Where to get your driver's license in Idaho Falls

In Idaho Falls, you obtain your driver's license through the Idaho Department of Transportation (ITD). The main office is located at 1800 Sunnyside Road, Idaho Falls, ID 83402. This is the only place in Idaho Falls where you can take the written test, vision test, and photo for a new license or renewal.

You can also renew your license by mail or online if you meet certain conditions — your license must not be expired by more than five years, you must be between 21 and 65 years old, and you cannot have any medical restrictions or changes to your information. The ITD website lists the exact renewal options available to you based on your current license status.

If you need to replace a lost or stolen license, you can request a duplicate in person at the ITD office or by mail. A duplicate costs less than a new license and arrives within two to three weeks if you mail the request.

Key Takeaways

  • The Idaho Falls ITD office at 1800 Sunnyside Road is where you take your written and vision tests and have your photo taken for a new license.
  • You need a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN to obtain a license.
  • The written test covers traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the free Idaho Driver's Manual available on the ITD website.
  • First-time drivers under 18 must complete a driver education course and hold a learner's permit for at least six months before taking the driving test.
  • License fees vary by type and duration; the ITD website shows current fees for standard licenses, commercial licenses, and renewals.

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 proof of identity, you can use a passport, birth certificate, military ID, or tribal ID. A school ID or work ID alone is not sufficient.

Proof of residency means a document showing your current Idaho Falls address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. A driver's license from another state does not count as proof of residency.

Bring your original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the legal document that shows the change.

The written test and what it covers

The written test has 40 questions about Idaho traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass. The test is given on a computer at the ITD office, and you receive your score when ready.

The Idaho Driver's Manual, available free on the ITD website, covers all the material on the test. Most people study the manual for one to two weeks before taking the test. You can take the test as many times as you need, but you must wait one day between attempts if you fail.

The test is offered in English and several other languages. If you need the test in a language other than English, call the Idaho Falls ITD office ahead of time to confirm availability.

Vision and road tests

After you pass the written test, you take a vision screening at the ITD office. The vision test checks whether you can see clearly enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you must see an eye doctor and bring a signed statement from the doctor before you can retake it.

The road test is a separate appointment where an examiner rides with you in your vehicle while you demonstrate basic driving skills. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The road test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes and covers starting, stopping, turning, parking, and following traffic laws. You can schedule the road test after you pass the written test.

First-time drivers under 18 must hold a learner's permit for at least six months and complete a driver education course before they can take the road test. Drivers 18 and older can take the road test without a learner's permit period, but they still must pass the written and vision tests first.

Fees and how long the process takes

The cost of a new driver's license in Idaho varies depending on the type and how long you want it to be valid. A standard four-year license costs one amount; an eight-year license costs more. Commercial licenses and endorsements (such as for motorcycles or hazardous materials) have different fees. Check the ITD website for the exact current fees.

The timeline depends on whether you are renewing by mail, renewing online, or obtaining a new license in person. A new license obtained in person is issued the same day you pass all tests. A mailed renewal typically arrives within two to three weeks. An online renewal is processed within a few days, and your license is mailed to you.

If you need your license urgently and cannot wait for mail delivery, you must go to the ITD office in person. There is no expedited mail option, but the in-person process is same-day.

Learner's permit requirements for drivers under 18

If you are under 18, you must first obtain a learner's permit before you can take the road test. To get a learner's permit, you pass the written test and vision test at the ITD office. You do not take a road test for the permit.

Once you have a learner's permit, you must hold it for at least six months before you can take the road test for a full license. During this time, you must drive only with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old sitting next to you. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m.

You must also complete a driver education course approved by the state of Idaho. Many high schools in Idaho Falls offer this course, or you can take it through a private driving school. The course covers classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. Once you complete the course and have held your permit for six months, you can schedule your road test.

Renewing or replacing your license

If your license is still valid and you are between 21 and 65 years old with no medical restrictions, you can renew by mail or online. To renew by mail, you fill out the renewal form, include your current license, and mail it to the address shown on the ITD website. To renew online, you log into your account on the ITD website and follow the steps.

If your license has expired by more than five years, you must go to the ITD office in person and retake the written and vision tests. If you are over 65 or have medical restrictions, you may also need to visit in person.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a duplicate. A duplicate has the same information and expiration date as your current license. You can request a duplicate by mail or in person at the ITD office. The cost is lower than a new license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or from home?

No. The written test must be taken in person at the Idaho Falls ITD office. You cannot take it online or by mail. However, you can study the Idaho Driver's Manual online before you go to the office.

What happens if I fail the written test?

You can retake the written test, but you must wait at least one day before your next attempt. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. Each attempt has a fee, so studying the manual thoroughly before your first attempt saves money.

Do I need a Social Security number to get a driver's license?

You need either a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you do not have either, bring documentation of your process for one. Bring the original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.

How long does a driver's license last in Idaho?

A standard driver's license is valid for four years. You can also choose an eight-year license, which costs more but lasts longer. Licenses for drivers over 65 may have different expiration periods. Check your license to see your expiration date.

Can I change my address on my license without going to the ITD office?

You can change your address online through the ITD website if your license is still valid. If you need a new photo or your license is expired, you must visit the ITD office in person.