Here are the best schools in Idaho Falls–Ammon. This guide lists accredited programs, typical program length, and direct steps to get licensed in Idaho. The trades below have steady demand and solid wages across Idaho and the U.S.[^1] Accreditation and program data can be checked in College Navigator.[^2]
Top Trade Schools in Idaho Falls–Ammon
#1
Carrington College-Boise
📍
Boise, ID
•In-state option
Located in Boise, ID Carrington College-Boise is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Dental Assistant, Dental Hygiene, and Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).
Located in Boise, ID Boise Bible College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include career-aligned certificates and diplomas.
Located in Boise, ID Boise State University is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Construction Manager, Criminal Justice, and Cybersecurity.
Located in Idaho Falls, ID College of Eastern Idaho is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Automotive Technician, Automotive Technology, and Machining Technology.
Located in Pocatello, ID Idaho State University is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Aerospace Technology, Aircraft Mechanic (A&P), and Aviation Maintenance Technology.
Located in Moscow, ID University of Idaho is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Cybersecurity, Digital Media Technology, and Electrician.
Located in Caldwell, ID The College of Idaho is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include career-aligned certificates and diplomas.
Located in Lewiston, ID Lewis-Clark State College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Auto Body and Collision Repair, Automotive Technician, and Automotive Technology.
Electricians keep homes, plants, and commercial buildings running. Work includes wiring, panels, controls, and troubleshooting. National and statewide job growth is steady, with strong pay for licensed journeymen and masters.[^1]
In Idaho Falls–Ammon, apprentices often split time between job sites and evening classes at College of Eastern Idaho or Idaho State University.
HVAC/R
HVAC technicians install and service heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems. Employers value EPA 608 certification plus an Idaho HVAC journeyman license. Year-round service work supports steady hours.[^1]
Many HVAC programs include hands-on labs with recovery machines, brazing, and controls.
Welding
Welders and fabricators work in manufacturing, energy, repair, and construction. Certifications such as AWS D1.1 can boost starting pay. Skilled welders who can read blueprints and pass code tests are in demand statewide.[^1]
Plumbing
Plumbers install and repair piping, fixtures, and gas lines. Idaho requires a license. Apprentices learn on site while completing classroom hours. Licensed plumbers command strong wages and steady jobs in both residential and industrial work.[^1]
Explore more trades and career guides in our hub: All Trades
Median salaries reflect the latest OEWS release; national data shown when state medians are unavailable.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2024. State data (Idaho) shown where available; national OEWS values used when state data is unavailable. Job growth reflects projected U.S. change for each trade.
Licensing Requirements in Idaho
Electrician (Idaho Division of Building Safety – Electrical)
Register as an apprentice with the state.
Complete 4 years of documented on‑the‑job training plus 576 classroom hours through an approved provider.
Apply for and pass the Idaho journeyman exam.
Upgrade to master after required journeyman experience and exam.
Electrical contractor licenses require a master on staff and insurance.[^4]
HVAC (Idaho Division of Building Safety – HVAC)
Register as an HVAC apprentice.
Complete 4 years OJT plus 576 classroom hours in an approved program.
Pass the Idaho HVAC journeyman exam.
HVAC contractor licenses require qualifying experience, exam, and insurance. Specialty licenses (e.g., limited electrical, gas piping) may apply.[^4]
Plumbing (Idaho Division of Building Safety – Plumbing)
Register as a plumbing apprentice.
Complete 4 years OJT plus 576 classroom hours with an approved provider.
Pass the Idaho plumbing journeyman exam.
Master/contractor licensing requires additional experience, exam, and insurance.[^4]
Cosmetology/Barbering (Idaho DOPL)
Graduate from an approved school or apprenticeship meeting state hours.
Pass written and practical exams.
Apply for state licensure and renew as required.[^5]
EMS (EMT/Paramedic) – if you pursue emergency medical training
Complete a state‑approved course.
Pass NREMT exams.
Background check and state application for Idaho EMS licensure.[^6]
CDL – Commercial Truck Driving
Get a DOT medical card and Commercial Learner’s Permit.
Complete FMCSA Entry‑Level Driver Training (ELDT) with an approved provider.
Pass the skills test and obtain your CDL at the Idaho DMV.[^7]
Note: Many trades also require OSHA safety training, employer onboarding, and continuing education. Schools listed here can guide you through the correct Idaho forms, exams, and timelines.
Online & Flexible Options
Hybrid training: CEI and ISU often run lecture or theory online with labs on campus. Apprenticeships typically meet on weeknights to fit full‑time work.
Test prep online: Study resources for EPA 608, OSHA 10/30, and code exams are widely available online. Exams must be taken with approved proctors.
IT and office careers: If you are exploring non‑construction trades, short online programs can prepare you for CompTIA, AWS Cloud, or bookkeeping roles. Verify each program’s outcomes and employer recognition before enrolling.
Credit for experience: Ask about prior learning assessments or challenge tests if you have industry experience or military training.
Browse more how‑to content in our Guides, including choosing schools, apprenticeships, financial aid, and certification prep.
If you already know your trade, contact two or three schools above, ask about start dates and evening cohorts, and confirm they are approved for Idaho licensing.
[^1]: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook. Job outlook and wages for Electricians, HVAC technicians, Plumbers, and Welders (accessed 2025).
[^2]: U.S. Department of Education, College Navigator. Institutional accreditation and program listings for Idaho schools (accessed 2025).
[^4]: Idaho Division of Building Safety (DBS): Electrical, Plumbing, and HVAC licensing requirements and applications (accessed 2025).
[^5]: Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL): Cosmetology and Barber Licensing Board rules and applications (accessed 2025).
[^6]: Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, Bureau of EMS and Preparedness: EMS provider licensing (accessed 2025).
[^7]: Idaho Transportation Department (ITD): Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) requirements, ELDT, and testing (accessed 2025).
Meet the author:Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. He’s the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.
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