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Parking and Transportation FAQs

For other parking and transportation related questions, email us at parking@isu.edu or call us at (208) 282-2625.

Parking Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I have to buy a parking permit? 

Permit fees help keep ISU's parking lots safe and usable. They cover things like lighting, snow removal, resurfacing, signage, and safety measures. Requiring permits also prevents overcrowding and makes parking fairer for everyone. 

Do I need to have a permit to park in my housing lot? 

Yes. A valid housing permit is required in all housing parking lots on the ISU campus. Please refer to our campus map for lot locations near your housing unit. 

What do I do if my housing lot is full? 

Most housing lots have a designated over flow lot, in this case. Your housing permit will be allowed in these lots at all times. Below are the designated overflow lots for each housing unit: 

  • TURNER: 
    • Lot Designation: H08 and H09
    • Overflow: All of the ICCU Dome (G12, G13, and G14), and the large parking lot at Reed's Gym (G10)
  • RENDEZVOUS
    • Lot Designation: H10
    • Overflow: The parking lot located directly behind Reed's Gym (G08) and the general parking along Bartz Way. 
  • University Courts
    • Lot Designation: H03
    • Overflow: Parking lot next to Public Safety (G02) and the parking located next to Mountain View Cemetery (G04). 
  • SCHUBERT HEIGHTS
    • Lot Designation: H04
    • Overflow: Bartz Way
  • MCINTOSH MANOR
    • Lot Designation: H05
    • Overflow: Bartz Way
  • RIDGECREST
    • Lot Designation: H07
    • Overflow: Parking at Stephen's Performing Arts Center (G17), and Bartz Way

Will I get a citation if I'm parked in General or Reserved with a Housing permit?

Yes. You may receive a citation if your permit does not include General or Reserved privileges. The only exception is if you are parking in the General lot designated as your assigned housing overflow (see above). To park in other General or Reserved lots, you must purchase an upgrade for an additional cost. Please contact the Parking Office for details about adding General or Reserved access to your housing permit.

Can I park in a different housing lot if I don't live there?

No. Housing permits are only valid in the lot assigned to your housing unit and its designated overflow lots. Parking in another housing lot without authorization may result in a citation.

Are housing permits valid during school breaks or summer session?

Yes. Housing permits remain valid year-round, including during semester breaks and summer session, unless otherwise posted. Please watch for announcements regarding special events or lot closures, as parking may be temporarily restricted.

Can I register more than one vehicle under my housing permit? 

Yes, you may register up to four vehicles, but only one vehicle may be parked on campus at a time under your permit. All registered vehicles must be linked to your parking account either through the Parking Office or your parking portal.

Are guests allowed to park in housing lots? 

Guest parking is not allowed in housing lots without a visitor permit. Residents may receive a daily permit for their visitors at the Parking Office for no additional cost.  

Do I need to move my car for snow removal or maintenance? 

Yes. During snow removal, maintenance, or other scheduled work, certain lots may require residents to temporarily relocate their vehicles. Notices will be posted in advance. You may also receive a call from the Parking Office or Public Safety asking for your vehicle to be moved. Failure to move your vehicle may result in a citation or tow.

Where can I park to bring a moving truck or trailer on move-in or move-out day?

Designated temporary unloading zones will be available during move-in and move-out periods. Trucks and trailers may not remain parked in housing lots overnight. Please follow posted signs or contact the Parking Office for assistance with oversized vehicles.

What should I do if my car is towed or I cannot find it? 

If your car is missing, first contact the Parking Office to confirm whether it was towed. If your vehicle was towed, the Parking Office can provide information about where to retrieve it and any associated fees. If your vehicle was not towed, you will be referred to ISU Public Safety to create a missing vehicle report. 

Why do I have to buy a parking permit? 

Permit fees help keep ISU's parking lots safe and usable. They cover things like lighting, snow removal, resurfacing, signage, and safety measures. Requiring permits also prevents overcrowding and makes parking fairer for everyone.

Where can I purchase a parking permit?

  • Online: Log into MyISU → Finances tab → Parking Services Portal, or click “Purchase a Permit” on the Parking Services website.

  • In person: Visit your campus parking office:

    • Pocatello: Public Safety Building (#27)

    • Idaho Falls: Student Services Office (Bennion SUB)

    • Meridian: Front Office, ISU-Meridian Health Science Center

Note: You must provide your license plate number and vehicle information. 

What payment methods are accepted?

  • Online: Visa or MasterCard

  • Pocatello Office: Cash, check, Visa, MasterCard

  • Idaho Falls & Meridian Offices: Cash or check

Can I register multiple vehicles under one permit?

