Book your Idaho DMV appointment online or by phone before you visit

Idaho's Department of Motor Vehicles lets you schedule appointments through their online system or by calling your local office directly. The online booking tool at itd.idaho.gov shows available time slots at each location and lets you reserve a specific date and time. If you prefer to call, each DMV office has its own phone number listed on the website, and staff can book you into the next available slot.

Walk-ins are accepted at most Idaho DMV offices, but appointment holders are served first, and wait times for walk-ins can stretch past two hours during peak times. Scheduling ahead means you know exactly when to arrive and how long you'll spend there. Most appointments take 15 to 30 minutes, depending on what you're doing — a license renewal is faster than a first-time license or title transfer.

You can schedule an appointment up to 30 days in advance. If you need to reschedule or cancel, you can do that through the same online system or by calling the office where you booked.

Key Takeaways

  • Idaho DMV appointments are booked at itd.idaho.gov or by calling your local office, and you can reserve a slot up to 30 days ahead.
  • Bring your current ID, proof of residency (utility bill or lease), and any documents specific to your transaction — such as a bill of sale for a vehicle purchase or your current registration for a renewal.
  • Appointment holders are served before walk-ins, and most transactions take 15 to 30 minutes once you're called to a window.
  • If you need to change your appointment, use the online system or call the office directly; cancellations made 24 hours ahead avoid any fees.

What documents you need for common Idaho DMV transactions

The documents you bring depend on what you're doing. For a driver's license renewal, bring your current license, proof of residency (a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement with your name and address), and your Social Security number. If your address has changed, bring the new proof of residency.

For a new driver's license or ID card, bring your birth certificate or passport, proof of residency, Social Security card or number, and proof of legal presence (a U.S. passport, permanent resident card, or visa). You'll also take a new photo at the office.

For a vehicle title or registration, bring the bill of sale or previous title, proof of residency, and your ID. If someone else is on the title with you, both owners should be present or you'll need a notarized power of attorney from the absent owner. For a registration renewal, bring your current registration and proof of insurance.

If you're transferring a title from out of state, bring the out-of-state title, a bill of sale, proof of residency, and your ID. Idaho requires an odometer reading for vehicles under 10 years old, so have that ready.

Idaho DMV office locations and phone numbers

Idaho has DMV offices in Boise, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho Falls, Lewiston, Pocatello, and Twin Falls. Each office handles the same services, so you can visit whichever is most convenient. The Boise office (208-334-8736) is the largest and typically has the most appointment slots available, but all locations can handle renewals, new licenses, title transfers, and registration changes.

Hours vary by location but most are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some offices closing for lunch. A few locations have limited Saturday hours. Check the specific office's hours on itd.idaho.gov before you book, because some offices close for training days or holidays without advance notice on the website.

If you live in a rural area far from any office, you may be able to renew your license by mail. Check the DMV website to see if your transaction type qualifies for mail renewal, which takes about two weeks.

What happens during your appointment

Arrive 5 to 10 minutes early. You'll check in at the front desk, and staff will verify your documents and confirm your transaction. If anything is missing or incorrect, they'll tell you then — don't wait until you're called to a window. Bring all documents in original form; copies are not accepted for most transactions.

Once you're called to a window, the DMV employee will review your documents, ask verification questions (such as your address or license number), and process your transaction. For a new license or ID, you'll take a photo. For a vehicle title or registration, they'll enter the information into the system and print your documents on the spot.

Fees are paid at the window. Idaho accepts cash, check, and card. Keep your receipt — it's proof of your transaction if there's a delay in receiving your license or registration in the mail. Most licenses and registrations arrive within 7 to 10 business days.

When you can't make your appointment

If you need to reschedule, log into the online booking system and select a new time, or call the office directly. Canceling or rescheduling at least 24 hours before your appointment time avoids any fees. If you miss an appointment without canceling, some offices may charge a no-show fee or require you to rebook.

If an emergency prevents you from attending, call the office as soon as possible. Staff understand that plans change, and most will work with you to reschedule without penalty if you contact them before your appointment time.

Renewing your license by mail instead of in person

Idaho allows mail renewal for driver's license and ID card renewals if your license is not expired and you have no address changes. You cannot renew by mail if you need a new photo, if your license is suspended or revoked, or if you're changing your name or gender marker.

To renew by mail, read the process from itd.idaho.gov, fill it out, and mail it with your current license, a check or money order for the renewal fee, and a photocopy of your proof of residency. Mail it to the address listed on the form. Processing takes about two weeks, and your new license will arrive by mail.

Mail renewal costs the same as in-person renewal and is a good option if you live far from an office or have a busy schedule. However, if your license expires before your renewal arrives, you'll need to visit an office in person to get a temporary license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book an appointment for someone else?

No, the person whose license or registration is being processed must book the appointment themselves or be present when you call to book on their behalf. If you're booking for a minor, a parent or guardian can call the office to schedule.

What if I don't have proof of residency?

Proof of residency must show your name and current address. If you don't have a utility bill or lease, you can use a mortgage statement, bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail. If you have none of these, call your local DMV office to ask what alternative documents they accept.

How long does a vehicle title transfer take?

Title transfers are processed at your appointment and usually completed the same day. Your new title will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to drive the vehicle before the title arrives, ask for a temporary registration at the window.

Do I need an appointment for a duplicate license or registration?

You can request a duplicate license or registration with an appointment or as a walk-in. Duplicates are printed on the spot and cost less than a renewal. If you're a walk-in, expect a longer wait during busy times.

What if my documents are from another country?

Foreign documents must be accompanied by a certified English translation. Contact your local DMV office before your appointment to confirm which documents they accept and whether your translation needs to be certified by a specific organization.