The online Young Drivers webpage is unclear because there's nothing really stating what is required for people who are 17. If you're under 17, you have to take a driver training program.
In the Idaho Driver's Manual, there is an explicit statement on page 1-3:
If you have not successfully completed driver training and the GDL
Program, you must pass a written knowledge test and be at least 17
years old to be issued an instruction permit. The permit may be renewed
one (1) time without requiring the permit holder to retake and pass
the Class D knowledge test, provided the previous knowledge test was
taken within the past 12 months.
Here is a list of documentation (or people) that you may need to have with you:
1. Proof of Age and Identity
2. Social Security Card or Number for Verification
3. Proof of Idaho Residency
4. Acceptable Lawful Presence Documents (if applicable)
5. Foreign Driver’s License (if applicable)
6. Visual/Medical Certification (if applicable)
7. Driver Training Completion (if under 17)
8. Liability Signer (if under 18)
9. Verification of School Compliance – VOC (if under 18)
There's what I would call another unclear section on page 1-5 in the Driver Training/Supervised Instruction Section:
Anyone 17 years of age or older may take driver training with either
the Driver Training/Supervised Instruction Permit or with the Class D
Instruction Permit. The knowledge test must be passed before a Class D
Instruction Permit can be issued. While you are enrolled in a driver’s
training program, the Driver Training/Supervised Instruction Permit is
valid only to operate a vehicle with a driver training instructor.
Okay, so you definitely have to pass the knowledge test before getting a Class D Instruction Permit. I think the last sentence means that if you have the Driver Training/Supervised instruction Permit you can only drive with a licensed instructor. That limitation does not apply to a Class D Instruction Permit.
