Where to renew and what you need to bring

You can renew your Idaho driver's license at any Idaho Department of Transportation (ITD) office in person, or by mail if you meet certain conditions. The ITD has locations in Boise, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho Falls, Lewiston, Pocatello, and Twin Falls, plus several smaller satellite offices. You can find the full list and hours on the ITD website.

For an in-person renewal, bring your current driver's license, proof of Idaho residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 90 days), and your Social Security number. If your name has changed since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You'll also need to pass a vision test at the office.

Mail renewal is available only if your license is not expired and you have no medical conditions or restrictions that require an in-person check. The ITD will send you a renewal packet if you request one; you complete it at home and mail it back with your current license and the renewal fee.

Key Takeaways

  • Idaho driver's licenses are valid for eight years, and you can renew in person at any ITD office or by mail if your license is not yet expired.
  • Bring your current license, proof of Idaho residency dated within 90 days, and your Social Security number to renew in person.
  • The renewal fee is $32.50 for a standard eight-year license; the ITD accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card.
  • If you renew by mail, the ITD will process your process and mail your new license to you within two to three weeks of receiving it.
  • You can renew up to one year before your license expires, so you do not have to wait until the expiration date.

Renewal fees and payment methods

The standard renewal fee for an eight-year Idaho driver's license is $32.50. If you are 65 or older, the fee is $16.25 for an eight-year license. The ITD accepts cash, personal check, debit card, and credit card at all offices.

If you renew by mail, include a check or money order with your process packet. Do not send cash through the mail. The ITD will not process your renewal until payment is received.

Timeline for renewal by mail

If you choose to renew by mail, the ITD typically processes applications within two to three weeks of receiving them. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file. During busy periods — particularly in summer and around the holidays — processing may take longer.

Request your renewal packet by calling the ITD at 208-334-8736 or visiting an ITD office in person. You can also read the renewal form from the ITD website and mail it with your current license and payment. Include a return envelope with postage if you want the ITD to mail your old license back to you; otherwise, the ITD will destroy it.

When you must renew in person

You cannot renew by mail if your license is already expired, if you have medical conditions or restrictions noted on your license, or if the ITD has flagged your record for any reason. You also must renew in person if you want to change your address, add or remove restrictions, or update your photograph.

If you are renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), you must do so in person and may need to pass additional tests depending on your endorsements and the time since your last renewal.

Renewing early and license validity

Idaho allows you to renew your driver's license up to one year before it expires. This is useful if you have an upcoming trip or need a new license for identification purposes. Your new license will be valid for eight years from the date of renewal, not from your old expiration date.

If your license has already expired, you can still renew it at any ITD office. An expired license does not invalidate your driving record, but you should not drive with an expired license. Renew as soon as you can to avoid any legal issues.

What to do if your license is lost or damaged

If your license is lost, stolen, or too damaged to use, you will need to replace it rather than renew it. A replacement costs $32.50 and requires an in-person visit to an ITD office. Bring proof of your identity and Idaho residency, just as you would for a renewal.

If your license was stolen, you may want to report the theft to local police and keep a copy of the report. This protects you if someone uses your license number fraudulently. The ITD will issue you a new license with a different number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Idaho license online?

No, Idaho does not offer online renewal at this time. You can renew in person at any ITD office or by mail if your license is not expired and you have no medical restrictions.

What happens if I drive with an expired license?

Driving with an expired license is a violation in Idaho. You may be stopped and cited. Renew your license as soon as possible to avoid fines or other penalties.

Do I need an appointment to renew in person?

Most ITD offices do not require appointments for routine renewals, but some locations may have walk-in hours or recommend calling ahead during peak times. Check the ITD website for your local office's hours and policies.

Can I renew someone else's license on their behalf?

No, the license holder must be present for in-person renewal. For mail renewal, the applicant must sign the form themselves. The ITD requires the applicant's signature to verify identity.

What if my address has changed since my last license?

You must renew in person to update your address. Bring proof of your new Idaho residency dated within 90 days, such as a utility bill or lease. The ITD will print your new address on your renewed license.