What You Need to Do to Get an Idaho Driver's License

To get an Idaho driver's license, you will need to pass a written test on traffic laws, pass a driving test, and provide proof of identity and residency. The process takes place at your local Idaho Department of Transportation (ITD) office. Most people complete the written test on their first visit, then schedule a separate appointment for the driving test within a few weeks. You cannot get a license without both tests passing.

Idaho issues licenses to people age 16 and older. If you are under 18, the rules are stricter — you must hold a permit for at least six months before taking the driving test, and you cannot drive alone until you turn 17. If you are 18 or older, you can skip the permit stage and go straight to the written and driving tests.

Key Takeaways

  • You must pass a written test on Idaho traffic laws and a separate driving test at an ITD office before receiving a license.
  • Bring a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current Idaho address to your first appointment.
  • The written test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices; you can study using the free Idaho Driver's Manual online.
  • The driving test lasts about 30 minutes and tests basic vehicle control, parking, and your ability to follow traffic laws on public roads.
  • If you are under 18, you must hold a learner's permit for six months before taking the driving test.

Documents You Need to Bring to the ITD Office

Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work. You need proof of identity (a birth certificate, U.S. passport, or passport card), proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form), and proof of your current Idaho address (a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).

If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport and proof of lawful presence, such as a green card or visa. Idaho ITD staff will make copies of your documents at the office, so you do not need to bring copies yourself.

Passing the Written Test on Your First Visit

The written test has 40 questions and covers Idaho traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass. The test is taken on a computer at the ITD office and takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

You can study for free using the Idaho Driver's Manual, which is available on the ITD website. The manual covers everything on the test. Many people read through it once and take practice tests online before their appointment. If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or come back another day at no extra cost.

Scheduling and Taking the Driving Test

After you pass the written test, ITD staff will help you schedule a driving test appointment. Most offices have openings within two to four weeks. You will take the test in your own vehicle or a vehicle provided by the testing office, depending on the location. Bring your learner's permit (if you are under 18) or your written test receipt to the driving test appointment.

The driving test lasts about 30 minutes and includes basic vehicle control (starting, stopping, turning), parking in a straight space and at an angle, and driving on public roads while following traffic laws. The examiner will ask you to perform specific maneuvers and will watch how you handle intersections, lane changes, and pedestrian situations. You must pass this test to receive your license. If you fail, you can retake it, usually within a few days or weeks depending on the office's schedule.

What Happens After You Pass Both Tests

Once you pass the driving test, ITD will issue your license the same day or within a few business days. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office, and your plastic card will arrive by mail within one to two weeks. The temporary license is valid for driving while you wait for the card.

Your Idaho driver's license is valid for eight years if you are 21 or older, and four years if you are under 21. You will need to renew it before the expiration date shown on your license. Idaho also allows you to renew online or by mail if you have not had any violations or address changes.

Special Rules if You Are Under 18

If you are under 18, you must first get a learner's permit before taking the driving test. To get a permit, you pass the written test at an ITD office (same test as adults). Once you have the permit, you must wait at least six months before you can take the driving test. During those six months, you can only drive with a licensed adult age 21 or older in the front seat.

After you pass the driving test and receive your license, you still have restrictions until age 17. You cannot drive alone between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot use a cell phone while driving (except in emergencies). These restrictions lift on your 17th birthday.

Finding Your Local ITD Office and Making an Appointment

Idaho has ITD offices in most towns and cities. You can find the office nearest you and check their hours on the ITD website. Some offices accept walk-ins for the written test, but many require an appointment. Call ahead or check online to see whether your local office takes walk-ins or if you need to book a time slot.

If your local office is far away or has a long wait, you can visit any ITD office in the state — you do not have to use the one closest to your home. Some smaller offices have shorter wait times than larger ones in cities. Plan to spend about one to two hours at the office for your first visit (written test), and about 45 minutes for the driving test appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online from home?

No. The written test must be taken in person at an ITD office on a computer provided by the office. You cannot take it remotely or on your own device.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test. Most offices let you schedule another appointment within a few days or weeks. There is no extra fee for retaking the test. You do not need to retake the written test unless your permit or test receipt has expired.

Do I need to bring my own car for the driving test?

You can bring your own vehicle, or some ITD offices provide a test vehicle. Call your local office ahead of time to ask which option is available. If you use your own car, it must be in safe working condition and have valid registration and insurance.

How much does an Idaho driver's license cost?

The fee varies depending on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard eight-year license for adults costs around $75 to $85. A four-year license for people under 21 costs less. Check the ITD website or call your local office for the exact current fee.

What if I moved to Idaho from another state?

You must get an Idaho license within 30 days of moving to the state. If you already have a valid license from another state, you can exchange it for an Idaho license without retaking the tests at some offices — call ahead to ask. If your out-of-state license has expired, you will need to take both the written and driving tests.