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 proof that you can operate a motor vehicle in the state. The license is valid for four years for most adults, though you can renew it in person, by mail, or online depending on your situation. If you're moving to Idaho, you have 90 days to get an Idaho license; if you already live here, you can renew before your current license expires.
The process differs depending on whether you're getting your first Idaho license, renewing an existing one, or replacing a lost or damaged card. Each path has different document requirements and takes different amounts of time, so knowing which one applies to you saves a trip to the ITD office.
Key Takeaways
- Idaho driver's licenses are issued by the Idaho Transportation Department and are valid for four years for most adults.
- You have three renewal options — online, by mail, or in person — but online and mail renewal only work if your license is not expired and you meet other conditions.
- Getting your first Idaho license requires proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number, and you must pass a written test and vision screening at an ITD office.
- If you move to Idaho from another state, you have 90 days to exchange your out-of-state license for an Idaho one.
- Replacement licenses for lost, stolen, or damaged cards cost less than a new license and can be ordered by mail or in person.
Getting your first Idaho driver's license
If you've never held an Idaho license, you must visit an ITD office in person. You cannot do this online or by mail. Bring your original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a valid passport, or a state ID card to prove your identity. You also need one document showing your current Idaho address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work, as long as it's dated within the last 60 days.
You'll also need to provide your Social Security number. At the office, you'll take a written knowledge test covering Idaho traffic laws, pass a vision screening, and have your photo taken. The fee for a four-year license is $37.50. The license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
If you're under 18, the process is the same, but your parent or guardian must be present and sign the process. Minors' licenses expire when they turn 21.
Renewing your Idaho license online or by mail
Online renewal is the fastest option if you're may be able to access. You can renew online through the ITD website if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, your address hasn't changed, and you're renewing for the first time (not a second consecutive renewal). The fee is $37.50, and you'll receive your new license by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
Mail renewal works under the same conditions. read the renewal form from the ITD website, fill it out, and mail it with a check or money order to the address on the form. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date ITD receives it, plus mail time in both directions.
If your license has already expired, you cannot use online or mail renewal. You must visit an ITD office in person and bring proof of identity and residency, just as if you were getting a new license. You'll also retake the vision screening.
Renewing in person at an ITD office
Visit any ITD office if you prefer to renew in person, if you're doing a second consecutive renewal, or if you're not may be able to access for online or mail renewal. Bring your current license and one document showing your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days). The fee is $37.50, and you'll have your new license when ready or within a few days if they need to order a replacement card.
If your address has changed, bring proof of your new address. If you've had a name change due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the legal document proving the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order — along with your current license.
Exchanging an out-of-state license for an Idaho license
If you've moved to Idaho from another state, you have 90 days to exchange your out-of-state license for an Idaho one. After 90 days, you cannot legally drive in Idaho on an out-of-state license. Visit any ITD office and bring your current out-of-state license, proof of Idaho residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and your Social Security number. You do not need to retake the written test, but you will have a vision screening and new photo taken. The fee is $37.50.
If your out-of-state license has already expired, you'll need to bring proof of identity and residency as if you were getting a new license, and you may need to take the written test. Check with your local ITD office about their specific requirements for expired licenses.
Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can order a replacement by mail or in person. A replacement costs $7.50, which is less than a renewal. By mail, read the replacement form from the ITD website, fill it out, and mail it with a check or money order. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from receipt, plus mail time.
In person, visit any ITD office with your Social Security number and one form of identification (passport, state ID, or birth certificate). You'll have your replacement license within a few days. If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to the police first, though it's not required to order a replacement.
ITD office locations and hours
Idaho has ITD offices in Boise, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho Falls, Lewiston, Pocatello, and Twin Falls. Each office handles driver's licenses, vehicle registration, and title services. Hours vary by location, but most are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed on state holidays. Some offices have reduced hours on certain days.
You can find the full list of office locations, hours, and phone numbers on the ITD website. If you're renewing by mail or online, you don't need to visit an office. Walk-ins are accepted at all locations, but wait times vary. Calling ahead to ask about current wait times can help you plan your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Idaho license if it's already expired?
No, you cannot renew online or by mail if your license is expired. You must visit an ITD office in person, bring proof of identity and residency, and have a vision screening. You may also need to retake the written test depending on how long it's been expired.
What if I moved to Idaho but haven't updated my address yet?
You have 90 days from moving to exchange your out-of-state license for an Idaho one. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of your new Idaho address (utility bill or lease dated within 60 days), and your Social Security number to any ITD office. You don't need to retake the written test.
How long does it take to get my license after I explore?
In-person renewals and new licenses arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Mail renewals take 2 to 3 weeks from the date ITD receives your form, plus mail time. Online renewals also arrive in 7 to 10 business days. If you renew in person and the office has your card in stock, you may leave with it the same day.
Do I need to take the written test again when I renew?
No, you do not retake the written test when you renew a valid Idaho license online, by mail, or in person. You only take the test when you get your first Idaho license or when you renew after your license has been expired for a long time.
What if my name changed since I got my current license?
Bring your current license and the legal document proving your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order — to any ITD office. You can renew in person at the same time. The office will update your name and issue a new license with the correct name.