Carpenter Career Guide in Idaho
Explore carpenter salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Idaho.
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How to Become a Carpenter in Idaho
Training options include technical colleges, union apprenticeship, construction-employer training, and registered apprenticeship. Idaho contractor registration does not replace occupational training or prove trade competency.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Carpenter Salary in Idaho
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Idaho median wage for carpenter workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $59,310, the median wage in Idaho is approximately $7,310 lower. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Carpenters in Idaho
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONCarpenter Training Requirements in Idaho
Carpenters in Idaho typically learn the trade through apprenticeship, college instruction, or structured employer training.
- Study residential and commercial framing, concrete forms, interior systems, finish carpentry, print reading, and layout.
- Complete supervised field training with hand tools, power equipment, ladders, scaffolds, and fall-protection systems.
- Learn applicable building codes, construction mathematics, materials, estimating, and weather-resistant construction practices.
- Complete OSHA construction safety and employer-required equipment training.
- Register as a contractor or obtain a public-works license before independently contracting for covered projects.
Carpenter Training Providers in Idaho
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| College of Western Idaho | Nampa | View Program |
| College of Southern Idaho | Twin Falls | View Program |
| Idaho State University College of Technology | Pocatello | View Program |
| North Idaho College | Coeur d’Alene | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESCarpenter Apprenticeship Programs in Idaho
Construction Apprenticeship Training
Organization: Idaho Associated General Contractors
Carpenter Licensing Requirements in Idaho
Idaho does not issue an occupational license for employee carpenters. Businesses performing construction generally must register with the Idaho Contractors Board. Public-works projects require separate Public Works Contractors License Board licensing.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSCarpenter Job Outlook in Idaho
Idaho’s latest long-term projection indicates approximately 15% carpenter employment growth and about 1,220 annual openings during the 2024–2034 period.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the carpenter salary in Idaho?
The statewide median wage for carpenters in Idaho is approximately $52,000 per year, or $25.00 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Idaho require carpenter licensing?
Licensing requirements for carpenter workers in Idaho vary by work scope, license category, and jurisdiction. Applicants should verify current requirements with Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses — Contractors Board before beginning work or applying for an examination.
How long does it take to become a carpenter in Idaho?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately Varies by Program, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are carpenters in demand in Idaho?
Idaho projects carpenter employment to grow by approximately 15% from 2024 to 2034, with about 1,220 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Idaho Wages for Carpenter (SOC 47-2031) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Idaho Carpenter Wages
- Idaho Carpenter Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Idaho Carpenter Employment Trends
- Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses — Contractors Board — Licensing authority. Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses — Contractors Board