Yes. You may register up to four vehicles, but only one vehicle may be parked on campus at a time under your permit. To park more than one vehicle at a time, you must purchase separate permits for each vehicle. 

Can I purchase a permit if I have outstanding citations?

No. All citations must be paid, or a payment arrangement must be made with your parking office before purchasing a permit. 

What if I cannot pay my citations all at once?

You may request a payment plan at your parking office. An initial payment and signed agreement are required.

Is there any free parking on campus?
Yes, limited options are available:

  • Pocatello: Northeast corner of the ICCU Dome (G14), portions of Bartz Way (after the general parking ends), and at the Stephens Performing Arts Center (G17).

  • Evenings & weekends: Permits are not required after 4pm or on the weekends in General or Reserved parking lots. Housing lots require a permit 24/7. 

How do Reserved permits work?

  • Reserved permits are first offered to faculty and staff each year on July 1.

  • Any remaining Reserved permits are available to students starting the second week of fall semester on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • Reserved permits are valid in the purchased lot and any general lot. 

How can I use my Housing permit in General lots?

  • Housing permits are valid in General lots after 4:00 p.m. on weekdays and on weekends.

  • For full-time access, you may upgrade to a Housing/General Combo permit for an additional fee.

If I purchase a permit for one ISU campus, is it valid at others?

  • General and Reserved permits: Valid on all ISU campuses in General parking lots. Reserved permits from Pocatello are not valid in the Reserved lot located in Meridian (R11).

  • Housing/General Combo permits (Pocatello): Also valid on other campuses.

  • Housing-only permits: Valid only in Pocatello housing lots.

What if I lose my permit?

If your permit is lost or stolen, contact your campus parking office immediately. A replacement permit may be issued for a fee. If it is believed the permit has been stolen, a report with ISU Public Safety will be required. 

Are motorcycles and scooters covered by the same permit?

No. Motorcycles and scooters require a separate motorcycle permit, which must be purchased through the Parking Office or Parking Services portal. Designated motorcycle parking areas are available on each campus. If you purchase a General, Reserved or Housing permit, you will be able to purchase a motorcycle at no extra cost. 

Are there separate General lots for students and faculty/staff?

  • Pocatello & Idaho Falls: No separation—General parking is shared.

  • Meridian: Yes, there are separate General lots for students and faculty/staff.

Do administrators get free parking?

No. Administrators pay the same rates as faculty and staff.

How do I appeal a citation?

All citations must be paid or appealed either online or at the Parking Office. Submit an appeal through your Parking Portal with a written explanation. Appeals may also be submitted to the Parking Office.

 

Why do I have to buy a parking permit? 

Permit fees help keep ISU's parking lots safe and usable. They cover things like lighting, snow removal, resurfacing, signage, and safety measures. Requiring permits also prevents overcrowding and makes parking fairer for everyone.

Where can I purchase a parking permit?

  • Online: Log into MyISU → Finances tab → Parking Services Portal, or click “Parking Portal” under "Permit Information" on the Parking website.

  • In person: Visit your campus parking office:

    • Pocatello: Public Safety Building (#27)

    • Idaho Falls: Student Services Office (Bennion SUB)

    • Meridian: Front Office, ISU-Meridian Health Science Center

Note: You must provide your license plate number and vehicle information at the time of purchase. 

What payment methods are accepted?

  • Online: Visa, MasterCard, Payroll Deductions (benefited employees only)

  • Pocatello Office: Cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, Payroll Deductions (benefited employees only)

  • Idaho Falls & Meridian Offices: Cash, check, Payroll Deductions (benefited employees only)

How do I set up payroll deduction?

Select payroll deduction when purchasing online, or complete a payroll deduction form at your parking office. If the option does not appear online, call the Parking Office at (208) 282-2625.

Can I register multiple vehicles under one permit?

Yes. You may register up to four vehicles, but only one vehicle may be parked on campus at a time under your permit. To park more than one vehicle at a time, you must purchase separate permits for each vehicle. 

Can I purchase a permit if I have outstanding citations?

No. All citations must be paid, or a payment arrangement must be made with your parking office before purchasing a permit. 

What if I cannot pay my citations all at once?

You may request a payment plan at your parking office. An initial payment and signed agreement are required.

Is there any free parking on campus?
Yes, limited options are available:

  • Pocatello: Northeast corner of the ICCU Dome (G14), portions of Bartz Way (after the general parking ends), and at the Stephens Performing Arts Center (G17).

  • Evenings & weekends: Permits are not required after 4pm or on the weekends in General or Reserved parking lots. Housing lots require a permit 24/7. 

