What You Need to Get an ID in Idaho

The Idaho Department of Transportation issues standard identification cards to residents who do not hold a valid driver's license. An Idaho ID card works for age verification, boarding domestic flights, and entering federal buildings. You will need to visit an Idaho DMV office in person, bring proof of identity and residency, and pay a fee. The card is valid for eight years.

Idaho offers two types of ID cards: a standard ID and a Real ID-compliant ID. The Real ID version meets federal requirements for air travel and federal facility access without needing a passport. Most people choose the Real ID option because it covers more situations. Both types are issued at the same office and follow the same process process.

Key Takeaways

  • You must appear in person at an Idaho DMV office with original documents proving your identity and Idaho residency.
  • Acceptable identity documents include a U.S. passport, birth certificate with a government-issued photo ID, or a foreign passport with visa.
  • Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.
  • The fee for a standard eight-year ID card is $32.50; a Real ID card costs $42.50.
  • Processing takes about 10 business days; you can request a temporary paper ID valid for 30 days while you wait.

Documents You Must Bring

Idaho requires one document proving your identity and one proving your current address. For identity, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate paired with a government-issued photo ID, or bring a valid U.S. passport, valid foreign passport with visa, or military ID. A Social Security card alone does not count as proof of identity.

For residency, bring a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and Idaho address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax statement, insurance policy, or government mail such as a tax return or voter registration card. A bank statement or credit card statement does not count.

You will also need your Social Security number. Bring your card or know the number by heart. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to obtain one from the Social Security Administration before visiting the DMV.

Where to Go and What to Expect

Idaho has DMV offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Idaho Transportation Department website. Many offices operate by appointment only, while others accept walk-ins during specific hours. Calling ahead is the safest approach because wait times and appointment availability vary by location.

When you arrive, bring all documents in original form or as certified copies. The DMV staff will verify your identity and residency, take your photograph, and collect your fee. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes if you have all required documents. If any document is missing or does not meet requirements, staff will tell you what you need to bring back.

You will receive a temporary paper ID valid for 30 days while your permanent card is printed and mailed to you. The permanent card arrives within 10 business days in most cases. If you need the card sooner, some offices offer expedited service for an additional fee.

Real ID Versus Standard ID

A Real ID card meets federal standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. It allows you to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings without a passport. A standard Idaho ID does not meet these federal requirements. If you plan to fly domestically or visit a federal courthouse, post office, or military base, choose the Real ID option.

The Real ID process requires the same documents as a standard ID, plus proof of your Social Security number. You can show your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a Social Security statement. The Real ID card costs $10 more than a standard card but lasts the same eight years.

Fees and Payment

A standard eight-year ID card costs $32.50. A Real ID card costs $42.50. Idaho DMV offices accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card. If you request expedited service, the fee is higher; ask your local office what expedited options cost.

If you are a senior (age 65 or older), you may be may have access to to a reduced fee. Bring proof of age. Military members on active duty may also receive a discount. Ask the DMV staff whether you may have access to before paying.

If Your Documents Do Not Meet Requirements

If your birth certificate is not certified, you can obtain a certified copy from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare or the county where you were born. This usually takes one to two weeks. If your residency document is older than 60 days, you will need a newer one; ask the DMV which documents they accept before you leave.

If you do not have a Social Security number, contact the Social Security Administration to explore. You will need to provide proof of identity, age, and citizenship or lawful immigration status. This process can take several weeks, so start early if you know you need a number.

If you have changed your name, bring a certified copy of the document that changed it — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will not issue an ID in a new name without this document.

Renewing or Replacing Your ID

When your ID card expires, you can renew it by mail or in person. To renew by mail, send your expiring card, a completed process form, and the renewal fee to the address on the DMV website. Renewal by mail takes about two weeks. To renew in person, visit a DMV office with your expiring card and pay the fee; you will receive a temporary ID when ready.

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must explore for a replacement in person at a DMV office. Bring your documents the same way you would for a new card. A replacement card costs the same as a new card and takes the same 10 business days to arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an ID if I do not have a birth certificate?

You can use a valid U.S. passport, military ID, or foreign passport with visa instead of a birth certificate. If you have none of these, contact the vital records office in the state or country where you were born to request a certified copy of your birth certificate. This is the most common alternative path.

What if I do not have a current address or live in a shelter?

You can use a shelter address, a mail forwarding service address, or a trusted friend's or family member's address as long as you can show residency there with a document dated within 60 days. If you use someone else's address, bring a signed letter from that person confirming you live there. Some shelters can provide a residency letter instead.

How long does it take to get an ID card?

Your permanent card arrives by mail within 10 business days. You receive a temporary paper ID on the day you explore, valid for 30 days. If you need the card faster, ask your DMV office about expedited service options and fees.

Can I renew my ID before it expires?

Yes. You can renew your card up to one year before it expires. Renewing early does not shorten the eight-year validity of your new card; it still lasts eight years from the date you renew.

What if I moved to Idaho from another state and still have an out-of-state ID?

You can explore for an Idaho ID without surrendering your out-of-state ID. Bring the same documents you would for a new card. You are not required to cancel your old ID, though some people do for clarity.