TSA begins REAL ID full enforcement on May 7, 2025

Generic Star Card with blonde man in beige collared shirt.

BOISE – On May 7, the Transportation Security Administration will no longer accept state-issued identifications that are not REAL ID compliant at security checkpoints. All airline passengers 18 years and older, including TSA PreCheck® members, must present REAL ID-compliant identification, also known as the Star Card in Idaho, or another acceptable ID, such as a passport, at TSA security checkpoints.

If you arrive at an airport without a Star Card or another acceptable document, you may be delayed and undergo additional examination. This can cause passengers to miss flights.

In Idaho, many DMV offices operate by appointment only, and availability may be several weeks out. Be sure to check with your local county driver’s license office. Remember, you can visit any county driver’s license office in the state for service. Additionally, it will take up to two weeks for a physical card to be mailed to you.
Please plan accordingly. Go to the DMV Star Card, Idaho’s REAL ID website to complete the checklist or use the helpful tool so that you bring the correct forms of documents you need.

www.itd.idaho.gov/starcard/

Other Acceptable Documents are:
• State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License
• U.S. passport
• U.S. passport card
• DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
• Permanent resident card
• Border crossing card
• An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs).
• HSPD-12 PIV card
• Foreign government-issued passport
• Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
• Transportation worker identification credential
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
• U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
• Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant and who do not have another acceptable alternative (e.g., passport) can expect to face delays, additional screening and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint.

Scam alert: fraudulent text messages claiming toll fines circulating in Idaho

BOISE – The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) is warning Idahoans about a phishing scam involving fraudulent text messages that claim recipients owe toll fines. These messages are not legitimate and should be ignored.

Idaho does not have toll roads, and ITD does not issue toll fines. If you receive a text message demanding payment for an alleged toll violation, do not click any links or provide personal information. If possible, report the message to your mobile carrier. You can also report scams and suspicious communications to the Federal Trade Commission.

Scammers often use official-sounding language and urgent threats to trick people into clicking on malicious links. ITD urges everyone to stay vigilant and remember:

Idaho has no toll roads.
ITD will never text you demanding payment.
ITD will only text you if you have opted into e-notifications.

For official transportation-related updates and services, always visit itd.idaho.gov.

Bridging Gaps: How Jeremy K. Wickard is Transforming Public Service

When Jeremy K. Wickard joined the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) in July 2019, he brought with him a wealth of experience, including time as an IT technician at state prisons. That role taught him the importance of addressing disconnects in communication—a lesson he carried into his work at ITD. Inspired by an off-hand suggestion from a manager who said, “You should have your own tracker” to capture public feedback, Jeremy set out to make ITD services more accessible and efficient for Idahoans.

The result was the Public Issue Tracker (PIT), a powerful tool designed to log and resolve public concerns. Launched officially in December 2024, the PIT is powered by Microsoft’s Power Apps and enables ITD’s DMV contact center to capture and track issues ranging from navigating the ITD portal to understanding all DMV offered services. “I wanted to provide clearer communication and actionable feedback,” Jeremy explained. “Not everyone speaks the language of statutes and codes, so this helps us meet people where they are.”

A Collaborative Effort
Jeremy credits much of the PIT’s success to his collaboration with Nicole Long, a colleague and DMV Program Specialist whose innovative thinking helped fill critical gaps during development. “Working with Nicole has been a blessing. Her ability to think outside the box is amazing. Without her efforts, this tool would not be what we need it to be. And she is willing to improve it as we learn of other gaps,” Jeremy said. Together, they created a system that empowers the public to resolve issues with confidence while improving efficiency for ITD’s contact center.

Improving Service, One Call at a Time
The PIT has been a game changer for ITD’s DMV contact center, which fields over 900 calls daily. With just 13 agents handling this volume, the tracker ensures faster, more accurate responses, leading to performance metrics that exceed expectations. Beyond improving day-to-day operations, Jeremy envisions the contact center evolving to include virtual communication tools like chat to better serve the public.

Looking Ahead
Despite its early success, the PIT is still evolving. Jeremy and his team are determining how best to expand its use, weighing whether it should remain within the DMV or become part of ITD’s broader innovation framework. “This is about more than resolving issues—it’s about fostering trust and creating a better experience for Idahoans,” Jeremy said.

As ITD continues to enhance its public services, Jeremy’s work with the Public Issue Tracker is a shining example of innovation and collaboration making a tangible difference for the people of Idaho.

Huge shout-out to all the members of the DMV contact center who had a hand in creating the Public Issue Tracker: Carly Mazurek, Cindy Francke, Jennifer Barraza, Karina Simental-Smith, Keenan Wallace, Lisa Helton, Lori Rowell, Melanie Metzger, Michelle Radford, Olga Nosalskaya, Scott Cates, and Theresa Thomas.

