Idaho Knowledge Test Languages: 12 Written Options Including Swahili, No Personal Translator

Can I take the permit test in a language other than English in Idaho?

The Idaho DMV written knowledge test is available in 11 languages other than English (12 total including English). You select your language on the computer screen when you start the test.

What languages is the Idaho permit test available in?

The Idaho permit test is available in 11 languages plus English (12 total). The full list is below.

Available Languages and How to Request Them

The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) provides the knowledge test in these languages:

• English
• Spanish (Español)
• Arabic ()
• Chinese (中文)
• Farsi ()
• French (Français)
• Korean ()
• Russian (Русский)
• Serbo-Croatian (Srpskohrvatski)
• Swahili
• Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt)
• American Sign Language (ASL) – Video Format

You request your language directly on the computer kiosk at the driver licensing office. There is no need to schedule it in advance. For example, an applicant in Boise can walk into the Ada County DMV on Broadway Ave., select 'Vietnamese' on the touch screen, and begin their foreign language driving test immediately.

Translation quality concerns are minimal as the ITD uses official, standardized translations. However, all road sign questions are based on English signs or universal symbols.

Interpreter, Audio, and Testing Rules

Interpreter availability is restricted. You cannot bring a personal translator for the written test. You must use the official translated test on the computer.

For the audio test options, audio assistance (an oral test) is typically available in English and Spanish through headphones. Audio assistance is available in English and Spanish only. For instance, the Canyon County office in Nampa may only have audio for English and Spanish. Call your local office to confirm.

• ASL Test: Provided via integrated video on the testing computer; no external interpreter needed.
• ✗ No Dictionaries: Paper or electronic translators are prohibited during the exam.
• Documents: Foreign-language documents (e.g., a passport) may require a certified translation for proof of identity.

Language Requirements for Driving and Practical Tips

While the multilingual permit test is available, other parts of the licensing process require English proficiency.

• Road Signs: All signs on the test and Idaho roads are in English or use standard symbols.
• Skills Test: The driving portion is conducted in English. Some county offices may allow an interpreter for pre-drive instructions only; check with your local sheriff's office.

💡 Tip: Verify your documents' translations before your appointment. A Meridian applicant was turned away at the West Idaho Street office because their foreign birth certificate lacked a certified English translation, causing a 2-week delay.

Quick check: Arrive early to secure a testing kiosk. The Coeur d'Alene office on Government Way has limited stations; applicants arriving after 2 PM often face long waits or full scheduling for the day.

Worth knowing: Study road sign meanings, not just translations. A common failure in Pocatello is missing questions about English wording on signs like 'Yield' or 'Right of Way' during the permit test in Spanish.

Download the Idaho Driver's Handbook PDF to study all permit rules and test topics.

For practice tests and county office details, visit itd.idaho.gov/dmv/young-drivers/.

📝 Rules: No personal interpreters allowed during the knowledge test — use only official computer translations. Road test instructions are in English; an approved interpreter may accompany you for directions only. Foreign documents require certified English translations.