1. Electricity Providers
Idaho Power: www.idahopower.com
Service Area: Primarily southern Idaho (including the Treasure Valley, Magic Valley, and parts of eastern Oregon).
Contact: 1-800-488-6151
Avista Utilities: www.myavista.com
Service Area: Northern Idaho (Spokane area, Coeur d’Alene, Lewiston).
Contact: 1-800-227-9187
Rocky Mountain Power: www.rockymountainpower.net
Service Area: Parts of eastern Idaho (including portions of Bannock, Bonneville, and surrounding counties).
Contact: 1-888-221-7070
Tips for Setting Up Electricity
- Check which provider services your specific address.
- Have your new address, move-in date, and a payment method ready.
- Ask about any automatic payment or budget billing options that could save you money or simplify billing.
2. Natural Gas Providers
Intermountain Gas Company: www.intgas.com
Service Area: Most of southern Idaho.
Contact: 1-800-548-3679
Avista Utilities (also provides natural gas in some areas of northern Idaho)
Website: www.myavista.com
Contact: 1-800-227-9187
Tips for Setting Up Gas
- Make sure your address is within the service area.
- Turn on service at least a few days before you move in to ensure you have heat and hot water when you arrive.
3. Water & Sewer
Water and sewer services are typically provided by your city or local water district. Below are some examples, but be sure to check your local city’s website or call city hall for the most accurate information:
City of Boise Water & Sewer
- Operated by Veolia (formerly SUEZ) Water for water service.
- Website: www.boise.gov/departments/public-works
City of Meridian Water & Sewer
- Website: meridiancity.org/water
City of Idaho Falls Utilities
Tips for Setting Up Water & Sewer
- Contact your city’s utility department or water district.
- Often, water and sewer billing can be combined.
- Some municipalities provide online forms to start service; otherwise, you may need to call or visit in person.
4. Garbage & Recycling
Most garbage and recycling services in Idaho are city-managed or contracted to private companies. For example:
Republic Services: www.republicservices.com
Areas Served: Many Idaho cities, including parts of Ada County, Canyon County, and beyond.
Waste Management: www.wm.com
Areas Served: Various regions across the state.
Check your city or county website to see if trash and recycling services are included in your water/sewer bill or if you must sign up with a private hauler.
Tips for Setting Up Garbage & Recycling
- Determine if the service is included in your city bill or if you need a private contract.
- Ask about pickup schedules, container sizes, and recycling guidelines.
- Some cities offer composting or yard waste services—look into it if you plan to garden or have a lot of yard waste.
5. Internet, Cable & Phone
Idaho has a variety of internet and cable providers. Coverage will depend on your exact location, so it’s best to confirm availability using your new address on each provider’s website:
Sparklight (formerly Cable One)
Website: www.sparklight.com
CenturyLink
Website: www.centurylink.com
Frontier
Website: www.frontier.com
Spectrum
Website: www.spectrum.com
(More common in some regions of North Idaho)
TDS Telecom
Website: tdstelecom.com
Depending on your location, fiber-optic networks may be available from local or regional providers. Satellite internet (e.g., HughesNet, Viasat, Starlink) may be an option for rural areas.
6. DMV & Vehicle Registration
If you’re new to Idaho, you’ll need to register your vehicle(s) and update your driver’s license.
- Idaho Transportation Department (ITD)
Website: itd.idaho.gov
Driver’s License & State ID
- You have 90 days after establishing residency in Idaho to get an Idaho driver’s license.
- Bring proof of identity, residency, and legal status.
Vehicle Registration
- You must register your vehicle within 90 days of moving to Idaho.
- Be prepared to provide your out-of-state title, proof of insurance, and a VIN inspection.
7. Voter Registration
- Idaho Secretary of State
Website: sos.idaho.gov - You can register to vote online (if you have an Idaho driver’s license) or by mail.
- Registration deadlines vary depending on the election schedule.
8. School Registration
If you have children, you’ll want to register them at their new school as soon as possible.
- Check your local school district for enrollment requirements and boundary maps.
- Gather required documents such as proof of residence, immunization records, and previous school transcripts.
9. Additional Local Resources
Healthcare
If you need a primary care provider, check with local hospital systems like St. Luke’s, Saint Alphonsus, or Kootenai Health (in North Idaho).
Local Community Services
- Libraries: Idaho public libraries often offer free programs and resources.
- City Parks & Recreation: Perfect for family activities, sports leagues, and community events.
Utilities Assistance Programs
- If you need financial help with utilities, check local assistance programs like Project Share (through Idaho Power) or other local nonprofit resources.
Final Tips
- Start Early: Some utility providers need a few days to process requests, so call or set up services online at least a week before your move-in date.
- Keep Records: Document your account numbers, confirmation emails, and payment receipts.
- Schedule Setup/Disconnect Dates: Ensure your old utilities end and your new ones begin in a coordinated manner to avoid double billing or service gaps.
- Ask About Bundles: Providers often give discounts for combining services (internet, TV, and phone).
Welcome to Idaho!
We hope this guide makes your transition smoother. Should you have any questions or need personalized advice, feel free to reach out to local real estate professionals, neighbors, or city offices. Idaho is known for its friendly communities, so don’t hesitate to ask around. We’re glad you’re here—enjoy all that the Gem State has to offer!