Frequently asked questions
HOW MUCH DOES THE TEST COST?
The test is $28.50, CASH ONLY. I do have change so you do not need to bring that exact amount. I do not accept credit or debit cards or other payment methods.
WHAT ARE THE VEHICLE REQUIREMENTS?
You provide the car for the test, the examiner does not provide a vehicle.
I will need a brief description of your vehicle when we schedule the test- just the make, model and color.
Make sure the vehicle you bring is:
INSURED: No test will be given if you do not show proof of current insurance for the vehicle. PAPER proof of insurance is preferred. You can show it on your phone but you must have that ready to display at the time of the test.
REGISTERED: The vehicle must have current, valid registration. It can be a temporary registration or be registered in another state, but it must be registered.
NO SERIOUS DEFECTS: Vehicle should have working lights, tires with legal tread, and no serious glass damage.
CLEAN: Glass and mirrors should be clean, and the interior of the vehicle should be reasonably clean for the examiner.
VEHICLE OWNERSHIP: You do not need to own the vehicle you bring to the test. If the owner is present, nothing else is required.
If the owner is NOT PRESENT, YOU MUST PROVIDE written permission to use the vehicle for the test. Permission slip should include the owner's name, phone number, and a short statement that (you) can use (car description) for the purpose of the road test to obtain an Idaho Driver's License. Owner should sign and date the permission slip.
WHAT ARE THE IDENTIFICATION AND PERMIT REQUIREMENTS?
To schedule a test, you will need to text me a photo of your Idaho Instruction Permit- just the front side. Driver applicants under 17 must have an Instruction permit. Make SURE you have reached your eligibility date to take the test. If you test early, you must repeat the entire test and pay another test fee.
If you do not have an instruction permit, I will need a photo of your ID card, Passport, or other government issued photo ID. If no instruction permit, send a photo of the receipt you were given at the DMV.
WHERE DO WE MEET FOR THE TEST?
All tests begin and end in the East parking lot of the Arctic Circle Drive In, 1625 W. Franklin Road, Meridian ID. Please park your car near the drive in window and I will find you. See photo below- park in highlighted area.
HOW LONG DOES THE TEST TAKE?
Normally, the driving portion of the test takes 20-25 minutes to complete. Your appointment will be for 40 minutes. In addition to the drive, we must complete your test paperwork, do a pre-trip light test to make sure the vehicle is safe to drive and test your ability to activate required lights. You will also be required to show the examiner you know where to find safety items inside the vehicle.
WHO CAN COME WITH ME DURING THE TEST?
The state has specific requirements on who may ride along during a test. Generally, one parent may accompany a driver under 18. Translators are allowed for non English speaking applicants. Other persons who may be allowed are Clergy or Law Enforcement. Call or text if you have specific questions.
pARENTS OR OTHERS WAITING FOR YOU?
Persons coming along with you to the test can wait inside the Arctic Circle if they make a purchase. (see TEST LOCATION for coupons). There is also a bench outside, and a convenience store next door.
WHEN DO YOU SCHEDULE TESTS?
I only test on weekdays between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. This is because Meridian traffic is VERY BUSY and to complete the state prescribed test route, trying to test earlier or later puts us in Rush Hour traffic. If you are in school, normally you can request a short absence to take the test.
DO NOT SPEAK ENGLISH?
I speak limited Spanish and have tested many Spanish speaking drivers without an interpreter. If you speak another language, I can test you if you provide your own interpreter to come with you to the test.