Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MT Board of Public Safety
Police Officer Licensing in Montana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for police officer in Montana, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Police Officer in Montana
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Administration • Division of Banking and Financial Institutions
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$69,910 median (8% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#29 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Montana eligibility requirements for Police Officer licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Administration~Division of Banking and Financial Institutions and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Montana
With a median salary of $69,910, Police Officers in Montana earn 8% below the national median of $76,290. Montana ranks #29 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,173Median annual salary
$69,910Hourly estimate
$33.618% below national median
Difference: -$6,380
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPolice Officer Salary Ranking
#29 of 50 statesfor Police Officer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $115,400 |
| #2 | Washington | $102,640 |
| #3 | Illinois | $101,530 |
| #4 | Alaska | $100,300 |
| #5 | Colorado | $96,100 |
Nearby States Comparison
Police Officer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $69,910 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $75,530 | Specific course required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $60,300 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $65,180 | Specific course required | State exam required | 1-3 years |
| Idaho | $66,150 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
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 | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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 | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Administration • Division of Banking and Financial Institutions
301 South Park , Suite 316, PO Box 200546, Helena, MT, 59620-0546
Phone: 4068412920
Related Careers in Montana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $49,700 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Firefighter | $64,020 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Security Guards | $38,300 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Police Officer in Montana?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Police Officer salary in Montana?
The median annual salary for Police Officers in Montana is $69,910. Salaries range from $51,820 (10th percentile) to $88,090 (90th percentile).
How does the Police Officer salary in Montana compare to the national average?
Police Officers in Montana earn 8% below the national median of $76,290, with a state median of $69,910.
How many Police Officers work in Montana?
Montana employs approximately 2,020 Police Officers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Police Officer license to Montana from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Police Officers in Montana?
The licensing agency is Department of Administration / Division of Banking and Financial Institutions. Review agency details at http://banking.mt.gov/.
How often do you renew a Police Officer license in Montana?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.