What You Need to Do Right Now

To replace a lost Idaho driver's license, you must visit an Idaho Department of Transportation (ITD) Driver Services office in person with proof of identity and residency. You cannot renew or replace a license by mail or online. The replacement takes about 15 minutes at the office, and you will receive a temporary paper license when ready; your plastic card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

The process costs $32.50 for a standard replacement. You do not need to retake the written or vision test unless your license has been expired for more than one year, or unless an ITD employee flags a concern during your visit.

Key Takeaways

  • You must appear in person at an ITD Driver Services office with a valid ID document and proof you live in Idaho.
  • The replacement fee is $32.50, and you get a temporary paper license to use when ready.
  • Your new plastic license card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days; do not expect it faster.
  • If your license expired more than one year ago, you will need to pass the vision test and written exam again.
  • ITD offices are open Monday through Friday; some locations have limited hours or are closed on certain days, so check ahead.

Documents You Must Bring

Bring one primary identity document and one proof of Idaho residency. Primary documents include a valid passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID. A Social Security card, birth certificate, or school ID does not count as primary identification.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax notice, or bank statement showing your current Idaho address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A driver's license or ID card from another state does not count as proof of residency, even if it shows an Idaho address.

If you do not have a primary ID document, you can bring two secondary documents instead — such as a school ID plus a utility bill, or a birth certificate plus a lease. Ask the ITD office which combination they will accept before you visit.

Where to Go and When

Idaho has ITD Driver Services offices in Boise, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho Falls, Lewiston, Pocatello, and Twin Falls. The Boise office is the largest and typically has the shortest wait times on weekday mornings. Smaller regional offices may have longer waits or limited hours.

All offices are open Monday through Friday. Hours vary by location — most open at 8:00 a.m. and close between 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., but some close for lunch or have reduced hours on certain days. Check the ITD website or call ahead before you go. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait 30 minutes to two hours depending on the office and time of day.

If you cannot reach an office near you, you can request a replacement by mail, but only if you are unable to appear in person due to a medical condition or disability. You will need to submit a written request with a doctor's letter explaining why you cannot visit an office. This process takes longer and requires additional documentation.

What Happens at the Office

When you arrive, check in at the front desk and give the staff member your documents. They will verify your identity and residency, then ask you to confirm your address and any other information on file. You will pay the $32.50 fee by cash, debit card, or credit card — not all offices accept checks.

The staff will take a new photo for your license. Wear something you are comfortable being photographed in; the photo will be used for your new card. You will then sign a form confirming the information on your replacement license is correct.

Before you leave, you will receive a temporary paper license that is valid for driving when ready. This temporary license is good for 30 days. Your permanent plastic card will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. If you do not receive it within two weeks, contact the ITD office where you applied.

If Your License Has Been Expired for Over a Year

If your Idaho license expired more than 12 months ago, you must pass the vision test and written knowledge exam before you can get a replacement. The vision test takes about 5 minutes and checks that you can read a chart at a specific distance. The written exam has 40 questions about Idaho traffic laws and road signs; you must answer at least 32 correctly to pass.

You can study for the written test using the Idaho Driver's Manual, which is free on the ITD website. Many people pass on the first try if they spend 30 minutes reviewing the manual beforehand. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day at no extra cost.

The vision test and written exam add about 20 to 30 minutes to your visit. Plan for a total appointment time of 45 minutes to one hour if your license has been expired for over a year.

After You Receive Your New Card

Your new plastic license card will arrive by mail. Check the address, name, and license number on the card as soon as it arrives. If anything is wrong, return to an ITD office with the card and your temporary license to request a correction. Corrections are usually made on the spot at no extra charge.

Once your new card arrives, you can throw away the temporary paper license. Your new card is valid for eight years if you are under 65, or four years if you are 65 or older. Mark your calendar for the renewal date printed on the back of the card so you do not accidentally let it expire.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not bring a secondary ID document as your only form of identification. The ITD will turn you away if you only have a school ID, birth certificate, or Social Security card. Bring a passport, military ID, or tribal ID instead.

Do not assume your temporary paper license will work everywhere. Some businesses and law enforcement may not accept it as valid ID, especially for age-restricted purchases. Carry it with you, but be prepared to explain that your permanent card is in the mail.

Do not wait for your new card to arrive before updating your address if you move. If you move before your card arrives, return to an ITD office with your temporary license and proof of your new address. They will reissue your card to the correct address at no extra cost.

Do not try to replace your license online or by phone. Idaho does not offer online or phone replacement for lost licenses. You must visit an office in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement license the same day I explore?

You receive a temporary paper license the same day you explore, which is valid for driving when ready. Your permanent plastic card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. There is no way to get the plastic card faster.

What if I lost my license out of state?

You still must visit an Idaho ITD office in person to explore for a replacement. If you are currently out of state and cannot return to Idaho right away, you can request a replacement by mail if you have a medical reason. Otherwise, plan to visit an office as soon as you can.

Do I have to retake the written test if my license expired?

Only if your license has been expired for more than one year. If it expired less than a year ago, you do not need to retake any tests. The ITD staff will tell you whether you need to test based on your expiration date.

What if the address on my proof of residency does not match my old license?

That is fine. The ITD will use the address on your proof of residency document to update your file. Make sure the residency document is dated within the last 60 days and shows your current address.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. You must explore for the replacement in person at an ITD office. However, once your card arrives by mail, anyone can open and use it if it is addressed to your home.