feet 6 inches, length greater than 110 feet, or oversize loads without a valid permit. The cited statute delegates other exemptions to administrative rules; this summary is not their complete enumeration.
Frequently asked questions
Is weigh stations legal in Montana for travelers?
For travelers visiting Montana, weigh stations is currently restricted. Montana Code section 61-10-141 allows MDT to require trucks and commercial motor vehicles of 26,000 pounds GVW or greater to enter weigh stations, except trucks exempted by administrative rule. Vehicles over 10,000 pounds may be inspected by portable-scale crews at engineered sites, subject to administrative exemptions. Authorized officers may require covered vehicles to drive to stationary scales or an engineered portable-scale site within two miles. MDT’s trucker handbook describes an exemption for recreational vehicles, travel trailers and motor homes not traveling into or through Montana for delivery to a distributor or dealer, subject to its commerce qualification. Its bypass guidance permits enrolled PrePass and DriveWyze carriers to follow in-cab signals at participating sites, but requires entry despite a bypass signal for overweight loads, width greater than 10 feet, height greater than 15 feet 6 inches, length greater than 110 feet, or oversize loads without a valid permit. The cited statute delegates other exemptions to administrative rules; this summary is not their complete enumeration.
Do I need a permit for weigh stations in Montana?
Montana does not specifically require a permit for weigh stations, though general regulations apply.
Can I transport weigh stations through Montana?
Transport laws for weigh stations in Montana depend on the specific item and your route. Generally, transport is allowed if you comply with state regulations. Always check states you pass through.
What are the penalties for weigh stations violations in Montana?
Penalties for weigh stations violations in Montana vary based on the specific offense. Always verify current laws before traveling.