Idaho DMV and Canyon County Join Forces to Expand Real ID Services

Idaho’s Department of Motor Vehicles is working with county partners to meet surging demand for the state’s Real ID—known locally as the Star Card. In late July the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) announced a partnership with the Canyon County Motor Vehicle office aimed at alleviating long waits and ensuring residents can get their Real ID credentials without traveling to other counties. The announcement noted that demand for Real ID credentials is growing quickly in Canyon County. To expand capacity, ITD will station DMV staff at the Canyon County office to issue driver’s licenses and state identification cards, while the county’s motor vehicle staff will begin issuing Real ID credentials in addition to their traditional vehicle‑registration services【590496793614471†L62-L71】. By bringing licensing and credential issuance under one roof, the agencies hope to reduce lines and deliver “timely, high‑quality service,” an approach that has already proven successful in Ada County【590496793614471†L62-L72】.

The partnership means that Canyon County residents will be able to apply for a Real ID—Idaho’s compliant driver’s license or ID card—at their local motor vehicle office. Real ID cards have a star in the upper right corner and meet federal security requirements for boarding commercial flights and entering federal facilities. Applicants must provide original or certified copies of identity documents (such as a birth certificate or passport), proof of Social Security number, and two proofs of Idaho residency. ITD will have staff on site to verify documents and produce the cards, while Canyon County clerks handle other motor vehicle transactions. Canyon County will continue to provide its primary services, such as vehicle titles and registrations, while Real ID issuance adds another layer of convenience for residents.

ITD officials described the partnership as an example of state and local collaboration. DMV Administrator Lisa McClellan praised the county for stepping up to serve Idahoans, noting that the program builds on successful efforts in Ada County【590496793614471†L75-L79】. Officials encourage residents to visit the Star Card website to learn what documents are required and to plan ahead to avoid delays【590496793614471†L80-L81】. With the federal enforcement deadline for Real ID now in effect as of May 7, 2025, Idahoans who want to fly or access secure federal buildings need to have a compliant credential. The new partnership should make it easier for Canyon County residents to obtain the required ID and keep their travel plans on track.