How to Get Your Idaho Learner's Permit (ITD DMV Guide)
Everything you need to apply for a Supervised Instruction Permit (SIP) through the Idaho Transportation Department Division of Motor Vehicles (ITD DMV) — the age requirement, documents to bring, the knowledge test, fees, and what comes next.
Requirements & minimum age
To get a Supervised Instruction Permit (SIP) in Idaho, you must be at least 14½ (supervised instruction permit) and apply in person at the Idaho Transportation Department Division of Motor Vehicles (ITD DMV). Applicants under 18 generally need a parent or guardian to sign, and many states also require enrollment in or completion of a driver-education course.
Idaho's ITD knowledge test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving — including mountain-pass driving — from the Idaho Driver's Manual. Idaho allows early supervised permits and requires driver training for teens.
Documents to bring to the ITD DMV
Bring original or certified documents (not photocopies) that establish:
- Proof of identity and date of birth, such as a certified original birth certificate (or a lawful presence document if applicable). Applicants under 18 may have a parent or guardian present their own photo ID on the applicant's behalf.
- Social Security card or written proof of your Social Security number for verification.
- Proof of Idaho residency, such as a utility bill, bank statement, or lease showing your current physical address.
- Parental or guardian consent: applicants under 18 must have a parent or court-ordered legal guardian appear in person to sign as the liability signer.
- Verification of School Compliance (proof of current school enrollment or completion) for applicants under 18.
- Proof of enrollment in or completion of an approved driver-training course for applicants seeking a license before age 17.
The knowledge test
In Idaho, the knowledge test is taken in person. The knowledge exam is taken in person on a computer at a county driver's license office, and consists of 40 multiple-choice questions on traffic laws, signs, and safe-driving rules, with an 85 percent (34 correct) passing score.
Rehearse with our free Idaho practice test — 25 random questions with instant explanations.
Start the Idaho Practice Test →Fees
The ITD DMV charges About $21.50 (includes a $6.50 advance skills-test fee) for the permit. Amounts can change and sometimes include separate knowledge-test or service fees, so verify the current cost with the ITD DMV before you visit.
What happens after you pass (graduated licensing)
The SIP is the first stage of Idaho's Graduated Driver's Licensing program and may be issued starting at age 14 years and 6 months. Holders must drive only while accompanied by a licensed supervising driver at least 21 years old, hold the permit for at least six months, and complete driver training plus 50 hours of supervised practice (10 at night) before qualifying for a license.
Idaho permit FAQ
How many questions is the Idaho permit test?
The ITD DMV knowledge test has about 40 questions, and you need 34 of 40 (85%) — one of the highest thresholds in the U.S. to pass. Our free practice test uses a random set of 25 questions so you can rehearse before the real thing.
Can you take the Idaho permit test online?
In Idaho, the knowledge test is taken in person. The knowledge exam is taken in person on a computer at a county driver's license office, and consists of 40 multiple-choice questions on traffic laws, signs, and safe-driving rules, with an 85 percent (34 correct) passing score.
What do I need to bring to the ITD DMV?
Bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Idaho residency, plus anything required for a Supervised Instruction Permit (SIP). Applicants under 18 also need parental or guardian consent. See the full checklist above.
How old do you have to be to get a Idaho permit?
You can apply for a Supervised Instruction Permit (SIP) at 14½ (supervised instruction permit) in Idaho, provided you meet the ITD DMV's other requirements.
How much does a Idaho permit cost?
The ITD DMV charges About $21.50 (includes a $6.50 advance skills-test fee) for the permit. Fees can change and may include separate testing or service charges, so confirm the current amount with the ITD DMV.
What happens if I fail the Idaho permit test?
If you do not pass the knowledge test, you must wait at least three days before trying again. There is no limit on the number of attempts, but a retest fee applies each time.
Official sources: itd.idaho.gov · itd.idaho.gov