Estate Planning 101

Notifying the Idaho Transportation Department Division of Motor Vehicles After a Loved One’s Passing

September 13, 2023

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Need a Will or Trust?

Snug makes it easy to create a Will or Trust in under 20 minutes. Powers of Attorney and Health Care Directives are included for free with any Will or Trust, as is a year of free updates.
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The loss of a loved one is a challenging time, filled with many responsibilities and tasks. One such task is notifying various organizations and departments, such as the Idaho Transportation Department Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This is crucial to prevent identity theft and to handle matters related to the deceased's driver's license and vehicle registration.

Who Should Be Notified

If your deceased loved one was a resident of Idaho and a driver, you need to notify the Idaho Transportation Department Division of Motor Vehicles. This is important to cancel their driver's license and to update the vehicle registration records.

When to Notify

You should notify the Idaho DMV as soon as possible after the death of your loved one. Prompt notification helps prevent misuse of the deceased's identity and ensures timely management of vehicle-related matters.

How to Notify

To notify the Idaho DMV, you can call their main office at (208) 334-8000 or visit the office in person. You may also mail a written notification. You'll need to provide the deceased's full name, date of birth, driver's license number, and a copy of the death certificate.

What to Expect After Notification

Once the Idaho DMV has been notified, they will cancel the deceased's driver's license and update their records. If the deceased owned a vehicle, you may need to transfer the title and registration. The DMV can guide you through this process.

Tips for Notification

When notifying the Idaho DMV, it's a good idea to keep records of all interactions, including the dates and times of any calls, and copies of emails or letters. Request a written confirmation of the notification, which can be useful if there are any discrepancies or issues later on.

Conclusion

While it's a challenging task in a difficult time, notifying the Idaho DMV after the passing of a loved one is an important step. It ensures the accurate handling of driving records and vehicle registrations, and helps prevent potential identity theft. With understanding and preparation, you can effectively navigate this task.

FAQ

Q: Can I notify the Idaho DMV online?
A: Currently, there is no online process for reporting a death to the Idaho DMV. You must call them, visit their office in person, or send a written notification by mail.

Q: What if the deceased owned multiple vehicles?
A: If the deceased owned multiple vehicles, you would need to transfer the title and registration for each vehicle. The Idaho DMV can guide you through this process.

Q: What if the deceased's driver's license was still active?
A: The Idaho DMV will cancel the deceased's driver's license upon notification of their death to prevent misuse.