Idaho Initial School Counselor Certification

School Counselor Certification

by School Counselor Certification Staff

Updated: October 8th, 2024

Initial Idaho School Counselor Certification

This educational pathway is tailored for individuals aspiring to become school counselors in Idaho. It requires the completion of a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, along with a 700-hour practicum, emphasizing experience in kindergarten through grade-12 settings.

Additionally, candidates must verify completion of an educator program approved by the Idaho State Board of Education, accompanied by a background investigation conducted through the Idaho State Police Bureau.

Prospective candidates must initiate the process by submitting a comprehensive application, which includes the Idaho Educator Certification Application, transcripts, Institutional Recommendation form, background check packet, and the required fees.

The resulting certification is renewable and remains valid for five (5) years, providing a solid foundation for individuals entering the field of school counseling.

The steps below go into greater detail for the certification process:

Education or Degree Requirements

To be eligible for the Idaho School Counselor Certificate, candidates must:

  • Earn a masters degree from a regionally accredited institution.

Find and sort schools offering school counseling programs in Idaho.

Tips for Meeting Education Requirements:

  • Ensure the selected master’s program is from a regionally accredited institution.
  • Plan practicum hours strategically to meet the K-12 setting requirement.
  • Follow detailed instructions for institutional recommendation provided on the Idaho State Department of Education (SDE) website.

Experience Requirements

Applicants should possess a background inclusive of a 700-hour practicum, of which 75% (equivalent to 525 clock hours) should be acquired within a K-12 educational setting.

Testing Requirements

Assessments are currently (as of 2025) not required for Administrator or Pupil Service Staff Certificates or Reinstatements.

Background Checks

A background check is required for certification under §33-130, Idaho Code, to ensure the safety and well-being of students in public K-12 settings. The Idaho Department of Education, in collaboration with the Idaho State Police, mandates this process for individuals who may have unsupervised contact with students. This process is completed through the Idaho State Police Bureau of Criminal Identification, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Statewide Sex Offender Registry.

To meet the background check requirements:

  • Obtain Fingerprint Card: Request an Idaho Department of Education fingerprint card by emailing fingerprintrequest@sde.idaho.gov or picking one up at 650 W. State St, Second Floor, Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.
  • Submit Fingerprints: Take the obtained fingerprint card to any Idaho or non-Idaho police department, sheriff’s office, or facility with trained fingerprinting personnel. Have fingerprints rolled on the card, ensuring Section II is completed, and the Fingerprint Card Verification Form is signed and dated.
  • Associated Fees: The following fees apply:
    • All applicants except for volunteers: $28.25
    • Volunteers: $26.25

Payment must be made via checks or money orders payable to the Idaho Department of Education. Cash in the exact amount is accepted for walk-ins. Credit cards are not currently accepted, and all payments are nonrefundable.

Application Process

To initiate the certification process for Pupil Service Staff in Idaho, you must complete and submit a comprehensive application packet to the State Department of Education, Teacher Certification. The packet should include the Idaho Educator Certification Application, accompanied by a $75 application fee.

Additionally, provide details regarding all attended colleges/universities, submit official transcripts, complete a Background Investigation Check packet with the required fingerprint card and processing fee, include the Institutional Recommendation Form, and furnish the official Praxis II Assessment score sheet.

Submission Options:

Mail the packet to the following address:

State Department of Education
Teacher Certification
PO Box 83720
Boise, Idaho 83720-0027

Contact Information:

Call (208) 332-6882 or toll-free 800-432-4601 for assistance during normal business hours.

Associated Fees:

Application Fee: $75.