Idaho License Plate Lookup

If you’re planning a move to Idaho, the Gem State, be aware that the Idaho Transportation Department is responsible for all vehicle-related matters, including titling, registration, and license plate issuance, through its Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Once you become a resident, you have 90 days to register and title your vehicle. If you are considering to buy a used car in Idaho make sure you do a license plate lookup first.

Potato Plates

The state has a unique approach to personalized license plates, allowing motorists to choose from a wide array of custom plate designs. Among these, Idaho offers a famous “Famous Potatoes” license plate that celebrates its status as a major potato-producing state. This quirky tribute to their agricultural prowess is a hit among residents and helps promote one of the state’s most iconic products.

Which One is the License Plate Number?

The big, bold numbers required to be mounted on the front and rear of your vehicle is your license plate number. You can also find it on your car-related documents, such as the renewal postcard or registration card/certificate.

While the online renewal system has changed, you should still receive a renewal postcard which contains the license plate number

How Do I Get License Plates in Idaho?

First, make sure you’ve completed the titling and registration process. The vehicle also needs to undergo a VIN inspection beforehand.

You also need to furnish the following:

• Current title and registration
• Bill of sale, if applicable
• Odometer disclosure, if applicable
• Lienholder details, if applicable
• Proof of identification
• Payment of all applicable fees and taxes

If you bought a new car from a licensed dealer in the state, that dealer will prepare a titling application and file it on your behalf.

Be sure to also have auto insurance once you get a car. If you don’t have any coverage for two consecutive months, you’ll be given a warning. If you still don’t get coverage within 30 days, you can have your vehicle registration suspended.

Idaho residents currently in another state (temporarily) can request for their request titles and registrations via mail.

For additional information, contact the local county assessor’s motor vehicle office or visit the DMV’s website.

Available Plate Designs in Idaho

Standard: The default plate is the Scenic Idaho plate first introduced in 2008.

Personalized: Personalized plates allow for up to six or seven alphanumeric characters in a combination of your choice, depending on the plate design you choose. Like any other personalized plate in other states, you can’t include combinations that are vulgar, obscene, or in poor taste.

Disabled plates: Persons with disabilities will need to get medical certification for their (temporary or permanent) disability by a licensed medical professional when applying for these plates.

Persons with disabilities can apply for a placard or a plate. Temporary placards are only valid for a period of one to six months.

Military plates: These are issued to former serving, or active duty, members of any US military outfit. Plates are also available for those who are medal recipients (i.e., Purple Heart).

Special plates: This refers to unique plates for organizations, charitable groups, and so forth. These organizations or groups may have a unique style or design of plates, and the criteria for this style may vary from state to state. Available designs include:

• Collegiate plates
• Conservation/wildlife plates
• Sports teams/events
• Government programs
• Awareness programs