How to Pass Your Idaho Road Test: The Ultimate Guide

A driver’s license is a huge privilege and responsibility. To ensure that teens are ready to take on this responsibility, Idaho requires all drivers under the age of 18 to complete a graduated driver’s license program and take a road skills test. Drivers over 18 go through a less complicated process.

But there is no need to worry. In this guide, we will help you prepare for and pass your Idaho road test by breaking down the process and helping you focus on what’s important.

Idaho Road Test Requirements

There are a number of requirements that you’ll have to complete before taking the road test. Check out the list below to make sure that you’re ready.

If you’re under 18, you must:

• Have gotten a learner’s permit at a driver licensing office.
  • After reaching the age of 14 ½, you’ve applied for your Driver Training permit at a driver licensing office. You’ve presented the correct documentation and passed the knowledge and vision tests.
  • You’ve enrolled in an approved driver training program.
  • You’ve completed the required 30 hours of classroom instruction, six hours of behind-the-wheel, and six hours of observation.

• You’ve practiced driving for a minimum of 50 hours with a licensed supervisor. These driving hours must be verified by a parent/guardian.
• You’ve reached the minimum age of 15.
• You’ve had your permit for at least six months.
• You have had no violations.
• You have permission from a parent/guardian to get a license.

If you’re age 18 or over, you’ll simply be required to present the correct documentation at a DMV and pass the vision, written, and road tests.

Taking the Idaho Driving Test

When you’re ready to take your road test, schedule an appointment at a DMV near you. Then prepare for the big day by practicing your driving, checking your vehicle, and collecting the documents you’ll need.

What Should You Bring to the DMV?

The Idaho DMV requires a number of documents for the road test, you’ll have to present these to your examiner before you’ll be allowed to begin the test. Make sure that you have the following documents with you:

• Social security number or card.
• Birth certificate.
• Proof of age and identity.
• Proof of residency.
• Verification of School Compliance if you’re under 18.
• Proof of Driver Training completion if you’re under 17.
• Acceptable lawful presence documents (if applicable).
• Fees.

Bring your learner’s permit if you have one. Additionally, if you’re under 18, you’ll need to have a parent/guardian with you.

Vehicle Requirements

A vehicle inspection takes place before the actual driving test begins. You must locate and identify the following items and demonstrate that they are working correctly.

Check your:

• Mirrors
• Defroster and windshield wipers
• Horn
• Windows and doors
• Brakes and emergency/parking brakes
• Headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights
• Seatbelt
• Tires

If any of these items aren’t working or you don’t know how to use them, you may be prevented from taking the driving test. Additionally, your vehicle should be properly registered and insured. Make sure you have proof of both with you.

What Maneuvers are Tested on the Road Test in Idaho?

You’ll be tested on overall driving ability and a number of driving maneuvers. Make sure that you’re comfortable with performing the following:

• Parking and backing: Be able to park and back your vehicle on a street or in a parking lot.
• Driving safely: Be able to drive safely in all types of areas including a parking lot, in a residential area, in a business district, and on the highway. Don’t drive over the speed limit and leave a good following distance between you and other vehicles.
• Turns: Be able to make right and left turns correctly while using your turn signals and turning from the correct lane. Make sure that you slow down and check traffic before making a turn.
• Intersections: Be able to navigate intersections properly, stopping at the correct point and yielding right-of-way to other drivers. Obey all signs and signals.
• Changing lanes: When changing lanes, use your turn signals and make head checks. Once it’s safe, make the lane change deliberately. Don’t change lanes unnecessarily and try to stay in the center of your lane.

What Errors Can Make You Fail Your Road Test?

You may make up to 15 minor mistakes and still pass the road test in Idaho. However, if you make a major mistake, you’ll automatically fail your test.

Major mistakes include:

• A serious driving error or dangerous action.
• An accident or near accident.
• Violation of the law.
• Lack of cooperation.

If you fail your road test, you’ll have to wait three days before you can take it again. Use that time to practice driving.

That’s It!

That’s everything you need to know about passing the Idaho driving test. We hope this guide has helped you out, and that you now feel comfortable with the steps moving forward.

If you need any help studying for your upcoming exams, then Zutobi is the perfect study guide with online practice tests, a summarized handbook, and practical driving tips that will help you immensely during the actual road exam.