Where to go for your driver's license in Boise

The Idaho Department of Transportation (ITD) issues driver's licenses in Boise at the main office located at 3311 W State Street. This is the only full-service location in the city where you can take the written test, vision test, and photo for a new license or renewal. You can walk in without an appointment, though wait times vary by time of day and day of week — mornings on weekdays tend to be shorter than afternoons or Saturdays.

ITD also operates a smaller office at 2470 E Beltline Road, but this location handles renewals and replacements only, not new licenses. If you are getting your first license or need to upgrade from a learner's permit, you must go to the W State Street location.

Hours at both locations are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The office is closed Sundays and state holidays. You can check current wait times on the ITD website before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • The main ITD office at 3311 W State Street in Boise is the only location where you can take your written and vision tests for a new license.
  • You will need a valid form of ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN to complete your process.
  • New licenses cost $75 and are valid for eight years; renewals cost $75 and extend your license for eight more years.
  • You can renew by mail if your license is not expired and you have not had violations or address changes, but most people renew in person at the office.
  • If you are under 21, you will receive a different-colored license with restrictions on when you can drive, and you must pass a knowledge test before the road test.

What documents you need to bring

Idaho requires you to bring three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN. For identity, bring a valid passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate. A school ID or work ID alone is not enough.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current Boise address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a notarized affidavit of residency, though this takes extra time.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number or ITIN. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, or be ready to state the number. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get an Idaho driver's license, but you will need to bring additional documentation proving your immigration status.

The steps to get a new license

Step 1: Fill out the process. At the ITD office, ask for form DL-44 (process for Driver's License). You can also read and print it from the ITD website before you go, which saves time. Fill it out completely with your legal name, date of birth, and current address.

Step 2: Pass the vision test. An ITD staff member will check your vision using a machine. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. If you fail, you may be able to retake it the same day, or you may need to see an eye doctor and return with a vision report.

Step 3: Take the written knowledge test. You will answer 40 multiple-choice questions about Idaho traffic laws and road signs. You must score at least 80 percent to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at no extra charge. Study materials are available on the ITD website and in the office.

Step 4: Take the road test (new drivers only). If you are getting your first license, you must pass a road test with an ITD examiner. You will drive for about 20 minutes on city streets and highways. You need to bring a vehicle that is registered and insured. If you fail, you can schedule another test, usually within a few days.

Step 5: Have your photo taken and pay the fee. Once you pass all tests, ITD will take your photo and process your payment. New licenses cost $75. You will receive a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Renewing your license by mail or in person

If your license is not yet expired and you have had no violations or address changes, you can renew by mail. Request a renewal form from the ITD website or call 208-334-8736. Fill it out, include a check or money order for $75, and mail it to the address on the form. Your new license will arrive by mail in about two weeks.

Most people renew in person at the office instead, because it takes only 10 to 15 minutes and you leave with a temporary license the same day. Bring your current license, proof of residency if your address has changed, and payment. You will not need to retake the written or vision test unless your license has been expired for more than one year or you have had a violation.

If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must treat it as a new license and repeat all the steps above, including the written and vision tests. You do not need to take the road test again unless you let it expire for more than five years.

Special rules for drivers under 21

Idaho issues a different license to drivers under 21, marked with a vertical orientation and a red stripe. This license comes with restrictions: you cannot drive between midnight and 5:00 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work, school, or a medical appointment. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free.

Before you can take the road test, you must hold a learner's permit for at least six months and be at least 14 years old. During that time, you must drive with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old. When you turn 17, you can take the road test and move to the restricted license. When you turn 21, you can renew to a standard license with no restrictions.

What happens if your license is lost or stolen

If your license is lost or stolen, go to the ITD office and ask for a replacement. Bring your ID and proof of residency. You will have your photo taken again and pay $25 for the replacement card. You will receive a temporary license when ready and the plastic card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

If your license was stolen, you may also want to report it to local police, though this is not required to get a replacement. Some people do this to protect themselves in case someone uses the stolen license fraudulently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online instead of at the office?

No. Idaho requires you to take the written test in person at an ITD office. You cannot take it online or by mail. However, you can study the test materials online before you go, which improves your chances of passing on the first try.

What if I fail the road test?

You can schedule another road test, usually within a few days. There is no extra fee for retakes. You do not need to retake the written or vision test. Bring the same vehicle and documents you brought the first time.

How long does a new license take to arrive by mail?

Your plastic license card arrives within 7 to 10 business days. You receive a temporary paper license the same day you pass your tests, and you can use that to drive legally while you wait for the card.

Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?

You can walk in without an appointment. Wait times vary, but the office is open Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Mornings on weekdays are usually less crowded than afternoons.

What if my address changed but my license is not expired yet?

You can update your address by mail for free, or you can go to the office and pay $25 for a replacement card with the new address. If you renew in person, the new address is included at no extra charge.