Best Electrician Schools in Idaho

If you want to become an electrician in Idaho, the right training program is where you start. Idaho requires state licensing for all electricians, and formal training is the fastest way to meet the requirements. Here’s how to pick a school and what you need to know before you enroll.

Steps to Become a Licensed Electrician in Idaho

Idaho has strict licensing rules for electricians. You cannot legally do electrical work in the state without a license from the Idaho Division of Building Safety (DBS).

Here’s the general process:

1. Choose an approved training path.
   This can be through an apprenticeship, technical college, or trade school.
2. Complete required classroom instruction.
   Idaho requires 144 hours of classroom training per year during apprenticeship.
3. Log on-the-job training hours.
   At least 8,000 hours (about 4 years) under a licensed electrician for journeyman licensing.
4. Apply for your state exam through DBS.
5. Pass the state electrician exam and maintain your license with continuing education.

Idaho Rule: All apprentices must hold an active apprentice registration with DBS and submit annual work reports to keep it current.
Source: Idaho Division of Building Safety

What to Look for in an Electrician School

Not all electrician programs are the same. When comparing schools in Idaho, pay attention to:

• State approval — School should be recognized by DBS.
• Experienced instructors — Ideally, licensed electricians with field experience.
• Flexible scheduling — If you need to work while you train.
• Path to apprenticeship — Some programs directly connect you to local contractors.
• Hands-on labs — Electrical training is best learned by doing.

Top Electrician Schools in Idaho

Below is a list of well-regarded programs and apprenticeship providers in Idaho. Always confirm current admission requirements and fees with the school.

1. College of Western Idaho – Electrical Apprenticeship

• Location: Nampa, ID
• Program type: 4-year apprenticeship-related training
• Highlights: Evening classes for working apprentices, strong industry partnerships.
• Website: College of Western Idaho

2. North Idaho College – Apprenticeship and Trades

• Location: Coeur d'Alene, ID
• Program type: Electrical apprenticeship classroom training
• Highlights: Meets state classroom requirements, multiple start dates.
• Website: North Idaho College

3. College of Southern Idaho – Electrical Apprenticeship

• Location: Twin Falls, ID
• Program type: 4-year program combining work and class
• Highlights: Flexible class schedules, regionally focused.
• Website: College of Southern Idaho

4. IEC of Idaho – Independent Electrical Contractors

• Location: Meridian, ID
• Program type: Accredited apprenticeship program
• Highlights: National curriculum, recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor.
• Website: IEC of Idaho

5. Lewis-Clark State College – Workforce Training

• Location: Lewiston, ID
• Program type: Electrical apprenticeship classroom training
• Highlights: Strong ties to local employers.
• Website: Lewis-Clark State College

Idaho Electrical License Types

The DBS issues multiple electrical license types. Which one you need depends on your role.

Classroom vs. Apprenticeship-Only Training

You can meet Idaho’s requirements two ways:

• Apprenticeship with classroom learning — Most common route, often through a trade school.
• Direct employment and self-study — Rare and makes passing the exam harder.

For most people, enrolling in an apprenticeship that includes classroom instruction is the fastest and most reliable path.

How Long Does It Take to Become an Electrician in Idaho?

• Apprentice registration: Immediately after hiring or school admission.
• Journeyman license: Minimum 4 years from the time you start your OJT hours.
• Master license: At least 4 years as a journeyman.

Tip: You can work as an apprentice while completing your classroom training, so you earn experience and income at the same time.

Choosing Between Public Colleges and Private Programs

Public colleges like College of Western Idaho or North Idaho College often have lower tuition for in-state residents and established partnerships with local contractors.

Private programs like IEC offer dedicated trade-only training, smaller class sizes, and flexible schedules for working adults.

Next Steps

If you’re ready to start your career as an electrician:

1. Review the Idaho DBS apprenticeship rules.
2. Contact at least two approved schools in your region.
3. Ask about program start dates, tuition, and employer partnerships.
4. Register as an apprentice with DBS when you get hired or start school.

Formal training not only meets Idaho’s requirements but also gives you the skills to work safely and stay competitive in the trade.

Pick a school that fits your schedule, your location, and your career goals—and start logging those hours toward your journeyman license.

Sources:

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