How to Get and Renew Your Idaho Driver's License

What you need to know about Idaho driver's licenses

An Idaho driver's license is issued by the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) and serves as your legal permission to drive in Idaho and most other states. You can get your first license, renew an expiring one, or replace a lost or damaged card at any ITD office or through their mail-in renewal program if you meet certain conditions.

The process and documents required depend on whether you are getting your first license, renewing an existing one, or replacing one that is lost or damaged. First-time applicants must pass a written test and a driving test. Renewals are simpler if your license is still valid or expired less than five years ago. The entire process typically takes 30 minutes to an hour at an ITD office, though mail-in renewals take one to two weeks.

Key Takeaways

You must visit an ITD office in person for your first license or if your license expired more than five years ago, but renewals can often be done by mail.
Bring proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of Idaho residency (utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or ITIN.
First-time applicants must pass both a written knowledge test and a behind-the-wheel driving test before receiving a license.
Idaho driver's licenses are valid for eight years for adults and four years for drivers under 21.

Getting your first Idaho driver's license

If you have never held an Idaho driver's license, you must visit an ITD office in person. You cannot complete this process by mail. Bring your original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a valid passport, or another government-issued photo ID that proves your identity. You will also need proof that you live in Idaho, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your name and current address.

At the office, you will take a written test covering Idaho traffic laws and road signs. The test has 40 questions, and you must answer at least 32 correctly to pass. After you pass the written test, you will schedule a driving test with an ITD examiner. The driving test checks your ability to handle basic vehicle control, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions. You must pass both tests before your license is issued.

Bring the vehicle you plan to use for the driving test, and make sure it is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will check that all lights, brakes, and wipers work. If the vehicle fails inspection, you cannot take the test that day.

Renewing your Idaho driver's license

If your license is still valid or expired less than five years ago, you can renew by mail without visiting an ITD office. Complete the renewal form (available on the ITD website) and mail it with a check or money order for the renewal fee. The standard renewal fee is $32 for an eight-year license. Mail your completed form to the address listed on the ITD website, and your new license will arrive in one to two weeks.

If you prefer to renew in person, visit any ITD office with your current or expired license and proof of Idaho residency. In-person renewals are processed when ready, and you will receive your new license the same day. You do not need to take any tests to renew unless your license has been suspended or revoked.

If your license expired more than five years ago, you must explore for a new license as if you were a first-time applicant. This means visiting an ITD office, taking the written test, and passing the driving test.

Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license

If your license is lost, stolen, or too damaged to use, you can request a replacement at any ITD office or by mail. For a mail replacement, complete the replacement form on the ITD website and send it with a check or money order for the replacement fee (typically $10 to $15) to the address provided. Your replacement license will arrive in one to two weeks.

If you need your license when ready, visit an ITD office in person. Bring your proof of identity and proof of Idaho residency. The office will issue a temporary paper license on the spot, and your permanent replacement card will arrive by mail within one to two weeks. If your license was stolen, you may also want to report the theft to local police and request a report number, which you can provide to the ITD.

Documents you must bring

The specific documents required depend on your situation, but all applicants must bring proof of identity and proof of Idaho residency. For proof of identity, bring your original or certified birth certificate, a valid U.S. passport, a military ID, a tribal ID, or a state ID from another state. A photocopy is not acceptable for your birth certificate.

For proof of Idaho residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and current Idaho address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have a document in your name, you can bring a document in a spouse's or parent's name along with a marriage certificate or birth certificate proving your relationship.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). If you do not have a Social Security number, bring documentation from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one.

Idaho driver's license validity and renewal timing

An Idaho driver's license is valid for eight years if you are 21 or older, or four years if you are under 21. Your expiration date is printed on the front of your license. You can renew your license up to six months before it expires, so you do not have to wait until the last minute.

The ITD does not send renewal reminders, so mark your expiration date on a calendar or set a phone reminder. Driving with an expired license is illegal, even if you have applied for a renewal. If you are unsure when your license expires, you can check the ITD website by entering your driver's license number and date of birth.

ITD office locations and hours

Idaho has ITD offices in most towns and cities. The main office is in Boise, but you can visit any ITD office in the state to explore for, renew, or replace your license. Office hours vary by location, but most are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Some offices have limited Saturday hours. Check the ITD website for the address, phone number, and hours of the office nearest you.

During busy times, wait times can be 30 minutes to an hour or longer. Arriving early in the day or on a weekday morning typically means shorter waits. Some ITD offices allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can reduce your wait time significantly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Idaho driver's license online?

No, Idaho does not offer online renewal. You can renew by mail if your license is still valid or expired less than five years ago, or you can visit an ITD office in person. Mail renewal takes one to two weeks, while in-person renewal is completed the same day.

What happens if I drive with an expired license?

Driving with an expired license is illegal in Idaho and can result in a traffic citation and fine. If you are pulled over, you may also face additional penalties. Renew your license before it expires, or if it has already expired, visit an ITD office to renew it as soon as possible.

How much does an Idaho driver's license cost?

The cost depends on the type of transaction. A new eight-year license costs around $32, a renewal costs $32, and a replacement for a lost or damaged license costs $10 to $15. Fees may vary slightly, so check the ITD website for current pricing. Fees are paid by check or money order for mail transactions, or by cash, check, or card at ITD offices.

Can I get a Real ID compliant Idaho driver's license?

Yes. A Real ID compliant license has a gold star in the upper right corner and is required for federal air travel and entry to federal buildings. When you explore for a new license or renew, you can request a Real ID compliant license by bringing additional documents, such as proof of citizenship (passport or birth certificate) and proof of Social Security number. The fee is the same as a standard license.

What if I moved to Idaho from another state?

You must obtain an Idaho driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency. Visit an ITD office with your out-of-state license, proof of identity, and proof of Idaho residency. You will not need to take the written or driving test if your out-of-state license is still valid. The ITD will issue your Idaho license and you can surrender your old license.

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.