How do Reserved permits work?

  • Reserved permits are sold to faculty and staff beginning July 1 each year (first come, first served).

  • Reserved permits are valid in:

    • The lot they are purchased for

      • Reserved permits must be used in their designated lot. Official Business passes may be used in conjunction with a permit to park in other Reserved parking lots while on Official Business. 
    • Any General lot

When can I use my General permit in Reserved lots?

  • After 4:00 p.m. on weekdays and on weekends (unless otherwise posted).

  • During business hours if accompanied by an Official Business Pass while on official business.

Can I transfer my permit if I get a new vehicle during the year?

Yes. You may transfer your permit to a new vehicle by updating your vehicle information through the parking portal in MyISU or by visiting your parking office. Be sure to provide your new license plate number.

What are Official Business Passes?

Official Business Passes allow employees to temporarily park closer to campus facilities while conducting official ISU business.

  • Who receives them:

    • One complimentary pass is issued to the president, vice presidents, associate vice presidents, deans, directors, chairs, and department heads.

    • Additional passes may be purchased at the same rate as an employee General permit. Permits may be used by a department or an employee. 

  • Where they are valid:

    • Reserved lots

    • Housing lots

    • General lots

    • Official Vehicle spaces

  • Conditions of use:

    • Must always be used with a valid parking permit.

    • Only valid while conducting official university business (e.g., meetings, trainings, equipment delivery).

    • Not valid for teaching or attending classes, or completing normal work duties in your assigned workspace. 

    • Cannot be used as a substitute for a regular permit.

  • Request an Official Business Pass
    • To request an Official Business Pass, please fill out the linked DocuSign on the Department Permits webpage. 

If I purchase a permit for one ISU campus, is it valid at others?

  • General and Reserved permits: Valid on all ISU campuses in General parking lots. Reserved permits from Pocatello are not valid in the Reserved lot located in Meridian (R11) unless using an ISU Official Business Pass.

Can faculty and staff taking classes purchase student-rate permits?

No. Faculty and staff are not considered students for parking purposes and already receive reduced fees as part of their benefits package.

What if I lose my permit?

If your permit is lost or stolen, contact your campus parking office immediately. A replacement permit may be issued for a fee. If it is believed the permit has been stolen, a report with ISU Public Safety will be required. 

Are motorcycles and scooters covered by the same permit?

No. Motorcycles and scooters require a separate motorcycle permit, which must be purchased through the Parking Office or Parking Services portal. Designated motorcycle parking areas are available on each campus. If you purchase a General, Reserved or Housing permit, you will be able to purchase a motorcycle at no extra cost. 

How can departments provide parking for visitors or guests?

Departments may:

  • Provide a day-use pass for their guest

  • Ask their guest to park in a MobilePay parking lot and pay for their own parking. 

Departments may also purchase annual General or Reserved permits for departmental use. 

Visit our Department Permit page for more information. 

Are there separate General lots for students and faculty/staff?

  • Pocatello & Idaho Falls: No separation—General parking is shared.

  • Meridian: Yes, there are separate General lots for students and faculty/staff.

Do administrators get free parking?

No. Administrators pay the same rates as faculty and staff.

How do I appeal a citation?

All citations must be paid or appealed either online or at the Parking Office. Submit an appeal through your Parking Portal with a written explanation. Appeals may also be submitted to the Parking Office.

 

More Information for Visitors
For complete and up-to-date visitor parking information, please visit the Visitor Parking webpage.

Where can visitors park?

  • Free parking: (Pocatello) Northeast corner of the ICCU Dome, Bartz Way, and the Stephen's Performing Arts Center.

  • Permits are required during the following times:

    • Pocatello:

      • General and Reserved: Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

      • Housing: 24/7
    • Idaho Falls: Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

    • Meridian: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. 

  • Evenings & weekends: After 4:00 p.m. (Pocatello) and on weekends at all campuses, visitors may park for free in Reserved and General lots unless otherwise posted.

Where can visitors buy a day pass?

  • Pocatello:

    • Parking Office drive-through (Public Safety Building #27, Humboldt St.)

    • MobilePay is located throughout the Pocatello campus for temporary parking. Please see our MobilePay webpage for more information. 
  • Idaho Falls: Parking Office (near Student Services Office, Bennion SUB)

  • Meridian: Front Office (ISU–Meridian Health Science Center)

What if I am visiting for a campus tour?

Recruitment Services will provide you with a complimentary visitor permit.

  • Call (208) 282-2123 before your tour.

  • A printable PDF permit will be emailed to you.

  • Be sure to contact Recruitment Services before parking if you do not receive your permit.

How do I appeal a citation?

