Idaho Traffic Violations

A traffic violation happens when a person operates a motor vehicle against the law. Title 18 and 49 of the Idaho Code establish the traffic law framework in Idaho. These rules are enforced by the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD), while the unified court system interprets them. To avoid costly fines and legal issues, Idaho drivers should understand what counts as a traffic violation, the most common types of offenses, how penalties and license points are applied, and how to check their official driving records.

What Is Considered a Traffic Violation in Idaho?

In Idaho, it is against the law for any individual to operate a vehicle in violation of traffic rules or without a valid license and insurance. Unlike criminal traffic offenses like reckless driving or DUIs, minor offenses are considered infractions. Also, it is illegal to drive a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08%, and the state law sets lower limits for drivers under 21 and for those holding a commercial driver’s license.

Types of Traffic Violations in Idaho

The most common types of traffic violations in Idaho are:

• Speeding / Basic rule violations – The basic rule for speeding is outlined in Idaho Code § 49-654, which states that no person may drive a vehicle faster than is reasonable and safe for the road, weather conditions, or traffic.
• Failure to yield – This action is considered a violation of the Idaho Code § 49-642, which requires a driver entering or crossing a highway from any place other than another highway to give the right-of-way to all approaching vehicles.
• Driving without a license or while privileges are suspended (DWP) –Under Idaho Code § 49-301, individuals must possess a valid driver’s license to operate a motor vehicle on public highways.
• Driving without insurance – In Idaho, driving without liability insurance is prohibited under Idaho Code § 49-402, which mandates that all motor vehicles operated on public roads must be insured and registered.
• Reckless/Inattentive driving – Idaho Code § 49-1401 considers reckless or inattentive driving as careless acts that can endanger both lives and property.
• Hit-and-run (leaving the scene) – Failing to stop or render aid after certain crashes is a violation of Idaho Code § 49-1301. This statute requires drivers involved in accidents to stop and assist anyone who is injured.
• Distracted driving / mobile devices – Drivers may only use mobile devices while driving if they are hands-free or used in an emergency.

Traffic Violation Penalties in Idaho

The state of Idaho uses a point system to track traffic offenses committed within the state. A driver’s record accumulates between 1 to 4 points with each moving violation. Within 12 months, drivers who reach 12 to 17 points can face a 30-day license suspension by the ITD.

Additionally, the ITD can suspend a driver’s license for 90 days if the driver earns between 18 to 23 points within 24 months. An accumulation of 24 points or more within 36 months can lead to the suspension of the driver’s license for 180 days.

Moreover, the ITD permits drivers to reduce their total point accumulation once every three years by completing a city-sponsored Traffic Safety Education Course (TSC) or Defensive Driving Course (DDC). Nevertheless, completing any of the courses does not remove convictions from the driving record.

Fines, license actions, and jail exposure

• Insurance violations: According to the ITD’s Guide, a first offense for failing to provide insurance is an infraction and results in a one-year license suspension. A second offense within five years becomes a misdemeanor and results in a three-year suspension.
• Reckless/inattentive driving: In Idaho, these actions are considered misdemeanors punishable by up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.
• DUI: Under Idaho law, a DUI is considered excessive when the driver’s blood alcohol concentration is 0.20% or higher at the time of the stop. The enhanced penalties associated with this action include high fines and long license suspensions.

Insurers can set their rates based on the conviction records reported to the ITD.

How to Search for Traffic Violation Records in Idaho

The two major methods used to search for traffic violation records in Idaho include:

1. Court case (ticket) records – iCourt Portal

The iCourt Portal allows users to look up traffic cases by driver’s name, citation number, or case number. It displays full case information, including the type of offense and the outcomes.

1. Driver license history – ITD (MVR/DLR)

The ITDmaintains driver license records and can provide either a full history or a three-year summary to requesters. To facilitate requests, anyone can request a summary through theDriver License Record Search portal. Nevertheless, it is necessary to complete Form ITD-3120 and mail it to the address listed on the form to acquire a full driver's license history.

Upon request, anyone can access filings, citations, and judgments in Idaho traffic cases. Nonetheless, the Idaho Court Administrative Rules (ICAR) 32 prohibit access to sealed, restricted, and juvenile records.

How Long Do Traffic Violations Stay on Record in Idaho?

The ITD tracks accumulated points over a 12-, 24-, or 36-month period, depending on the penalty. License suspensions remain on file until resolved and can appear on a driver’s record.

Accumulated points are tracked over 12, 24, or 36 months by the ITD, depending on the penalty. Therefore, license suspensions stay on record for the suspension period and may appear on driving histories afterward.

The online Driver License Record (DLR) shows 3 years of history for most requests. However, to obtain an extensive or certified driving record, requesters can complete and submit Form ITD-3120 by mail.

Since Idaho does not allow general expungement of traffic convictions, these violations remain on the record to track points, enforce suspensions, and oversee insurance obligations.