Driving Permit

Steps to Get an Idaho Learner’s Permit

3 min read

If you're a teen or a first-time driver in Idaho, getting your learner's permit is the first major step toward becoming a licensed driver. The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) has a Graduated Driver’s License (GDL) program designed to help new drivers gain the experience needed to drive safely and responsibly. Here’s everything you need to know about securing your learner’s permit in the Gem State.

Age and Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a learner’s permit in Idaho, you must:

Be at least 14½ years old
Reside in Idaho and have proof of legal presence
Have a parent or legal guardian accompany you if you're under 18

Applicants under 17 must also enroll in and complete a state-approved driver’s education program.

More on age and residency rules can be found here: Idaho Driver’s License Age and Residency Requirements.

Required Documents

When visiting your local DMV office, bring the following:

Proof of identity, such as a certified birth certificate
Social Security number
Proof of Idaho residency (e.g., utility bill, rental agreement)
Legal presence documentation if not born in the U.S.
Parent or guardian’s photo ID and signature for consent

A full list is available here: What to Bring to the DMV for an Idaho License.

Enroll in Driver's Education

Teens under 17 are required to enroll in an approved driver’s education course. This includes:

30 hours of classroom instruction
6 hours of behind-the-wheel training
6 hours of in-car observation

Your driver’s education provider will issue a Verification of Compliance form, which must be submitted at the DMV.

Apply at the DMV

Once you have all required documents and education completed, you can:

Visit an Idaho DMV office with your parent or guardian.
Submit the required paperwork and forms.
Pay the appropriate permit fees.
Take and pass a vision screening.
Take the written knowledge test.

Study materials and tips are available here: Idaho Written Test Preparation Guide.

Written Test and Practice

The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions based on Idaho’s traffic laws and road signs. Use the Practice Questions for Idaho DMV Permit Test to prepare.

If you fail, you must wait at least 3 days before retesting and may be charged a retesting fee.

Supervised Driving Requirements

After passing the test, you’ll receive your Supervised Instruction Permit (SIP), allowing you to drive only with a licensed adult over 21. You must complete:

50 hours of supervised driving
10 hours must be at night

Learn more: Idaho Supervised Driving Requirements for Teens.

Permit Restrictions

While holding a learner’s permit, you must adhere to these restrictions:

No unsupervised driving
No cell phone or electronic device use while driving
Must carry the permit at all times

Review the full rules: Idaho Learner’s Permit Restrictions and Rules.

By understanding and following these steps, you'll be well on your way to earning your Idaho driver's license safely and legally.