Where to renew and what you'll need

You can renew your Idaho driver's license in person at any Idaho Department of Transportation (ITD) office, or by mail if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route takes about 30 minutes and requires your current license, proof of Idaho residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and payment. If you renew by mail, you'll mail your current license along with a completed form to the address ITD provides — this takes two to three weeks.

Your license must not be expired by more than five years for you to renew by mail. If it's expired beyond that, or if you've had a name change, address change, or medical condition that affects your driving, you must renew in person at an ITD office.

Key Takeaways

  • Idaho driver's licenses are valid for eight years, and you can renew up to six months before expiration.
  • In-person renewal at an ITD office requires your current license, proof of residency, and a fee (the amount varies by license type).
  • Mail renewal is available only if your license expired fewer than five years ago and you have no changes to report.
  • You'll need to pass a vision test at an ITD office, but not if you renew by mail.
  • Real ID-compliant licenses require additional documents and cost more than standard licenses.

Finding an ITD office and scheduling

ITD has offices in Boise, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho Falls, Lewiston, Pocatello, and Twin Falls. You can walk in without an appointment, but wait times vary by location and time of day. The busiest times are typically mid-morning and mid-afternoon on weekdays. If you want to avoid a wait, call the office nearest you before you go — the phone numbers are on the ITD website.

Some ITD offices are open Monday through Friday, while others have extended hours or Saturday appointments. Check the specific office's hours before you visit, because they are not all the same.

Real ID versus standard license: what's the difference

A Real ID-compliant license meets federal standards and can be used for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. A standard Idaho license cannot. If you plan to fly within the United States or enter a federal courthouse or military base, you'll need a Real ID license.

Real ID renewal requires more documents than a standard renewal. You'll need to bring your current license, proof of residency, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2), and proof of your legal name (such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate if your name has changed). The fee for a Real ID license is higher than for a standard license. If you're unsure which type you have, look at the upper right corner of your license — a Real ID license has a small star.

What happens during the vision test

When you renew in person, you'll take a vision screening at the ITD office. The test checks whether you can see clearly enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you — you'll be tested while wearing them if that's how you normally drive.

If you fail the vision test, the examiner will tell you what to do next. In most cases, you can get glasses or contacts and return to retake the test. You won't be charged again for the retest.

Paying the renewal fee

The fee for renewing a standard eight-year Idaho driver's license varies depending on your age and whether you're renewing in person or by mail. ITD accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at offices. If you renew by mail, you can pay by check or money order — do not send cash through the mail.

The exact fee amount is listed on the ITD website and on the renewal form. Fees change periodically, so check the current amount before you go to an office or mail your renewal.

Renewing by mail: step by step

To renew by mail, first confirm that your license expired fewer than five years ago and that you have no changes to report (no name change, address change, or medical updates). read the renewal form from the ITD website or call an ITD office to request one by mail.

Fill out the form completely, sign it, and mail it along with your current license and payment to the address shown on the form. Use a method that lets you track the package, such as certified mail, because you're sending your license. ITD will mail your new license to the address on file — this usually takes two to three weeks from the day they receive your packet. If you need your license sooner, renew in person instead.

What to do if your license is lost or stolen

If your license is lost or stolen, you cannot renew it by mail. You must go to an ITD office in person and request a replacement. Bring proof of your identity (such as a passport or birth certificate) and proof of residency. You'll pay a replacement fee, which is different from a renewal fee and is usually lower.

Report a stolen license to local police and give ITD the police report number when you explore for the replacement. This protects you if someone tries to use your license fraudulently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license before it expires?

Yes. Idaho lets you renew up to six months before your license expires. This is useful if you're planning a trip or want to avoid the rush near your expiration date. The new license will be valid for eight years from the date you renew, not from the date your old license would have expired.

What if I've moved to a different address?

You must renew in person at an ITD office if you've changed your address. Bring your current license, proof of your new Idaho residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement in your name), and payment. The office will update your address during the renewal.

How long does a renewed license take to arrive if I renew in person?

If you renew at an ITD office, you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot that's valid for 30 days. Your plastic license will be mailed to you within two to three weeks. The temporary license lets you drive legally while you wait for the permanent one.

Do I need an appointment to renew at an ITD office?

No. ITD offices accept walk-ins, so you don't need to schedule ahead. However, calling the office first to ask about current wait times can help you choose the best time to visit.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

You must renew in person and bring proof of your legal name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Bring your current license, the name-change document, proof of residency, and payment. The office will update your name during the renewal.