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How to Get Your Idaho Permit License

The actual step-by-step process, from application to full license — not just what's on the exam. Confirm anything time-sensitive (fees, forms) with Idaho DMV directly.

Under 18 (Graduated Licensing)

  1. Prove school enrollment, then apply for a SIP at 14 and a half

    An applicant under 18 must first prove enrollment in, attendance in, or graduation from a recognized high school or equivalent program. Apply at a DMV office and pass the computer-adaptive knowledge test (85%, 34 correct, up to 40 questions) plus a vision test.

    • Proof of identity and residency
    • Proof of school enrollment or graduation
    • Parent or guardian signature

  2. Complete an approved driver's ed program

    Complete 30 hours of classroom instruction, 6 hours of in-car observation, and 6 hours behind the wheel with a driver training instructor.

    • Driver's ed completion certificate

  3. Log 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 at night

    Complete and log at least 50 hours of supervised driving practice, with at least 10 of those hours at night.

  4. Hold the SIP 6 months, or until 17, whichever comes first

    Hold the Supervised Instruction Permit for at least 6 months after completing driver's ed, or until your 17th birthday, whichever comes first.

  5. Apply for an underage license at 15

    Once you've turned 15 and met the holding period and hour requirements, apply for an underage driver's license.

  6. Follow underage license restrictions

    For the first 6 months, carry no more than one passenger under 17 who isn't immediate family — a restriction lasting until age 17. If younger than 16, drive unsupervised only during daylight hours.

  7. Move to a regular license at 18

    A regular, unrestricted driver's license becomes available at 18.

18 and Older

  1. Apply for an instruction permit

    Apply at a DMV office; the graduated stages and their restrictions apply only to an applicant who starts before turning 18.

  2. Pass the knowledge test

    Pass the same computer-adaptive knowledge test (85%, 34 correct) and a vision test.

    • Proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency

  3. Practice and pass the road test

    Practice driving under the terms of your instruction permit, then pass the road test to receive your license.

  4. Receive your full license

    Adult first-time applicants receive a standard, unrestricted license upon passing.

Notes

  • Idaho's licensing agency is the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), part of the Idaho Transportation Department — a genuine "DMV," unlike several neighboring states.
  • Idaho's 85% permit-test passing score is one of the highest in the country, and the computer-adaptive format can end the test early once you reach 34 correct.
  • Exact fees and current procedures change over time — confirm the current process on the official Idaho DMV website before your appointment.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-23