How to Get a Replacement Idaho Driver's License

What you need to do to replace your Idaho driver's license

To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Idaho driver's license, you must visit an Idaho Department of Transportation (ITD) driver services office in person. You cannot renew or replace a license by mail or online. Bring your Social Security number, proof of Idaho residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and payment for the replacement fee, which is $28.50 for a standard license.

The replacement process takes about 15 minutes at the office. You will have your photo taken and your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. If your license was damaged but you still have it, bring it with you — the staff will destroy it and issue the replacement. If your license was lost or stolen, you do not need to report it to police first, though you may want to if identity theft is a concern.

Key Takeaways

You must visit an ITD driver services office in person; there is no online or mail option for replacements.
Bring your Social Security number, proof of Idaho residency, and $28.50 in cash or card payment.
Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days after your visit.
If your license was stolen, you do not need a police report to get a replacement, though filing one is an option if you suspect identity theft.
A replacement license has the same expiration date as your original license, so you are not paying to extend it.

Finding an ITD driver services office near you

Idaho has driver services offices in most counties. The main office is in Boise, but you can also visit locations in Coeur d'Alene, Pocatello, Idaho Falls, Twin Falls, and Lewiston, among others. The ITD website has a full list of office addresses and hours at itd.idaho.gov. Hours vary by location, but most are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours.

Some offices are busier than others, especially in larger cities. If you want to avoid a long wait, call ahead or visit early in the week. A few offices offer online appointment scheduling through the ITD website, which can save you time if your location supports it.

What counts as proof of Idaho residency

You need one document showing your current Idaho address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, an insurance policy, or a property tax bill. The document must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days.

If you recently moved to Idaho and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name, bring whatever you have — a signed lease from your landlord, a move-in confirmation email, or a letter from your employer confirming your new address. The staff can often work with recent arrivals. If you are homeless or living with someone else, ask the office what alternative documents they will accept.

Replacement fees and payment methods

A replacement driver's license costs $28.50. This fee applies whether your license was lost, stolen, or damaged. You can pay with cash, debit card, or credit card at the office. Some offices may accept checks, but calling ahead to confirm is safer.

The replacement fee is separate from renewal fees. Because your replacement license keeps your original expiration date, you are not paying to extend it. When your license actually expires, you will pay the standard renewal fee at that time.

What happens if your license was stolen

If your license was stolen, you do not need to file a police report to get a replacement. straightforward go to an ITD office and request a replacement. Tell the staff that your license was stolen so they can note it in the system.

However, if you are concerned about identity theft — for example, if your wallet contained other documents or cards — filing a police report is a good idea. A report creates an official record and can help if someone tries to use your stolen license to open accounts or commit fraud. You can file a report online through your local police department's website or visit a police station in person. The police report is not required for the license replacement, but it is useful documentation if you later discover fraudulent activity.

Getting a temporary license while you wait

ITD does not issue temporary paper licenses. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days, but during that time you will not have a valid license to show if stopped by police or asked for ID.

If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, you have limited options. Some people carry a copy of their ITD office receipt showing they requested a replacement, though police are not required to accept it as valid ID. A better option is to ask your employer or a government office if they will accept an alternative form of ID — such as a passport, passport card, or state ID card — while your driver's license is in the mail. If you are stopped by police and cannot show a valid license, you may receive a citation, so plan your driving carefully during the waiting period.

Replacing a license with a suspended or revoked status

If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot straightforward replace it and get back on the road. A replacement only gives you a new physical card with the same status. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation with ITD.

Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or unpaid child support. Revocation is more serious and usually results from DUI convictions or accumulating too many points. Contact ITD or the court that issued the suspension to find out what you must do to restore your driving privileges — this may involve paying fines, completing a program, or waiting out a mandatory period. Once your status is cleared, you can then get a replacement license if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement license if I do not have a Social Security number?

No. A Social Security number is required to obtain or replace an Idaho driver's license. If you are a non-citizen without a Social Security number, you may be able to get an Idaho ID card instead, which serves as state identification but is not a driver's license. Contact your local ITD office to discuss your options.

What if I moved out of state — can I still replace my Idaho license?

No. Once you move out of state and establish residency elsewhere, you should get a driver's license from your new state. If you still have an Idaho address on file and can provide proof of current Idaho residency, you can replace your license at an ITD office. If you no longer live in Idaho, you will need to get a license from your new state instead.

How long does it take to get my replacement license in the mail?

Most replacements arrive within 7 to 10 business days. Delivery time depends on your location and mail service. If your license does not arrive within two weeks, contact the ITD office where you applied to check the status.

Do I need to bring my old license if it was damaged?

Yes, if you still have your damaged license, bring it with you. The ITD staff will destroy it and issue your replacement. If your license is too damaged to bring or you cannot locate it, just tell the staff — you can still get a replacement.

Will my replacement license have a different number than my original?

No. Your replacement license will have the same license number as your original. The only thing that changes is the physical card itself.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.