Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MT Board of Trades
Carpenter Licensing in Montana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for carpenter in Montana, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Carpenter in Montana
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Montana Department of Labor and Industry • Workers' Compensation Regulation Bureau
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$58,110 median (2% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#27 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Montana
With a median salary of 58,110, Carpenters in Montana earn 2% below the national median of $59,310. Montana ranks #27 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$58,110Hourly estimate
$27.942% below national median
Difference: -$1,200
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCarpenter Salary Ranking
#27 of 50 statesfor Carpenter median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Hawaii | 85,970 |
| #2 | Illinois | 76,410 |
| #3 | California | 74,820 |
| #4 | Washington | 73,260 |
| #5 | Massachusetts | 71,110 |
Nearby States Comparison
Carpenter licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $58,110 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $58,390 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $46,500 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $55,870 | Varies by state board | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Idaho | $48,530 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Idaho | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Montana Department of Labor and Industry • Workers' Compensation Regulation Bureau
1805 Prospect Ave, PO Box 8011, Helena, MT, 59604-8011
Phone: 4064447734
Related Careers in Montana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $68,980 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Elevator Installer | $84,550 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| HVAC Technician | $58,600 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Locksmith | $47,760 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Carpenter in Montana?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Carpenters in Montana?
Montana lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Carpenters.
What education do you need to become a Carpenter in Montana?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Carpenter licensure in Montana.
What is the typical Carpenter salary in Montana?
The median annual salary for Carpenters in Montana is 58,110. Salaries range from $44,670 (10th percentile) to $76,230 (90th percentile).
How does the Carpenter salary in Montana compare to the national average?
Carpenters in Montana earn 2% below the national median of $59,310, with a state median of 58,110.
How many Carpenters work in Montana?
Montana employs approximately 4,240 Carpenters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Carpenter license to Montana from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Carpenters in Montana?
The licensing agency is Montana Department of Labor and Industry / Workers' Compensation Regulation Bureau. Review agency details at https://erd.dli.mt.gov/work-comp-regulations/montana-contractor/construction-contractor-registration.