All citations must either be paid or appealed online. Submit a written appeal through the Parking Services website. You may also submit an appeal in the Parking Office. 

Is ADA/accessible parking available for visitors?

Yes. Visitors with a valid state-issued ADA placard or license plate may park in ADA-designated spaces. 

Where can buses, RVs, or oversized vehicles park?

Oversized vehicles cannot park in standard lots. Visitors bringing buses, RVs, or trailers should contact the Parking Office in advance for designated parking locations and instructions.

Do visitors need a permit for short drop-offs or quick errands?

No permit is required for short-term drop-offs or pickups in clearly marked loading/unloading zones. Vehicles must remain attended and cannot exceed posted time limits. For longer visits, a visitor permit or MobilePay use is required.

ICCU Dome

  • Event parking is managed directly by the event staff at the ICCU Dome.

  • Fees may be collected at the time of ticket purchase or by parking lot attendants on-site, depending on the event.

  • For details, call (208) 282-2625.

Stephens Performing Arts Center (SPAC)

During events, parking is included with your ticket — no permit required.

On-Campus Events (Conferences, Recitals, Commencement, etc.)

  • Event organizers must contact Parking Services at (208) 282-2625 at least two weeks in advance to arrange parking.

  • A parking fee may apply.

Event Sponsor Responsibilities

  • Sponsors must coordinate with Parking Services and inform attendees of parking options (pay stations, day passes, or special arrangements).

  • Failure to provide parking guidance may result in fees billed to the event sponsor for any fines issued during the event.

Transportation Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Transportation Services now located?

  • Parking and Transportation Services are combined in one office.

  • Find us in the Public Safety Building (#27), 625 E Humbolt St, Pocatello, ID 83209.

Where is the Mechanics Shop located? 

Find us in the Facilities Services compound, Building #21. 

How much are vehicle rentals? 

Visit the Motor Pool page for available vehicles and rates.

Where can I pick up the keys for my vehicle reservation?

Key Pick-Up Location: Public Safety Building (#27).

What time do I need to pick up my keys by?

Pick-Up Times:

  • During the school year: 3:00 – 5:00 p.m.

  • During the summer: 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.

  • For rentals outside Monday–Friday hours, keys can be picked up before the office closes or on Friday for weekend reservations.

How do I become an approved driver for ISU? 

How long does it take for the Background check to be completed? 

  • Most background checks are completed within 1–2 weeks.

  • In some cases, it may take up to 4 weeks.

How often do I need to renew my Authorized Driver Background check? 

  • Student Employees: Every year
  • Faculty and Staff Employees: Every 3 years

How do I become authorized to fuel ISU vehicles? 

  • Email transp@isu.edu with:

    • Name

    • Bengal ID Number

    • Department

    • Supervisor

  • You will be informed once your Bengal ID number has been authorized. 

Where are the fuel pumps located for ISU vehicles? 

The fuel pumps are located in the Facilities Services complex, near the Grounds building, behind Davis Field. 

How do I use the ISU fuel pumps? 

  1. Park at a fuel pump.

  2. Before leaving your vehicle, record the current mileage.

  3. Proceed to the kiosk.

  4. Insert your Prokee into the kiosk.

  5. Enter your Bengal ID number.

  6. Enter your fuel pump location.

  7. Enter the vehicle mileage.

  8. Begin fueling your vehicle.

What do I need to do if the fuel pumps are not working correctly? 

Contact the Parking & Transportation Office at 208-282-2625. You may need to use a WEX card to fuel at a local gas station. 

What do I need to do if my Prokee stops working? 

  • Visit the Mechanic Shop or the Parking & Transportation Office.

  • Staff will reprogram or replace your Prokee as needed.

What is a WEX card and how do I use it? 

  • A WEX card is a fuel card issued to university vehicles for use at gas stations instead of the ISU fuel pumps.

  • While not required, it is highly recommended for vehicles that will be used out of town.

  • Departments may request WEX cards for their vehicles through Parking & Transportation Services.

  • For occasional use, Parking & Transportation also has miscellaneous WEX cards that departments can check out as needed.

How do I purchase a new vehicle for my department? 

  • Contact Purchasing Services before purchasing to review options.

  • Once a vehicle is ordered and received, contact Parking and Transportation to arrange:

    • License plates

    • Vehicle numbers

    • ISU branding

    • Prokees and WEX card for fueling

PARKING & TRANSPORTATION SERVICES             parking@isu.edu             (208) 282-2625              625 E Humbolt St Pocatello, ID, 83209                  @isupublicsafety     @isupublicsafety     @ISUPublicSafety     @isupublicsafety71