What you need to know about Nez Perce County driver's licenses

Nez Perce County, located in north-central Idaho, issues driver's licenses through the Idaho Department of Transportation (ITD). You cannot get a license directly from the county — you must go to an ITD office. The main office serving Nez Perce County is in Lewiston, the county seat. Idaho issues both standard driver's licenses and Real ID-compliant licenses, which are required for federal purposes like boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings after May 7, 2025.

The process takes one visit if you have all required documents. You'll pay a fee that varies by license type and how long you want it to last. Idaho offers licenses valid for four, six, or eight years. Renewal can be done by mail or online if you're not changing your address or license class, which saves you a trip.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit the ITD office in Lewiston to get or renew a Nez Perce County driver's license — the county itself does not issue them.
  • Real ID-compliant licenses require an original or certified birth certificate, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency, while standard licenses need fewer documents.
  • Bring a valid form of identification, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address in Nez Perce County.
  • Idaho offers licenses valid for four, six, or eight years; longer licenses cost more but renew less often.
  • You can renew by mail or online if you meet certain conditions, which means you may not need to return to the office.

Where to go in Nez Perce County

The Idaho Department of Transportation office that serves Nez Perce County is located in Lewiston. This is the only full-service ITD office in the county where you can explore for a new license, take a written test, or take a driving test. Hours vary by season and day of the week, so check the ITD website or call ahead before you go.

Walk-ins are accepted, but wait times can be long during peak hours (typically mid-morning and early afternoon on weekdays). If you want to reduce your wait, you can request an appointment through the ITD website. Some services, like vision testing or the written exam, may have limited availability on certain days.

Documents you need for a first-time license

Idaho requires different documents depending on whether you want a standard license or a Real ID-compliant license. For a standard driver's license, bring a valid form of ID (passport, military ID, or out-of-state license), proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address in Nez Perce County (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).

For a Real ID-compliant license, you need everything above plus an original or certified copy of your birth certificate and a second form of proof of residency. Real ID licenses have a gold star in the upper right corner and are required for federal purposes. If you don't have a birth certificate, you can order one from the Idaho Bureau of Vital Records or the state where you were born, though this adds time to your process.

If you're renewing a license you already hold, you may need fewer documents. Check the ITD website for your specific situation, as renewal rules differ from first-time issuance.

Fees and how long licenses last

Idaho driver's license fees depend on the license type and validity period you choose. A standard four-year license costs less than a six-year or eight-year license. Real ID licenses cost slightly more than standard licenses for the same validity period. Fees are set by state law and do not vary by county.

You can choose how long you want your license to last when you explore. Longer licenses cost more upfront but mean you renew less often. If you're unsure how long you'll stay in Idaho, a four-year license is a lower-cost starting point. The ITD office will tell you the exact fee for your choice before you pay.

Taking the written and driving tests

If you're getting your first Idaho license or upgrading your license class (for example, from a regular license to one that allows you to drive a motorcycle), you must pass a written test. The test covers Idaho traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Idaho Driver's Manual, which is free on the ITD website. The test is given on a computer at the Lewiston office.

You must also pass a driving test unless you're transferring a valid license from another state. The driving test is conducted by an ITD examiner and takes about 30 minutes. You'll drive on local roads in and around Lewiston. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. If you fail either test, you can retake it, though you may have to wait a few days and pay a retest fee.

Renewing your license by mail or online

If your license is still valid and you're not changing your address or license class, you can renew by mail or online without visiting the Lewiston office. Online renewal is faster and available through the ITD website. Mail renewal takes longer but works if you prefer not to use the internet.

To renew online, you'll need your current license number, date of birth, and a valid payment method. The process takes a few minutes, and your new license will be mailed to your address on file. Mail renewal follows the same steps but by paper form. Not all situations may have access to for mail or online renewal — for example, if your address has changed or your vision has declined, you must visit the office in person.

What happens if you move out of Nez Perce County

If you move to another Idaho county, you must update your address with the ITD. You can do this by mail, online, or in person at any ITD office. Your license remains valid; you're just updating where the state sends renewal notices and official mail. You do not need a new license straightforward because you moved within Idaho.

If you move out of Idaho entirely, your Idaho license remains valid for its full term, but you should get a license from your new state. Some states allow you to transfer your Idaho license; others require you to take a new written test. Check with the motor vehicle office in your new state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Nez Perce County license if I don't have a birth certificate?

Yes, for a standard license. You only need a birth certificate for a Real ID-compliant license. If you want Real ID and don't have your birth certificate, you can order one from the Idaho Bureau of Vital Records (if you were born in Idaho) or from the state where you were born. This usually takes one to two weeks.

What if I fail the written or driving test?

You can retake the test. There is usually a waiting period of a few days between attempts, and you may have to pay a retest fee. The ITD office in Lewiston will tell you when you can schedule your next attempt and what the fee is.

Do I need an appointment to visit the Lewiston ITD office?

No, walk-ins are accepted. However, appointments are available and can reduce your wait time. You can request an appointment through the ITD website. Peak wait times are usually mid-morning and early afternoon on weekdays.

Can I renew my license online if I'm moving to a different address?

No. Online and mail renewal only work if your address stays the same. If you're moving, you must visit the Lewiston office in person to update your address and renew your license at the same time.

What is the difference between a standard license and a Real ID license?

A Real ID license has a gold star and meets federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. A standard license does not. Real ID requires more documents (including a birth certificate) and costs slightly more, but it's required after May 7, 2025, for federal purposes. If you only drive locally, a standard license is sufficient.