Idaho DMV tightens identity rules for new profiles July 1

Kootenai County residents setting up a new Idaho DMV profile on July 1 will need to bring a valid government-issued photo ID in person before the Division of Motor Vehicles will move them forward.

The update reflects statutory changes enacted during the 2026 legislative session and applies under Idaho Code 49-306, 49-401B and 49-504. It keeps identity-verification practices consistent across DMV services statewide and guards against document and identity fraud.

For a new profile, the ID must show the customer’s full legal name, date of birth and photograph. The list of acceptable documents is broad and includes Idaho and out-of-state driver’s licenses or identification cards, U.S. Department of Homeland Security documents, U.S. military identification, U.S. and foreign passports, Idaho concealed weapons permits, Native American photo identification, corrections-issued ID cards and Mexican Consular IDs. Certified birth documents may also be accepted when they are paired with photo identification.

More steps apply to Idaho’s REAL ID-compliant Star Card. New applicants must provide proof of lawful presence, an acceptable photo identity document, two proofs of Idaho residency and a Social Security number that verifies with the Social Security Administration. The DMV treats a person as a new applicant if that person has never been issued an Idaho credential, is surrendering a credential from another jurisdiction or has an Idaho credential that has been expired for 25 months or more.

The Idaho DMV works with all 44 counties to provide motor vehicle services and secure identity credentials. That includes people who need a license, an ID card or updated records for work, travel or school-related paperwork.

Residents with questions can check the Idaho DMV website or call the customer contact line at 208-584-4343 before they show up at a local office with the wrong paperwork.