In Idaho, drivers aged 63 and older have different renewal requirements compared to younger drivers. These requirements help ensure that senior drivers remain safe on the road while also providing them with convenient ways to renew their licenses. Here’s an overview of the renewal frequency, methods, and documentation required for seniors in Idaho.
Renewal Frequency and Age Requirements
Seniors (63 and older): Drivers aged 63 and older must renew their driver’s licenses every four years. This is a shorter renewal cycle compared to the general population, which can renew their licenses every eight years.
Eight-Year Renewal Option: Seniors cannot choose the eight-year renewal cycle available to drivers under 63. This means they must follow the shorter four-year renewal term.
Renewal Methods
In-Person Renewal for Drivers 70 and Older: Drivers aged 70 and older are required to renew their driver’s license in person at a DMV office. This is to ensure that their physical and mental health are properly evaluated.
Online and Mail Renewal (For Drivers 63-69): Drivers between the ages of 63 and 69 may be eligible to renew their license online or by mail, but only if they meet certain criteria. Online renewal is available for drivers who:
Are between 21 and 69 years old.
Have a valid Idaho Class D license or ID card.
Have not renewed by mail in the last eight years.
Are not changing their name or endorsements.
Have not had their license expired for more than 25 months.
Mail renewal is available only once every eight years and requires an invitation from the DMV.
Requirements for Renewal
Vision Screening: All drivers, including seniors, must pass a vision screening at each renewal. If the vision screening is failed, a vision exam form from an eye doctor may be required.
Written Knowledge and Road Tests: Seniors are not required to take a written knowledge test or road test based on age alone. However, a road test may be required if:
The license has been expired for more than 25 months.
There are concerns about the driver’s physical or mental ability.
A family member, doctor, or law enforcement has requested an unsafe driver investigation.
Documentation and Fees
In-Person Renewal: When renewing in person, seniors must bring:
Proof of identity and Idaho residency.
Social Security number.
The renewal fee for seniors is currently $30 for a four-year license. Additional administrative fees may apply depending on the renewal method.
New Photo: A new photo will be taken at the time of renewal.
Additional Notes
Safety and Senior Drivers: Statistically, seniors are among the safest drivers, but Idaho has specific rules to ensure their safety on the road.
Online Renewal: The Idaho DMV encourages eligible drivers to renew their license online to reduce wait times at DMV offices.
Fee Reduction: Idaho has considered legislation to reduce the renewal fee for seniors from $35 to $30 to ease the financial burden.
Sources:
1. https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/idaho-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html
2. https://itd.idaho.gov/news/help-us-help-others-renew-online-if-you-can/
3. https://zutobi.com/us/id-car/driver-guides/idaho-drivers-license-renewal
4. https://www.thezebra.com/resources/driving/driving-rules-seniors/
