What you need to know about getting an Idaho driver license

An Idaho driver license is issued by the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) and serves as your legal permission to drive in Idaho and most other states. You will need to pass a written test on traffic laws, a vision screening, and a driving test before you receive your license. The entire process typically takes a few weeks from start to finish, though you can get a temporary permit to drive while waiting for your full license.

Idaho issues licenses to people age 14 and older, with different rules depending on your age. If you are under 18, you will go through a graduated licensing system that starts with a permit, moves to an intermediate license with restrictions, and then becomes a full license. If you are 18 or older, you can move more directly to a full license after passing the required tests.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit an ITD office in person with proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number to begin the process.
  • All first-time applicants must pass a written knowledge test, vision screening, and driving test before receiving a license.
  • Drivers under 18 start with a permit and must hold it for at least 6 months before taking the driving test for an intermediate license.
  • The written test covers Idaho traffic laws and safe driving practices; you can study using the official ITD driver manual available online.
  • Your license is valid for 8 years if you are 21 or older, and 4 years if you are under 21.

Documents you need to bring to the ITD office

Before you visit an ITD office, gather the documents that prove who you are, where you live, and your Social Security number. These three categories are required for every applicant.

For proof of identity, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a valid U.S. passport, a military ID, or a tribal ID card. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport and visa or green card. A school ID or work ID alone will not work as proof of identity.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax notice that shows your current Idaho address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement or insurance bill also works. If you do not have a document in your name, you can bring a letter from your landlord or a family member who lives with you, along with their proof of residency.

For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card or a document that displays it, such as a W-2 form or tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a driver license.

The written knowledge 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 taken on a computer at the ITD office, and you receive your score when ready after finishing.

The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, what different road signs mean, how to handle bad weather, and what to do at traffic lights and stop signs. You can study using the official Idaho Driver Manual, which is available as a free PDF on the ITD website. The manual is about 80 pages and contains all the information you need to pass the test.

You are allowed to take the written test up to three times in a single visit to the ITD office if you do not pass on your first attempt. If you fail all three times, you must wait one day before returning to try again. Most people pass on their first or second attempt if they study the manual beforehand.

Vision screening and the driving test

After you pass the written test, you will have your vision screened at the ITD office. The screener will check whether you can see clearly enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision screening, you will not be able to take the driving test that day, and you may need to see an eye doctor before returning.

The driving test is scheduled for a separate appointment, usually within one to four weeks after you pass the written test. During the test, an ITD examiner will ride with you in your own vehicle (or a vehicle you arrange) and watch how you handle basic driving tasks. The test includes starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and driving on both quiet streets and busier roads. The test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes.

You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working headlights, brake lights, turn signals, wipers, and mirrors. Bring your proof of insurance and vehicle registration with you. If you do not have a vehicle, some ITD offices allow you to use a vehicle provided by a driving school, though you should call ahead to confirm.

Getting a permit if you are under 18

If you are under 18, you cannot go directly to a full driver license. Instead, you must first get an instruction permit by passing the written test and vision screening. With a permit, you can drive only when a licensed adult age 21 or older is sitting next to you in the front seat.

You must hold your permit for at least 6 months before you can take the driving test. During those 6 months, you should practice driving with a licensed adult as much as possible. After 6 months, you can schedule your driving test. Once you pass, you receive an intermediate license, which allows you to drive alone but with certain restrictions: you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot use a cell phone while driving (except in emergencies).

You must hold an intermediate license for at least 6 months before you can explore for a full license. Once you turn 18 or have held the intermediate license for 6 months, whichever comes later, you can visit an ITD office and request a full license. There is no additional test required; you straightforward pay the fee and receive your full license.

Costs and how long the process takes

The fee for a new driver license in Idaho is $32.50 for a 4-year license (if you are under 21) or $65 for an 8-year license (if you are 21 or older). You pay this fee at the ITD office when you receive your license. There is no fee for the written test, vision screening, or driving test itself.

The timeline depends on your age and how quickly you schedule your appointments. If you are 18 or older, you can complete the written test and vision screening in a single visit, then schedule your driving test for a later date. Most people wait one to four weeks for a driving test appointment. After you pass the driving test, you receive your license on the spot.

If you are under 18, the process takes longer because you must hold a permit for 6 months before taking the driving test, and then hold an intermediate license for another 6 months before getting a full license. The total time from your first visit to the ITD office to receiving a full license is typically 12 to 14 months.

Renewing or replacing your Idaho license

When your license is about to expire, you can renew it by visiting an ITD office or by mail. If you renew by mail, you do not need to take another test; you straightforward send in your current license and the renewal fee. Mail renewal takes about two weeks. If you visit an office in person, you can walk out with your new license the same day.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement at any ITD office. Bring your proof of identity and residency, just as you did for your original license. The replacement fee is $10.50. You will receive a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic license card by mail within one to two weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the driving test in a vehicle I do not own?

Yes, as long as the vehicle is registered and insured. You can use a family member's car, a friend's car, or a vehicle from a driving school. The vehicle must have working safety equipment and pass a basic inspection by the examiner before the test begins.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can schedule another driving test appointment and try again. There is no limit to how many times you can take the test, though you must wait at least one day between attempts. Most people pass on their second or third attempt after more practice.

Do I need to take a written test again if I move to Idaho from another state?

If you already have a valid driver license from another state, you can transfer it to an Idaho license without taking the written or driving test. You will need to visit an ITD office with your out-of-state license and proof of Idaho residency. The fee is $32.50 or $65 depending on your age.

Can I get a Real ID compliant license in Idaho?

Yes. A Real ID compliant license has a gold star in the upper right corner and is required for federal building access and domestic air travel. When you explore for a new license or renew, you can request a Real ID license by bringing additional documents such as a passport or birth certificate. There is no extra fee.

What if I cannot pass the vision screening?

If you fail the vision screening, you can see an eye doctor and return to the ITD office with a vision correction certificate. The certificate shows that you have been evaluated and can drive safely with glasses or contacts. You can then retake the vision screening at the ITD office.