DMV reminds Idahoans to add “Next of Kin” to online account

The Idaho Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is encouraging all Idahoans to update their DMV profiles by adding a primary next of kin. This small step ensures that law enforcement or emergency services can quickly contact your loved ones in the event of an accident or emergency.

Over 124,465 Idahoans have already opted into this feature—don’t wait to join them! You can skip the trip to the DMV and make the update online in just a few steps.

Visit dmv.idaho.gov, click on “Log in to DMV online account,” and follow the instructions to add your primary next of kin. For added peace of mind, you can also include a secondary next of kin.

Currently, adding a next of kin is optional. However, starting July 1st, DMV representatives will ask customers to designate a primary and/or secondary contact or choose to opt out altogether. “Updating this information in your DMV profile is a small but important step that can make a big difference in a time of crisis,” said Lisa McClellan, DMV Administrator. “We encourage every Idahoan to take a moment to ensure their loved ones can be contacted when it matters most.”

For more information or assistance with your DMV online account, visit dmv.idaho.gov or contact DMV customer service at 208-584-4343.

Skip the trip. Stay prepared. Update your next of kin today!

ITD encourages full fee commercial vehicle customers to choose new expiration months to improve efficiency

A semi truck with front license plate partially covered.

The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) is working to improve customer service and streamline operations by addressing the annual influx of Full Fee commercial vehicle registration renewals in December and January. With thousands of registrations expiring during these two months, the high volume of transactions creates challenges in maintaining timely processing for all customers.

To mitigate this issue, ITD has been offering customers the option to select a different registration expiration month in their Full Fee renewal packets for the past three years. This initiative is designed to evenly distribute registration renewals throughout the year, enabling the Commercial Vehicle Services team to provide faster, more efficient support.

What Full Fee Customers Need to Know

Action Required for December/January Renewals
If you submit your Full Fee renewal without selecting an expiration month other than December or January, you will receive the following email when your renewal invoice is generated:

In order to serve our customers more efficiently and reduce the extremely high volume of renewals that come in every December and January, please select a vehicle registration expiration month that is not December or January, as indicated on the flyer that was included in your renewal packet.

Please be aware that if a month of expiration other than December or January is not selected, you will be assigned an expiration month for the 2026 renewal period.

If you have a preference on a month of expiration (other than December or January), do not pay the attached invoice. Instead, reply to this message and inform ITD which month you prefer your registration renewal, and a new invoice will be provided.

The email also explains payment options for the current invoice if you choose not to change expiration months at this time.

Default Assignment for Future Renewals
Customers who do not select an alternate expiration month will automatically be assigned a non-December/January expiration month for their 2026 renewal period.

By spreading the workload across all 12 months, ITD aims to improve processing times and ensure a smoother renewal process for everyone.

For questions or assistance, please contact the ITD Commercial Vehicle Services team at cvs@itd.idaho.gov or (208) 872-3163.

ITD reminds RV owners: renewals due by year-end

The Idaho Transportation Department is reminding all recreational vehicle (RV) owners that their RV registration renewals are due by the end of the year. To avoid any last-minute rush, ITD encourages RV owners to take advantage of online renewal options and “skip the trip” to the DMV. By renewing online, you can bypass waiting in line and handle the process from the comfort of your home. This convenient service is available 24/7 at dmv.idaho.gov.

“Renewing your RV registration online is quick, easy, and efficient,” said Idaho Transportation Department DMV Administrator, Lisa McClellan. “We know that many RV owners are preparing for travel or simply want to avoid the busy DMV offices, so we strongly encourage everyone to take advantage of the online tools available.”

Key Benefits of Renewing Online:

Convenience: Renew from anywhere, anytime—no need to visit a DMV office.

Time-Saving: Skip the lines and complete your renewal in minutes.

Instant Processing: Your renewal will be processed immediately, and you’ll receive your registration materials by mail.

To begin your online RV renewal or to find additional information on the renewal process, visit the ITD DMV website at dmv.idaho.gov

ITD is committed to providing Idaho residents with accessible, efficient, and secure services to ensure a smooth and hassle-free renewal experience. For those who may need additional assistance, ITD offers helpful customer service through the website and by phone.

DMV launches over-the-phone registration renewals

The Idaho Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is excited to announce the launch of a new phone queue dedicated to registration renewals. Customers will be able to renew an existing vehicle registration over the phone in addition to online, in person, by video appointment, or in office.

“We are always looking for ways to offer more options for our customers,” explained DMV Administrator Lisa McClellan. “The dedicated phone queue is a great option for customers who can’t make it to the DMV but aren’t ready do it themselves online.”

