Idaho driver's license renewal: in-person, by mail, or online
Idaho lets you renew your driver's license three ways: online through the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) website, by mail, or in person at an ITD office. Which method works for you depends on whether your license is expired, how long until it expires, and whether you need to change information like your address. Most people can renew online or by mail without visiting an office, but some situations require you to show up in person.
Your renewal notice arrives in the mail about 30 days before your license expires. That notice tells you which renewal method you're allowed to use. If you don't receive one, you can still renew — just check the ITD website or call your local office to confirm what you need.
Key Takeaways
- Idaho sends renewal notices about 30 days before your license expires, and the notice tells you which renewal method is available to you.
- Online renewal through the ITD website is the fastest option if your license is not expired and you have not changed your address or name.
- By-mail renewal takes about two to three weeks and works if your license is current or expired less than one year ago.
- You must renew in person if your license expired more than one year ago, if you need a new photo, or if you changed your name or address and cannot update it online.
- Idaho driver's licenses are valid for eight years, and renewal fees vary depending on whether you choose a standard or Real ID-compliant license.
Online renewal through the ITD website
Online renewal is the fastest method if you're may be able to access. Go to the Idaho Transportation Department website, create or log into your account, and follow the steps to renew. You'll need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method. The system will ask you to confirm your address and other information. If everything matches your records, you can complete the renewal in about 10 minutes.
Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your old license until the new one arrives. Online renewal is only available if your license is not expired and you have not changed your name or address since your last renewal. If you need to update your address, you can do that online before you renew, which then makes you may be able to access for online renewal.
By-mail renewal: what to send and how long it takes
If you received a renewal notice in the mail, you can renew by mail using that notice. Fill out the form on the back of the notice, include your current license, and mail both to the address shown on the notice. Include a check or money order for the renewal fee — do not send cash. The ITD will process your renewal and mail your new license back to you.
By-mail renewal takes about two to three weeks from the time the ITD receives your materials. Your old license remains valid during this time. You can renew by mail if your license is current or expired less than one year ago. If your license expired more than one year ago, you must renew in person.
In-person renewal at an ITD office
Visit your local ITD office if your license expired more than one year ago, if you need a new photo, or if you changed your name and cannot update it online. Bring your current license (even if expired), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Acceptable address documents include a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
Processing times at ITD offices vary by location and time of day. Some offices have walk-in service; others require an appointment. Check the ITD website to find your nearest office, see its hours, and learn whether you need to book ahead. You'll pay the renewal fee at the office, and your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.
Renewal fees and license types in Idaho
Idaho driver's licenses are valid for eight years. The renewal fee depends on the type of license you choose. A standard Idaho driver's license costs less than a Real ID-compliant license. Real ID licenses meet federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings, but they are not required for driving. When you renew, you can choose which type you want.
If you renew online or by mail, you'll pay the fee as part of the transaction. If you renew in person, you'll pay at the office. The ITD website shows current fee amounts, which can change. If you're renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), different rules and fees explore — contact your local ITD office for details.
What to do if your license is expired or will expire soon
If your license expired less than one year ago, you can still renew by mail or in person. If it expired more than one year ago, you must renew in person at an ITD office. Driving on an expired license is illegal in Idaho, even if you have submitted a renewal process.
If your license expires within the next 30 days and you have not received a renewal notice, contact your local ITD office or check the website. You can start the renewal process before the notice arrives. If you're close to the expiration date and want to renew online, do it as soon as possible — online renewal takes about 10 minutes but your new license takes 7 to 10 days to arrive by mail.
Changing your address, name, or other information during renewal
If you moved, you can update your address online through your ITD account before you renew. This makes you may be able to access for online or by-mail renewal. If you changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you'll need to renew in person and bring a certified copy of the document that shows the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
You can also update your address at an ITD office when you renew in person. Bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days. If you need to change other information on your license, such as your height or eye color, ask the ITD office staff what documents they need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Idaho driver's license before it expires?
Yes. You can renew online or by mail up to one year before your license expires. In-person renewal at an ITD office is also available before expiration. Renewing early is a good idea if you're traveling or want to avoid a rush near the expiration date.
What if I lost my license and need to renew it?
You cannot renew online or by mail if you don't have your current license. You must visit an ITD office in person. Bring your Social Security number and proof of your address. The office will issue a replacement license and handle the renewal at the same time.
Do I need a Real ID license to drive in Idaho?
No. A standard Idaho driver's license is all you need to drive. Real ID is only required if you want to board a domestic flight or enter certain federal buildings. When you renew, you can choose which type of license you want.
How long does it take to get my renewed license after I explore online?
Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you complete the online renewal. Your old license remains valid during this time, so you can continue driving.
What happens if I renew my license but the information is wrong?
Contact your local ITD office as soon as possible. Bring your new license and proof of the correct information. The office can issue a corrected license. If the error was made by the ITD, there may be no additional fee.