Language

English is by far the dominant language in Montana. The residents have almost no accent, making them easy to understand.

Currency

The sole currency used in Montana is the US dollar (US $). Banknotes come in denominations of US $1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100. There are 100 cents to one dollar with coins available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, and 25 cent pieces. To exchange foreign currency, you need to visit a large bank branch in one of the big cities like Billings or Missoula. Travelers’ checks should also be cashed at banks, which is where ATMs are readily available. Credit cards like MasterCard and Visa are accepted in every business of size.

Time

Montana is in the Mountain Time Zone (GMT -7, GMT -6 between March 12 and November 4 during Daylight Savings).

Electricity

Montana, and the rest of America, uses electricity at 110-120 V/60 Hz. Flat two-prong plugs are typical, so it is recommended that you bring a universal plug adapter if you are coming from Europe or Asia. A transformer may also be necessary.

Communications

The dialing code for the United States is +1, and the area code for the entire state of Montana is 406. Mobile coverage is limited to areas around towns because Montana has many vast areas of wilderness. Internet access is easy to find in the main cities like Missoula, Whitefish and Billings, but rare in small rural hamlets.

Duty-free

Every visitor to the United States who is over the age of 18 is allowed to carry one liter of alcohol, 200 cigarettes (or 50 non-Cuban cigars or two kilograms of tobacco), and gifts valued up to US $400 without paying tax.

Tourist Office

Montana Office of Tourism: PO Box 200533, Helena, MT 59620 +1-800-847-4868 or http://www.visitmt.com/.

Consulates in Montana

Canadian Consulate General, Denver: +1-303-626-0640
German Consulate General, San Francisco: +1-415-775-1061
Netherlands Consulate General, San Francisco: +1-877-388-2443
French Consulate General, Hamilton: +1-406-961-4042
Australian Consulate General, San Francisco: +1-415-644-3620
British Consulate General, San Francisco: +1-415-617-1300

Emergency

Emergency services: 911