The Idaho State Police is actively recruiting candidates for its trooper academy, with particular focus on staffing needs in the Coeur d’Alene and Lewiston regions. The agency is accepting applications through September 18 for the 22-week academy program, which begins in mid-January.
Recruits accepted into the academy receive compensation during their training period, along with lodging and meals provided. Starting pay for new hires is $32.87 per hour, rising to $34.80 after three years of service. Successful completion of the academy results in Idaho Peace Officer Standards and Training certification.
Qualifications and Application Requirements
Applicants must meet several baseline criteria: be at least 21 years old, U.S. citizens with a high school diploma or equivalent, and possess a valid driver’s license. All candidates must satisfy Idaho POST requirements and undergo comprehensive screening that includes background investigation, polygraph examination, medical and psychological evaluations, physical fitness testing, and drug screening.
Idaho State Police Capt. Jason Horst emphasized the caliber of candidates the agency seeks. “We’re looking for individuals with strong character, a commitment to public service and a willingness to challenge themselves,” he said. “Our academy is a demanding 22-week program, but if you make it through, you’ll join one of the finest law enforcement agencies in the country.”
What Comes Next
Interested candidates in the Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, Hayden, and broader Kootenai County area should submit applications before the September 18 deadline. More information about the application process and specific requirements is available through the Idaho State Police website.
Law enforcement recruitment remains critical across Idaho, particularly in regions like North Idaho where trooper presence is essential for highway safety and community protection. The Coeur d’Alene area has experienced significant growth in recent years, increasing the demand for adequate state police staffing to serve the expanding population.