License Plate FAQs

Where do I go to obtain new license plates?

Go to one of the 44 County Assessor's Motor Vehicle Offices for new plates. Keep in mind that you may obtain certain specialized license plates there, too.

I spend a lot of my time in Idaho, but still carry Oregon plates on my vehicle. At what point do I need to obtain Idaho license plates?

All Idaho residents must register their vehicles with the state. Obviously, you make yourself a resident of Idaho once you obtain an Idaho driver license, but other circumstances will also render you an Idaho resident with respect to the law.

You become a resident of the state when your home has been within the Idaho borders for 90 consecutive days. This is true for full-time students who are current residents of other states; they may declare Idaho as their state of residence if they wish. To declare residency, you'll need to get an Idaho driver license and provide documentation, like a utility bill, pay stub, or school registration forms, with an Idaho address.

How can I obtain replacement license plates if my old ones have been lost or stolen?

If the license plates were stolen, report the theft to police immediately. You will also have to cancel the plates with the County Assessor.

While at the County Assessor's, you will have to submit your Idaho title and fill out the appropriate forms. You will be given replacement plates that will expire on the same date as the previously stolen plates.

For plates that have been lost or damaged beyond recognition, simply go see your County Assessor's Motor Vehicles Office. With your proof of Idaho title and current registration you will receive replacement plates that will stay current for the duration of your current registration.

If I am a new resident of Idaho, what do I need to register my vehicle in the state?

New residents of Idaho must register their vehicles within 90 days. In order to register your vehicle at the County Assessor's Motor Vehicles Offices, you must first acquire Idaho title.

For a used vehicle, the title should show that the vehicle has been released from the lienholder or prior owner. For new vehicles, a Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin must be shown where the dealer releases the vehicle and assigns it to the owner.

The title should also include an Odometer Disclosure Statement if the vehicle is under 10 years old and 16,000 lbs. GVW.

You will also need to submit a bill of sale, if the price you paid for the vehicle is not on the title.

Along with these forms, a Vehicle Identification Number Inspection must be completed. This inspection may be done by a law enforcement officer, county assessor, motor vehicle inspector, DMV employee, military police officer, or Idaho licensed vehicle dealer.

If applying for Idaho title through the mail, also include a Power of Attorney authorizing the County Assessor to sign the owner's application. This Power of Attorney needs to contain a full description of the vehicle and the owner/applicant's signature.

There is an $8 title fee. There is also a registration fee, but these vary by county and type of vehicle. Contact your local County Assessor's Motor Vehicles Office for the registration fees.

How can I acquire personalized or specialty license plates for my vehicle?

Order personal license plates online, or by fax and mail through the Idaho Transportation Department. Some types of specialty plates are also available when you register your vehicle at the county assessor's office.

To obtain extensive information on the types and styles of personalized and specialty license plates visit the ITD on the web, or call its offices at (208) 334-8649 Mountain Standard Time between 8:30a and 5:00p.

Does Idaho issue antique plates?

Yes. Actually, the state has four types of antique plates.

For information on how to apply and the requirements for each plate, see our License Plates & Placards page.

Do I have to surrender my Idaho license plates after relocating to a new state?

No.