Registration Renewal in Idaho

1) Determine the Status of Your Registration

Renew ID Registration

You must renew your vehicle's registration annually to avoid running afoul with the law. In addition, you must also maintain car insurance at all times. If you're in the market for lower rates, you'll find a variety of quotes from numerous carriers at our Insurance Center. To proceed further with your registration renewal, scroll down to the Check Your Renewal Notice section below.

Register a Vehicle in ID for the First Time

If you're new to the state or recently purchased a vehicle, you must complete a first-time registration. You can learn how at our car registration page.

Register a Non-Operational Vehicle

You do not have to notify the DMV if you're planning on taking your vehicle off the road.

If the registration expires while the vehicle in non-operational, here's what to do when you want to resume driving it again:

1. Have your expired registration.
2. Have proof of insurance.
3. Have the registration fee.
4. Visit your County Assessor's office.

If you keep your vehicle off the road for less than 12 months, you must pay the full yearly registration fee when you attempt to register it again.

2) Check Your Renewal Notice

Your renewal postcard should arrive in the mail within the first week of the month your registration expires. If it does not arrive, contact your County Assessor.

You'll need the renewal notification's postcard number in order to renew online, if, of course, your county offers the online option. If you live in Northern Ada County, your renewal notice may also indicate whether it's time for an emissions test.

3) Calculate Your Fees

You can find your registration fee on your renewal postcard. Many factors come into play in determining a registration fee, including the vehicle's age, model, your county of residence, and inspection requirements. In general, registration fees are similar to insurance rates in that the newer the model the higher the fees.

Avoid Late Fees and Penalties

There are no late registration fees.

4) Renew Online, In Person or By Mail

Renew Online

1. Check the state list to make sure you live in a county eligible for online renewal.
2. Make sure your vehicle's emissions testing is current, if applicable.
3. Have your renewal postcard. You need the postcard number to begin online processing.
4. Have a Visa, American Express, Discover, or MasterCard ready to pay the fee.
5. Log on to the online renewal site and follow the instructions.

Your registration certificate and tabs should arrive in the mail within two weeks.

In Person

1. Have your renewal postcard.
2. If necessary, make sure your vehicle has had its annual emissions inspection.
3. Be able to show proper ID.
4. Locate proof of insurance.
5. Have the appropriate registration fee.
6. Visit your County Assessor's office.

By Mail

1. Have your renewal postcard.
2. Check for any information regarding your vehicle's annual emissions inspection.
3. Write a check for the amount printed on the renewal postcard.
4. Mail to the address listed on the renewal postcard.

Expect your registration certificate and tabs to arrive in the mail within two weeks.

5) Affix Your Stickers

Attach your registration stickers to the rear plate. Included instructions will direct where to apply them.

6) Get a Tax Deduction

This option, according to the DMV, is only available for commercial vehicles. You may want to consult a tax attorney for more on this topic.

7) Do Your Part to Keep Our Roadways Safe

There are more ways than just wearing a seat belt to remain safe on the road. For instance, regularly changing the oil, taking your vehicle in for annual tune ups, and rotating and replacing the tires are all smart preventive maintenance practices that will keep your car running safely and smoothly.

In addition, you should protect yourself against any mechanical surprises and subscribe with a roadside assistance program, invest in an after-market warranty, and find a mechanic who values honesty.

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