How to Get a Driver's License in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

Where to explore for a driver's license in Coeur d'Alene

The Idaho Department of Transportation (ITD) issues all driver's licenses in Idaho. In Coeur d'Alene, you explore at the local ITD Driver Services office, located at 2600 Kathleen Avenue, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815. This is the only place in the city where you can take the written test, vision test, and photo for a new license or renewal.

You do not need an appointment for most transactions, but ITD recommends arriving early because wait times can be long during lunch hours and late afternoon. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and closed on state holidays. You can check current wait times on the ITD website before you go.

Key Takeaways

The ITD Driver Services office at 2600 Kathleen Avenue is the only place in Coeur d'Alene to get a driver's license or take the written and vision tests.
You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number to obtain a license.
A standard driver's license costs $32.50 and is valid for eight years; a Real ID-compliant license costs $37.50 and is required for federal building access after May 2025.
You must pass a written test covering traffic laws and road signs, a vision test, and a driving test before you receive your license.
If you hold a valid license from another state, you may be able to transfer it without retaking the written test, depending on how long you have held it.

Documents you need to bring

Idaho requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number or ITIN. You cannot get a license without all three.

For proof of identity, bring a U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID, a tribal ID, or a certified birth certificate. A school ID or work ID is not enough on its own. If you bring a birth certificate, you must also bring a second form of ID that shows your name and date of birth.

For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a government document (such as a tax return or court order) dated within the last 60 days and showing your current Coeur d'Alene address. A driver's license from another state counts as proof of residency if it is still valid. A post office box does not count.

For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can bring an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) letter from the IRS instead.

Cost and license types

A standard Idaho driver's license costs $32.50 and is valid for eight years. A Real ID-compliant license costs $37.50 and is also valid for eight years. The difference is that a Real ID license meets federal security standards and can be used to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings. Starting May 7, 2025, a standard license will no longer be accepted for these purposes.

If you are 65 or older, a standard license costs $16.25 and a Real ID license costs $18.75. Renewal fees are the same as the initial license fee. Payment is cash, check, or card at the ITD office.

Written test, vision test, and driving test

Before you receive your license, you must pass three tests. The written test covers Idaho traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Idaho Driver's Manual, which is free on the ITD website. The test has 40 questions, and you must answer at least 32 correctly to pass. You get one free retake if you fail; additional retakes cost $5 each.

The vision test checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. You must have at least 20/40 vision in each eye, with or without glasses or contacts. If you wear corrective lenses, you must wear them during the test and your license will be marked with a restriction requiring you to wear them while driving.

The driving test is a 20-minute road test with an ITD examiner. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The test covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and responding to road conditions. You get one free attempt; if you fail, you must pay $10 for each additional test.

Transferring a license from another state

If you hold a valid driver's license from another state and have held it for at least one year, you may be able to transfer it to Idaho without retaking the written test. You will still need to pass the vision test and provide the same documents (proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number).

If you have held your out-of-state license for less than one year, you must take the written test. If your out-of-state license has expired, you must take both the written and driving tests. Bring your out-of-state license with you to the ITD office.

Renewing your license

You can renew your Idaho driver's license up to one year before it expires. If you renew before it expires, you do not need to retake the written or driving tests—only the vision test. You will need to bring proof of identity and proof of residency again.

If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must retake the written test and the driving test, as if you were getting a license for the first time. You will not need to retake the vision test if you have had a recent eye exam, but you will need to bring documentation of that exam.

Special situations and restrictions

If you are under 18, Idaho has additional requirements. You must hold a learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test. A learner's permit costs $10 and allows you to drive only with a licensed adult 21 or older in the front seat. You must also complete a driver education course approved by the state.

If you have certain medical conditions or take medications that affect your ability to drive, you may be required to take a medical evaluation or a more extensive driving test. The ITD office can tell you whether your condition requires this. If you have had your license suspended or revoked, you must complete the reinstatement process before you can drive legally again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online or by mail?

No. Idaho does not offer online or mail renewal for driver's licenses. You must go to the ITD Driver Services office in person. However, you can renew up to one year before your license expires, so you have a wide window to visit.

What if I lost my license or it was stolen?

Go to the ITD office and report it. You will need to pay a replacement fee of $10 and bring proof of identity and residency. You do not need to retake any tests. The office can issue a replacement the same day.

Do I need to take the driving test if I already have a license from another country?

Yes. An international license is not recognized in Idaho. You must take the written test, vision test, and driving test, even if you have been driving for many years in another country. You can bring your international license as an additional form of ID.

How long does it take to get a license after I pass all the tests?

The ITD office prints your license on the spot after you pass the driving test. You will receive it before you leave the office. If you order a Real ID license, it may take a few days to arrive by mail because it requires additional security features.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake it. The first attempt is free, and each additional attempt costs $10. You must wait at least one day before retaking the test. You do not need to retake the written or vision tests unless they have expired.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.