When customers call 208-584-4343 to renew their vehicle registration, they will be placed in a phone queue, and the next available agent—either from ITD or a county office—will assist them. County transactions processed through this system will continue to include the county’s administrative fee.

Over a dozen other transactions, including driver’s license renewals, change of address, and more, are available through the DMV’s online self-service portal at dmv.idaho.gov.

Twin Falls commercial registration office closed

Long line of cars behind a truckLong line of cars behind a truck

The Idaho Transportation Department has closed the Twin Falls commercial registration and permitting office due to staffing changes.

ITD is working to reestablish commercial registration and permitting at the Hollister Port of Entry. In the meantime, Magic Valley commercial vehicle customers can still conduct business in several ways.

E-mail – All e-mails must be sent to cvs@itd.idaho.gov. Please reference your Motor Carrier Account Number on the subject line of your message. Documents must be in PDF format and inserted into your message as an attachment.
Boise Headquarters (drop box only, no in-person services) – 11331 West Chinden, Building 8 (do not mail or express mail to this location).
Mail – Motor Carrier Services, PO Box 7129, Boise ID 83707 or Express mail – 3311 W State Street, Boise, Idaho 83703.
Appointment – To schedule an in-person or phone appointment, go to idaho.gov/poe.
- Huetter Port of Entry, 2 miles west of Coeur d’Alene on I-90. Phone 208-769-1551
- Lewiston Port of Entry, 1 mile east of Lewiston on US-12/US-95. Phone 208-799-4824
- Declo Port of Entry, MP 218.7 on I-84. Phone 208-878-6995
- Inkom Port of Entry, 8 miles south of Pocatello on I-15. Phone 208-775-3311
- Marsing Port of Entry, 6 miles south of State Highway 55/US 95. Phone 208-896-4814
- East Boise Port of Entry, 11 miles east of Boise on I-84. Phone 208-334-3272
- Sage Junction Port of Entry, 8 miles north of Roberts on I-15. Phone 208-228-3636
County DMV Office – County offices can register non-commercial vehicles; commercial-use power units through 26,000 pounds; farm-use power units through 60,000 pounds; annual renewal trailers; and permanent trailers.

All locations can process titles for private sale new purchases. Titles for dealer sales will be handled by the dealer.

Don’t want to come into the Port of Entry? Try pre-clearance devices

Inspector David Larsen looks on as trucks drive through the East Boise Port of Entry.

Here are some tips for your pre-clearance devices that may help you legally bypass the port.

Using your license plate for pre-clearance

Idaho weigh-in-motion stations are equipped with License Plate Readers (LPR) that read a vehicles plate number to then determine compliance based on all credentials and safety data that is linked to that plate number. This technology allows commercial vehicles to be screened without the need of a transponder.

The information listed below will help ensure that your license plate is read correctly when going through one of the locations.

Mount the plate in accordance of Idaho statue 49-428:
- Every license plate shall at all times be securely fastened to the vehicle to which it is assigned to prevent the plate from swinging, be at a height not less than twelve (12) inches from the ground, measuring from the bottom of the plate, be in a place and position to be clearly visible, and shall be maintained free from foreign materials and in a condition to be clearly legible, and all registration stickers shall be securely attached to the license plates and shall be displayed as provided in section 49-443(4), Idaho Code.
Ensure front-end safety equipment and license plate holders are not obscuring your license plate.
Bent and or distorted plates should be straightened out or replaced.

Using your transponder for pre-clearance

Your transponder should be placed in the top, center of your windshield where a rear-view mirror would be in a car, below any metal visors that could block the signal.

If you update your registration or any other vehicle information, you need to contact your transponder provider to keep your information up to date.

Washington administers the transponder program and database. Contact the Washington Service Center at (888) 877-8567 or visit the Washington DOT website.

If you are still having trouble gaining pre-clearance with your transponder, come into the port office to have one of our inspectors run a report to find out exactly WHY you are being pulled in.

File Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) online

A semi truck next to the East Boise Port of Entry building.

You can file your Form 2290 Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) online!

Although you cannot file your Form 2290 with the Idaho Transportation Department, all of the information that is needed to file with the IRS can be found below.

You can E-file and E-Pay your HVUT at the Trucking Tax Center website.

What will you need to E-File Form 2290?

You must have an employer identifier number (EIN). If you do not have an EIN, you can apply for one from the IRS online.
You must know the taxable gross weight of your vehicle(s). If you do not know, you can figure your taxable gross weight by using the instructions provided by the IRS.
Your name on your Form 2290 must be the same as the name on your EIN.
You must have a complete vehicle identification number (VIN).
You must have an email address.

Need more help? View the IRS guide for Form 2290.