No. Montana law prohibits riding in the back of an unenclosed truck bed unless the vehicle is designed for passenger transport. Violations under MCA 61-9-421 carry fines up to $250, with local jurisdictions like Missoula and Bozeman enforcing stricter ordinances. A 2026 legislative proposal seeks to ban all truck bed riding statewide, pending governor approval.
Key Regulations for Riding in the Back of a Truck in Montana
- MCA 61-9-421 bans riding in truck beds unless the vehicle is equipped with permanent seating and approved restraints.
- Local ordinances in cities like Billings and Great Falls impose additional penalties, including mandatory safety education courses for first-time offenders.
- Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS 207) apply to commercial trucks, requiring enclosed passenger compartments for highway travel.