West · Supervised Instruction Permit (SIP)
How to get your learner’s permit in Idaho
Idaho’s Supervised Instruction Permit is available at 14½ for teens enrolled in driver education. After driver ed, teens complete 50 supervised hours during a 6-month SIP period.
Idaho permit requirements at a glance
| Minimum age | 14½ — Under 17 requires enrollment in approved driver education |
|---|---|
| Official name | Supervised Instruction Permit (SIP) |
| Supervised practice | 50 hours, including 10 at night |
| Minimum holding period | 6 months |
| Issuing agency | Idaho Transportation Department — Division of Motor Vehicles (official source ↗) |
How easy is it to get licensed in Idaho?
Our Ease Score weighs starting age, practice hours, and waiting time. See how it works & the full 50-state ranking →
- Starting age
- 14½
- Practice hours
- 50 hours
- Waiting time
- 6 months
Longer bars = easier. Overall: 51/100. Easiest in the West: Alaska (#2) . Nationally, Arkansas is #1 and Maryland is #50.
Did you know? Maine requires 70 supervised hours — the most of any state. See for yourself →
⏳ Count down to your Idaho permit date · ⚔️ Compare Idaho with another state · 📝 Track your practice hours
Steps to get your permit in Idaho
- Confirm you’re eligible. You must be at least 14½ (under 17 requires enrollment in approved driver education). If you’re under 18, a parent or legal guardian will need to sign your application.
- Study the official Idaho driver manual. The knowledge test is based on it — download it free from the Idaho Transportation Department — Division of Motor Vehicles site. Focus on road signs, right-of-way, and Idaho’s specific teen-driving (GDL) restrictions.
- Gather your documents. Plan on proof of identity (certified birth certificate or valid passport), your Social Security number, two proofs of Idaho residency, and — in many states — proof of school enrollment. The exact list is on the official Idaho Transportation Department — Division of Motor Vehicles page.
- Apply, pass the vision screening, and take the knowledge test. Most offices recommend or require an appointment, and a fee applies at application — check current fees on the official site, as they change periodically.
- Practice with a qualifying supervising driver. Idaho requires 50 hours, including 10 at night. Keep a signed log — you'll certify it later.
- Hold your permit for the required period. In Idaho, that's 6 months. Then schedule your road test for the next license stage.
Idaho learner’s permit FAQ
How old do you have to be to get a learner's permit in Idaho?
The minimum age is 14½ (under 17 requires enrollment in approved driver education). Idaho calls this credential the Supervised Instruction Permit (SIP).
How many supervised driving hours does Idaho require?
Idaho requires 50 hours, including 10 at night. A parent, guardian, or qualifying licensed adult must certify the hours.
How long do you have to hold a learner's permit in Idaho?
The minimum holding period is 6 months before you can move to the next license stage.
Can you drive alone with a learner's permit in Idaho?
No. In every US state, a permit holder must be supervised by a qualifying licensed adult seated in the front passenger seat. Driving alone on a permit can lead to citations and can delay your license.
Is Idaho an easy state to get licensed in?
Idaho ranks #8 of 50 on our Ease Score (51/100), which weighs starting age, required practice hours, and the permit waiting period. Arkansas is the easiest state in the nation and Maryland is the toughest.