Where to go for your Bonner County driver's license

In Bonner County, you get your driver's license through the Idaho Department of Transportation (ITD). The main office is located in Sandpoint, and that is where most people go to explore for a new license, renew an existing one, or replace a lost or damaged card. ITD also has an office in Priest River if that location is more convenient for you.

You cannot get a Bonner County driver's license at a local DMV-style office — Idaho does not have separate county DMV branches. The ITD office serves the entire county and handles all license transactions. You can call ahead to ask about wait times or to confirm which documents you need to bring, but you will need to visit in person to complete your process.

Key Takeaways

  • The Idaho Department of Transportation (ITD) office in Sandpoint is where Bonner County residents get driver's licenses, and you must explore in person.
  • You will need to bring a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number to explore for a new license.
  • A standard Idaho driver's license is valid for four years, and renewal can be done in person or by mail if your license is not suspended or revoked.
  • The cost of a new license or renewal varies depending on the type of license and whether you choose a standard or enhanced version.

What documents you need to bring

Before you go to the ITD office, gather three categories of documents. First, bring a valid form of identification — this can be a passport, military ID, or another government-issued ID that shows your photo and date of birth. Second, bring proof that you live in Bonner County. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax notice all work, as long as it shows your current address and is dated within the last 60 days.

Third, bring proof of your Social Security number. You can bring your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a 1099 form. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a letter from your employer or bank that shows your Social Security number. The ITD office staff can tell you over the phone whether a specific document will work if you are unsure.

The steps to explore for a new license

When you arrive at the ITD office in Sandpoint, you will check in and wait to be called. Bring all your documents with you. When it is your turn, the staff member will review your identification, residency, and Social Security proof. They will ask you questions to confirm your legal name, date of birth, and address.

Next, you will take a written test on Idaho traffic laws and road signs. The test has 40 questions, and you need to answer at least 32 correctly to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another time. After you pass the written test, you will have your photo taken for the license card. You will also pay the fee for your license at this time. A standard four-year license costs a set amount that varies slightly depending on whether you are a new driver or renewing.

Your new license will be mailed to your address within one to two weeks. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use while you wait for the card to arrive.

How to renew your license by mail

If your license is not suspended or revoked and you have not had any major changes to your information, you may be able to renew by mail instead of visiting the office in person. You will need to send the ITD a completed renewal form, your current license card, and the renewal fee. The form is available on the ITD website or you can call the Sandpoint office to request one by mail.

Mail your documents to the address provided on the form. Processing takes about two weeks, and your new license will be mailed to you. This option saves you a trip to Sandpoint, but it is only available if you meet the renewal requirements — the ITD will let you know if you are not may be able to access when you contact them.

License types and costs

Idaho offers a standard driver's license and an enhanced driver's license. The standard license allows you to drive in the United States and is valid for four years. The enhanced license costs more but allows you to cross the border into Canada and Mexico by land without a passport — it is also valid for four years.

There is also a Real ID-compliant license, which meets federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. Most people now get the Real ID version automatically when they renew or explore for a new license. The cost difference between a standard and Real ID license is small. If you need to drive commercially, you will need a commercial driver's license (CDL), which requires a separate process and testing process at the ITD office.

What to do if your license is lost or damaged

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, go to the ITD office in Sandpoint with your identification and proof of residency. You will fill out a replacement form and pay a replacement fee, which is less than the cost of a new license. Your replacement card will be mailed to you within one to two weeks, and you will receive a temporary paper license to use in the meantime.

If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to local police or the Bonner County Sheriff's Office. This creates a record in case someone tries to use your license number fraudulently. Bring the police report number with you to the ITD office if you have one — it is not required, but it can help document what happened.

Contact information and office hours

The ITD office in Sandpoint is located at 1957 North Division Avenue, Sandpoint, ID 83864. You can call them at (208) 263-5615 to ask questions about documents, fees, or wait times before you visit. The office is open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though hours may vary seasonally. The Priest River office is smaller and handles fewer transactions, so calling ahead is especially important if you plan to go there.

You can also find information about Idaho driver's licenses on the ITD website, including the written test study guide, current fees, and forms you may need. The website has a link to schedule an appointment at some ITD offices, though availability in Bonner County may be limited.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online?

No, Idaho does not offer online renewal for driver's licenses. You can renew by mail if you meet the requirements, or you can renew in person at the ITD office in Sandpoint. Call the office to learn about you are may be able to access for mail renewal before you visit.

How long does it take to get a new license after I explore?

Your new license card will be mailed to you within one to two weeks after you explore. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use to drive while you wait for the card to arrive in the mail.

What if I moved to Bonner County from another state?

You will need to get an Idaho license within 30 days of moving to the state. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of residency in Bonner County, and proof of your Social Security number to the ITD office. You will take the written test and have your photo taken, just like a new applicant.

Do I need an appointment to get my license?

Appointments are not always required at the Sandpoint office, but you can call ahead to ask about wait times. Some ITD offices in Idaho allow you to schedule an appointment online, but availability may be limited in Bonner County. Calling first can help you plan your visit.

What happens if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test the same day or come back another time. There is no waiting period between attempts. You will need to pay a fee each time you take the test. The ITD office can give you study materials to help you prepare before you retake it.