Idaho Driver's License
Requirements
In Idaho, driver's licenses are issued by the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) Division of Motor Vehicles — through county sheriff offices and county DMV branches that operate as ITD agents in each of Idaho's 44 counties. The standard non-commercial credential is a Class D Driver's License. Idaho operates a Graduated Driver License (GDL) program for drivers under 17: a Supervised Instruction Permit (SIP) at 14.5 (with concurrent Driver Education enrollment), a Restricted Class D License at 15 (with night-driving and passenger restrictions), and a full Class D License at 16. Driver Education is required for ALL applicants under 17. Idaho is among the small group of states that allows driving at age 15 (with Driver Ed) — primarily to support rural-resident families. Idaho issues the federally-compliant Star Card (the state's name for REAL ID) — required to board domestic flights starting May 7, 2025. Most renewals can be completed online at itd.idaho.gov; in-person services are handled at county DMV offices.
Requirements Overview
Must be an Idaho resident. The DMV requires two documents proving Idaho residency. New residents from another state must transfer their out-of-state license within 90 days of establishing residency. Idaho does NOT issue licenses to undocumented immigrants — proof of lawful presence is required.
Required Documents
Bring original documents only — photocopies are not accepted. Verify the complete current list at the official Idaho DMV website.
- Proof of identity and U.S. citizenship or lawful presence (U.S. passport, U.S. birth certificate, certificate of naturalization, or valid permanent resident card)
- Social Security number — SSN card, W-2, 1099, or paystub showing the full SSN
- Proof of name change (marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree) if applicable
- Two proofs of Idaho residency (utility bill, bank statement, lease, or current ID vehicle registration in your name)
- Parental/guardian consent signed in person at a county DMV office — required for applicants under 18
- For applicants under 17: state-approved Driver Education completion certificate
- Driving Log signed by parent confirming 50 supervised hours (10 at night)
- Vehicle for road test with valid ID registration and proof of insurance
Fees & Costs
Fees change frequently. Always verify the current fee at the official Idaho DMV website before your visit.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to get your Idaho driver's license. Steps may vary based on your age and residency status — always confirm with the official DMV.
Enroll in Driver Education at 14.5
Idaho requires all applicants under 17 to complete a state-approved Driver Education program before licensing: 30 classroom hours + 6 hours behind-the-wheel + 6 observation. Many Idaho high schools offer Driver Ed; private schools cost $300–$600.
Study the Idaho Driver's Manual
Download the current Idaho Driver's Manual from itd.idaho.gov. The written knowledge test is 40 questions covering ID traffic laws, road signs, mountain-driving safety, snow and ice driving, and the state's Move Over law. You need 80% (32 correct) to pass.
Apply for a Supervised Instruction Permit (SIP) at 14.5
Visit any Idaho county DMV office with your parent/guardian, required documents, Driver Education enrollment proof, and $21.50 fee. Pass the vision test and the written knowledge test. The SIP allows driving only when supervised by a licensed driver age 21+ in the front passenger seat.
Pro tip: Idaho's county-based DMV system means the office near you may be at the county sheriff or a separate DMV branch. The ITD website lists locations for each county.
Log 50 Supervised Hours (10 at Night)
During the Supervised Instruction Permit period, log at least 50 hours of supervised driving — including 10 hours at night — using the Idaho Driving Log. The supervising driver must be 21+ with a valid license. Both you and your parent sign each entry.
Hold Permit for 6 Months
Idaho requires a 6-month Supervised Instruction Permit period for under-17 applicants. The clock resets if the permit holder is convicted of any moving violation during the period.
Pass the Skills (Drive) Test at 15
Schedule the drive test at any Idaho county DMV office. Bring your Supervised Instruction Permit, completed Driver Education certificate, signed driving log, parent consent, vehicle insurance/registration, and a sober adult sponsor. The 15–25 minute test covers parallel parking, three-point turn, controlled intersections, lane changes, and basic city driving.
Receive the Restricted Class D License at 15
Pay the $30 Restricted Class D License fee. The Idaho Restricted License has restrictions: no driving sunset–sunrise unless accompanied by a parent/guardian or going to/from work or school. No more than ONE non-family passenger under 17 at any time. Cell phone use is restricted under ID general distracted-driving law.
Upgrade to Full Class D at 16
On the 16th birthday — after at least 6 months on the Restricted License with no convictions — the license automatically becomes a full Class D Driver's License. Standard 4-year ($30) or 8-year ($55) renewal cycle begins; restrictions lift completely. No additional test or office visit required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Idaho is one of only a few U.S. states that allows licensing at age 15 — primarily to support rural-resident families and the state's long-standing tradition of teens driving farm equipment and personal vehicles in agricultural settings. The Restricted Class D License at 15 has strict night and passenger restrictions; full unrestricted privileges arrive at age 16. Driver Education completion is mandatory for the under-17 path, ensuring teens have formal training before solo driving.
Ready to Apply?
Visit the official Idaho DMV to start your application with the correct, up-to-date requirements.
This website is not affiliated with any government agency or DMV office. Information is for general guidance only. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official DMV website before taking action.