How to Reinstate Your Idaho Driver's License
To reinstate your Idaho driver's license after it has been suspended or revoked, you must contact the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) to find out what specific requirements explore to your case, pay any required fees, and sometimes complete additional steps like a hearing or substance abuse program. The exact process depends on why your license was suspended or revoked — whether it was for unpaid traffic tickets, DUI, accumulating too many points, or another reason. ITD will tell you what you need to do and in what order.
You cannot straightforward walk into an office and get your license back. ITD maintains a record of every suspension and revocation, and you must clear the specific reason before reinstatement is possible. This guide explains how to find out what is required, what documents to gather, and what to expect at each step.
Key Takeaways
- Contact the Idaho Transportation Department directly to learn the exact reason your license was suspended or revoked and what steps you must take to reinstate it.
- Most reinstatements require paying a reinstatement fee to ITD, which varies depending on the reason for suspension or revocation.
- Some suspensions require you to complete a hearing, substance abuse program, or defensive driving course before ITD will consider reinstatement.
- Once you have met all requirements, you must submit proof to ITD and pay the reinstatement fee before your license becomes active again.
- The entire process typically takes two to four weeks after you have completed all requirements, though it can be faster if everything is in order.
Contact ITD to Learn Your Specific Requirements
Your first step is to call or visit the Idaho Transportation Department to find out exactly why your license was suspended or revoked and what you must do to reinstate it. ITD's Driver Services Bureau handles all reinstatement requests. You can reach them by phone at 208-334-8736 or visit an ITD office in person. Have your driver's license number or Social Security number ready when you call.
When you contact ITD, ask them to explain the reason for suspension or revocation, what documents or proof you need to gather, whether you must complete any programs or hearings, and what the reinstatement fee is. Write down everything they tell you, including the name of the person who helped you and the date of the call. This information protects you if there is confusion later about what was required.
If your license was suspended for unpaid traffic fines or child support, ITD will tell you the exact amount owed and to whom. If it was suspended for DUI or reckless driving, you may need to complete a substance abuse program or attend a hearing. ITD will explain which applies to you.
Gather Required Documents and Pay Any Outstanding Fines
Before you can reinstate your license, you must resolve the underlying reason for suspension. If fines are owed, you must pay them to the court or agency that issued the citation. If child support is owed, you must contact the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare to arrange payment or a payment plan. ITD cannot reinstate your license until these debts are cleared from their system.
If your suspension was related to a DUI or substance abuse offense, you will likely need to show proof that you have completed a substance abuse evaluation or treatment program. Some suspensions also require proof of insurance or a letter from your insurance company stating that you have maintained continuous coverage. Gather these documents before you contact ITD again.
Keep copies of all payment receipts, court documents, program completion certificates, and any other proof you gather. You will need to show these to ITD when you request reinstatement.
Complete Any Required Hearings or Programs
Depending on the reason for your suspension, ITD may require you to attend an administrative hearing before reinstatement is possible. This is most common for DUI suspensions or suspensions based on accumulating too many traffic violations. ITD will notify you by mail if a hearing is required and will tell you where and when to appear.
At the hearing, you will have the opportunity to present your case to an ITD hearing officer. You can bring documents, witnesses, or an attorney. The hearing officer will decide whether reinstatement is warranted based on the facts of your case. If the hearing officer approves reinstatement, ITD will send you written confirmation.
Some suspensions also require completion of a defensive driving course or substance abuse program before reinstatement. ITD will specify which programs are approved and where you can take them. You must complete the course and obtain a certificate of completion, which you then submit to ITD.
Submit Your Reinstatement Request and Pay the Fee
Once you have met all requirements — paid fines, completed programs, attended hearings if required, and gathered all necessary documents — you can request reinstatement from ITD. You can do this by mail, phone, or in person at an ITD office. If you submit by mail, include copies of all documents proving you have met the requirements, your driver's license number, and a check or money order for the reinstatement fee payable to the Idaho Transportation Department.
The reinstatement fee varies depending on the reason for suspension. Fees typically range from $75 to $200, but ITD will tell you the exact amount when you first contact them. Some suspensions have higher fees than others. Do not guess at the amount — call ITD to confirm before you send payment.
Mail your request to the Idaho Transportation Department, Driver Services Bureau, P.O. Box 7129, Boise, ID 83707-1129. Include a cover letter stating that you are requesting reinstatement and listing all documents enclosed. Keep a copy of everything you send.
What Happens After You Submit Your Request
After ITD receives your reinstatement request and payment, they will review your documents to confirm that all requirements have been met. This review typically takes two to four weeks. ITD will send you a letter confirming whether your license has been reinstated or whether additional information is needed.
If your license is reinstated, you do not need to visit an office or take a new test — your license becomes active again automatically once ITD processes your request. You can verify that your license is active by checking the ITD website or calling Driver Services. If you need a replacement license card because yours was suspended and you no longer have it, you can order one at the same time or visit an ITD office to get a new card when ready.
If ITD denies your reinstatement request, they will explain why in writing and tell you what additional steps you can take. You may have the right to request another hearing or to resubmit your request once you have completed additional requirements.
Reinstatement by Mail Versus In-Person
You can request reinstatement entirely by mail if you prefer not to visit an ITD office. Mailing is often faster than calling because you avoid phone wait times, and you have a written record of what you sent. However, mailing takes longer overall because of postal delays — typically one to two weeks each way.
If you visit an ITD office in person, you can submit your documents and payment when ready and receive confirmation on the spot. ITD staff can also review your documents while you are there and tell you right away if anything is missing. This is faster if you live near an ITD office and have all documents ready. ITD offices are located in Boise, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho Falls, Lewiston, Pocatello, and Twin Falls.
Whichever method you choose, bring or send copies of all documents, not originals. Keep the originals for your records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive while my reinstatement request is being processed?
No. Your license remains suspended until ITD officially reinstates it. Driving with a suspended license is illegal and can result in additional fines and criminal charges. Wait for written confirmation from ITD before you drive.
What if I lost my driver's license card and need a replacement?
You can request a replacement card at the same time you request reinstatement, or you can visit an ITD office after your license is reinstated. There is a small fee for a replacement card, usually around $20. ITD will tell you the current fee when you contact them.
Do I have to retake the written or driving test to reinstate my license?
No. Reinstatement does not require you to retake any tests. You only need to meet the specific requirements for your suspension, pay the reinstatement fee, and submit proof to ITD. Your original license remains valid once reinstated.
How long does reinstatement take if I submit everything by mail?
The entire process typically takes three to five weeks — one to two weeks for your mail to reach ITD, two to four weeks for ITD to process your request, and one to two weeks for their response to reach you. If you submit in person at an ITD office, processing takes two to four weeks from the date you submit.
What if I cannot pay the reinstatement fee right now?
Contact ITD to ask whether a payment plan is available. Some suspensions may allow you to pay the fee in installments, though this is not may provide. ITD will tell you what options exist for your specific situation.