Category: DMV

Idahoans who order new license plates can now track their plate through the shipping process. The Idaho Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has added plate tracking to the DMV’s online portal.  

“Customers are used to tracking their online orders, so it was natural to add that feature to our online portal,” explained DMV Administrator Lisa McClellan. “This was also a case where we could provide better service and save money.” 

In addition to package tracking, the DMV’s new plate mailing system saves taxpayer dollars on postage. Previously equal amounts of postage were applied to all packages regardless of distance to save on labor. The new automated system applies the correct amount of postage based on destination and has address validation, which prevents mailing plates to incorrect or non-existent addresses. The DMV anticipates saving $100,000 a year on postage.  

To track a plate, customers must sign in or create their DMV online account at www.dmv.idaho.gov. Navigate to the “Garage” and select the vehicle the plate was ordered for. There will be an option to “Track plate order” in the vehicle services menu. 

After clicking that button, the customer will see the date that the order was mailed, a tracking number, and a link to track the package through the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). If the plate has not been mailed yet there will not be tracking information available.

License plates typically take 4-6 weeks to manufacture and ship.  

The DMV’s website, www.dmv.idaho.gov, is a one-stop-shop for everything DMV. Over a dozen transactions can be completed online, from a change of address to registration renewals. Text and email notifications are also available. Customers searching the web should be wary of imitation and scam websites claiming to offer DMV services. The safest option is always to type www.dmv.idaho.gov directly into your browser bar. Skip the Trip, save time, and go online to dmv.idaho.gov.    

The federal REAL ID deadline is May 7, 2025 – exactly one year from today. At that time, travelers will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card issued by the state, like an Idaho Star Card, or another acceptable form of identification to board a commercial flight. The Idaho Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is encouraging all Idahoans to plan to get a Star Card or other REAL ID.

“A year seems like a long time, but May 2025 will be here before we know it. Don’t wait until the last minute! We anticipate DMV offices could get very busy as that deadline starts to get closer,” encouraged DMV Administrator Lisa McClellan. “And if you’ve had a Star Card for a while, check the expiration date and make a plan to renew if needed. If your information is the same when you renew the new card will also be a Star Card.”

Currently, approximately 49% of Idahoans with a driver’s license or ID have their Star Card.

“We are encouraged that nearly half of Idahoans have the Star Card, making them REAL ID-compliant a year ahead of the date when TSA will begin enforcing REAL ID requirements for travelers,” said Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Federal Security Director Andy Coose. “Please remember that TSA currently accepts multiple forms of photo identification from travelers as part of our identity verification process in the security checkpoint. Please take a few minutes today to ensure that you have a plan so that you are in compliance with identification requirements starting May 7, 2025, and beyond.”

“Although other approved documents, like a passport, can be used to board a plane or enter a federal facility after May 7, 2025, the Idaho Star Card is the most convenient, while at the same time providing adequate security for the traveling public.  I encourage all Idahoans to apply for their Idaho Star Card soon, before the May 7 deadline approaches next year,” said Idaho Lieutenant Governor Scott Bedke.

To get a Star Card, applicants need one document proving their identity, one with their social security number, and two proving Idaho residency. The Idaho DMV has an online tool called “Add the Star” at itd.idaho.gov/starcard. It generates a custom list of documents to bring to a DMV to get a Star Card. Please note that some county DMV locations require appointments.

May 7, 2025, is the date federal officials will begin checking for compliant cards. The Idaho DMV will continue to offer Star Cards and non-Star Card licenses and ID cards after that date. If someone chooses not to get a Star Card, the standard Idaho driver’s license is still a valid document for all lawful driving purposes.

Beginning today, April 8, Idahoans will need to dial new phone numbers to reach the Idaho Division of Motor Vehicles. The DMV has new phone service provider which required changing phone numbers. With the new provider, the DMV will be able to offer better customer service and faster calls. 

The new numbers are as follows: 

• The new DMV general customer line is 208-584-4343 
• The new DMV commercial vehicle customer line is 208-872-3163  

The “old” DMV number, 208-334-8000, will still be in service for Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) business not related to DMV. For a period of time, customers who call ITD looking for the DMV will be given the new number. 

“We take about 2,000 calls a day at the DMV,” explained DMV administrator Lisa McClellan, “We’ve been working since early February, setting up and testing the new system to ensure a smooth transition for all those customers.” 

The DMV’s business hours are 8 am to 5 pm Mountain Time, Monday to Friday. In addition to calling the DMV, customers can complete over a dozen transactions online at any time of day or night at dmv.idaho.gov, or visit a county office to have their questions answered in person. County business hours vary by location. 

Beginning on April 8, Idahoans will need to dial new phone numbers to reach the Idaho Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The DMV is changing to a new phone service provider which requires changing phone numbers. With the new provider, the DMV will be able to offer better customer service and faster calls. 

The new numbers, one for the general public and one for commercial vehicle customers, will be announced to the public on Monday, April 8. The “old” DMV number, 208-334-8000, will still be in service for Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) business not related to DMV. For a period of time, customers who call ITD looking for the DMV will be given the new number. 

“We take about 2,000 calls a day at the DMV,” explained DMV administrator Lisa McClellan, “We’ve been working since early February, setting up and testing the new system to ensure a smooth transition for all those customers.” 

In addition to calling the DMV, customers can complete over a dozen transactions online dmv.idaho.gov or visit a county office to have their questions answered in person. 

Beginning January 1, 2024, the Idaho Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will offer titles and registrations for concession trailers. After careful consideration and consultation with lenders and industry partners, the DMV has determined that concession trailers more closely align with utility trailers and should be titled and registered. 

For all existing concession trailer owners, a title and registration will be optional yet encouraged. For concession trailers purchased after January 1, 2024, title and registration will be mandatory.  

“Concession trailers existed in a gray area that created challenges for their owners. Because they were not treated as vehicles, it was difficult to secure interest,” explained Vehicle Services Manager CJ Kendrick. “We consulted with industry stakeholders and determined offering title and registration was the best path forward.” 

There are several benefits to obtaining a title and registration. It provides a commonly recognized proof of ownership and a legal right to tow on highways. 

Owners who want to title their concession trailer should bring all ownership and/or purchase documentation to a local DMV office so they can assist with the titling process. Owners must also bring the concession trailer, as a VIN inspection is required. Title and registration costs will vary by county and length of registration term. 

Please note concession trailers are food service trailers pulled by another vehicle and are distinct from food trucks. Food trucks are powered vehicles and were already subject to title and registration requirements.