(Bannock County Press Release, April 2, 2026; Cover photo credit: Bannock County)
It feels like 2026 just started a few days ago, but we’re heading straight into summer, I guess (temps included). The nice weather has made for a busier March than usual for us. Patrons are getting a jump on their boat registrations, invasive species stickers, and recreational vehicle permits so they can enjoy the season early! We’ve also seen an increase in vehicle registration and title foot traffic in our office.
Last month, we shared updates on legislation. In a recent meeting with ITD, they mentioned that 20 bills have been introduced this year and are at various stages of the legislative process, impacting ITD DMV and the County DMV offices. Here is the latest update on some issues our office has monitored.
HB533 – No Registration Decal/Stickers bill was passed and signed by the governor in February and will take effect 7/1/2026. Registration will still need to be renewed and paid for annually or biannually. This bill just eliminates the need for the decal stickers, not the registration itself.
HB577 – Plate replacement date changing from 10-year requirement to “as necessary.” This was passed and signed in March, with an enactment date of 7/1/2026.
HB663 – New agricultural plate design. The previous AG plate design will be discontinued, and the committee and program behind this plate will be able to adjust it through a vote. The new plate will be available 7/1/2026.
HB825a – NEW Idaho America 250 specialty plate. This new plate will help fund the Heritage Trust program in Idaho, and the specialty plate fee will be $35 in addition to the standard registration fee for the first year and $25 each year thereafter. This bill was signed by the Governor on Monday, and the new plate will be available within 2-3 weeks. More to come on the release of this plate.
HB532 – The Identity Validation bill will modify how DMV offices across the state verify identities, including motor vehicle and driver’s licenses. These changes have not yet been communicated or discussed with us by ITD. They have assured us that training will be provided. The bill was passed and signed in March, with an effective date of 7/1/2026.
HB629a – This bill will allow electronic vehicle registration, in addition to paper registration. This bill has been passed and is awaiting the Governor’s signature. This will take effect on 7/1/2026 if the Governor signs it into law. More details to come.
SB1325 – NEW specialty plate design: a white plate background with black lettering and the word Idaho on the plate. It will look similar to the black-and-white ones that came out last year. However, this plate program will be funding the Idaho Law Enforcement Fund. The specialty fee for this plate will be $70 in addition to the standard registration fee for the first year, and $50 each year thereafter.
We are also watching additional bills, and we will cover more of them when we get more information from ITD on how they will change or affect our business offerings. Until then, enjoy your springtime, and we look forward to seeing you in our office!!
