How to Get Your Driver's License in Idaho
Last verified: 2026-03
Here is how to get your driver's license in Idaho. Idaho uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 16.
GDL Stages in Idaho
Learner's Permit
Requirements
- Pass written knowledge test
- Pass vision screening
- Parental consent if under 18
Restrictions
- Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older
Intermediate License
Requirements
- Hold learner's permit for at least 6 months
- Pass road skills test
- Complete supervised driving practice
Restrictions
- No driving between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.
- No more than 1 passenger under 17 who is not immediate family
Full Unrestricted License
Requirements
- Hold intermediate license with clean record
- Turn 16
Restricted License Rules
- No driving between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. for intermediate license holders.
- Only 1 passenger under 17 who is not a family member is permitted.
How restrictions lift: Restrictions are removed when the driver turns 16 or has held the intermediate license for the required period with a clean record.
Road Test Overview
What Is Tested
- Vehicle control
- Turning and lane changes
- Parking
- Obeying traffic signals and signs
- Speed management
- Yielding right of way
Adult Licensing Pathway
If you are 17 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. Drivers 17 and older are exempt from GDL restrictions. Idaho allows full licensure at 16 for teens who complete the GDL process.
Idaho-Specific Information
Idaho is one of the few states where teens can receive a full unrestricted license at age 16, and the intermediate license can be obtained as young as 15. The state also has one of the youngest permit ages in the country at 14 and a half.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be at least 16 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in Idaho.
Idaho uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit, Intermediate License, Full Unrestricted License.
- No driving between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. for intermediate license holders.
- Only 1 passenger under 17 who is not a family member is permitted.
Adults age 17 and older in Idaho can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. Drivers 17 and older are exempt from GDL restrictions. Idaho allows full licensure at 16 for teens who complete the GDL process.
Need your permit first?
Start with the learner's permit before your full license.
Idaho learner's permit guideCheck drivers ed requirements
Find out if drivers ed is required in Idaho.
Idaho drivers ed requirementsPrefer to learn online?
Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.
View Online CoursesThis information is based on Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) website for the most current information.