Applicants under 18 need an adult to take legal responsibility and proof they're in school. Anyone can also add a star (Real ID) and optional notes to the card, such as organ donor or veteran status.
Know the rule
Under 17: bring proof you completed an approved driver's training program and met the supervised instruction permit requirement.
Handbook p. 25 ↗Liability signer
A parent or legal guardian who signs consent for a driver under 18 to be licensed and assumes legal responsibility for the young driver's actions.
Handbook p. 26 ↗Know the rule
If the signer isn't the mother or father on your birth certificate, bring legal proof of authority (adoption records with updated birth certificate, or court-ordered guardianship papers).
Handbook p. 26 ↗Know the rule
A signer who can't come to the county DMV must complete a power of attorney form giving someone else authority to sign.
Handbook p. 26 ↗Know the rule
While you are under 18, the liability signer may withdraw consent at any time, and the department will then cancel your driving credential.
Handbook p. 26 ↗Know the rule
If you are married, your spouse may sign for you, as long as your spouse is at least 18.
Handbook p. 26 ↗Verification of School Compliance (VOC)
Proof, for applicants under 18, of enrollment and attendance in or graduation from a recognized high school or equivalent: a VOC slip, diploma, or general education certificate.
Handbook p. 26 ↗Extra documents for a Star Card (Real ID):
- Proof of identity, photo, and lawful presence (e.g., certified birth certificate)
- Name change documents, if applicable (e.g., certified marriage certificate)
- Social Security number for verification with the SSA
- Two proofs of Idaho residency with physical address
Know the rule
Donor designation: at 15 or older you may request 'DONOR' on your card; under 18 you need consent from a parent or adult guardian. You may also give an extra $2 to the organ donation fund.
Handbook p. 27 ↗Know the rule
Veteran's designation requires a DD214 form showing honorable discharge (other documents are listed on the ITD website).
Handbook p. 27 ↗Know the rule
You may request a notation on the back of your card about medical conditions, to alert emergency personnel.
Handbook p. 28 ↗A 'permanently disabled' notation requires:
- A permanent disability
- Written certification from a licensed physician, physician's assistant, or advanced-practice nurse
- Meeting all other requirements for the license, permit, or ID card
- Or: the registration document for non-expiring disability placards or plates
Know the rule
Federal law requires all males 18 to 25 to register with the Selective Service System, which is notified of applicants who say they have not registered.
Handbook p. 28 ↗Put it into practice
You're 16 and your stepfather will sign as liability signer. Because he isn't the father on your birth certificate, bring court-ordered guardianship or adoption papers, plus your school's VOC slip.