BOISE, ID — The Idaho Division of Motor Vehicles is preparing to begin sending official email notifications to customers as part of an effort to modernize services and reduce mailing costs.

The new system will send reminders and updates directly to customers who have an email address associated with their DMV account. The DMV estimates the change could save at least $400,000 based on the number of customers who currently have online accounts.

DMV officials are alerting customers ahead of the change so the emails are not mistaken for spam. Messages will come from an Idaho Transportation Department-managed email address and will include instructions and links directing customers to the state’s DMV Online website.

“Many Idahoans will receive an e-notification from the DMV for the first time,” DMV Administrator CJ Kendrick said. “We want customers to feel confident the message is legitimate and understand why they’re receiving it.”

Customers who want to continue receiving traditional mail will need to log into their DMV account and opt out of electronic notifications.

The DMV recommends customers verify that links in any message claiming to be from the agency direct to official ITD websites before entering personal information.