What's Here? - Table of Contents
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:
To be eligible for the Idaho School Counselor Certificate, candidates must:
Find and sort schools offering school counseling programs in Idaho.
Tips for Meeting Education 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.
Assessments are currently (as of 2025) not required for Administrator or Pupil Service Staff Certificates or Reinstatements.
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:
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.
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 EducationContact Information:
Call (208) 332-6882 or toll-free 800-432-4601 for assistance during normal business hours.
Associated Fees:
Application Fee: $75.