How to Become a Psychologist in Idaho (2025 Guide)
To become a licensed psychologist in Idaho, you need a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology from an accredited program, 2,000 hours of supervised experience (including at least 1,000 hours postdoctoral). You must pass the EPPP exam with a score of 450 or higher. The complete process takes 9-11 years, with median salaries around $96,100 nationally for clinical and counseling psychologists.
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Becoming a licensed psychologist in Idaho requires dedication, advanced education, and significant supervised clinical experience. The state of Idaho maintains rigorous standards to ensure that practicing psychologists provide high-quality mental health services to residents across the state.
Idaho's growing population and increasing awareness of mental health needs create expanding opportunities for qualified psychologists. Whether you're interested in clinical practice, research, or specialized areas like school psychology, understanding Idaho's specific requirements is your first step toward a rewarding career.
Education Requirements Overview
The Idaho Board of Psychologist Examiners requires all licensed psychologists to hold a doctoral degree in psychology or a closely related field from an accredited institution. This educational foundation ensures that practitioners have comprehensive training in psychological theory, research methods, and clinical practice.
Your doctoral program must be from an institution accredited by one of the regional accrediting agencies recognized by the US Department of Education. The psychology program should be a coherent entity within the institution, with a faculty psychologist bearing responsibility for the program.
Idaho accepts two types of doctoral degrees for psychology licensure:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) – Research-focused degree emphasizing original research, dissertation, and academic contributions to the field
- Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) – Practice-focused degree emphasizing clinical training, applied skills, and direct patient care
Both degrees qualify you for full psychology licensure in Idaho, though they lead to different career trajectories. We'll explore these differences in detail below.
Step-by-Step Licensing Process in Idaho
The path to becoming a licensed psychologist in Idaho follows a structured progression through education, supervised experience, and examination. Here's what you need to know about each stage.
Step 1: Earn Your Bachelor's Degree (4 Years)
Start with a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field from an accredited college or university. Your undergraduate education provides foundational knowledge in:
- General psychology principles and theories
- Research methods and statistics
- Developmental psychology
- Abnormal psychology
- Biological bases of behavior
Strong undergraduate performance and research experience strengthen your graduate school applications. Many students gain valuable experience through volunteer work, internships, or research assistant positions during their bachelor's program.
Step 2: Consider a Master's Degree (2 Additional Years - Optional)
While Idaho doesn't require a separate master's degree or psychology licensure, many doctoral programs include master's-level coursework as part of their curriculum. Some students choose to earn a standalone master's degree:
- Strengthen their doctoral program applications
- Gain additional research or clinical experience
- Explore specialization areas before committing to a doctoral program
- Work in psychology-adjacent fields while deciding on doctoral studies
If you're interested in exploring degree options, review psychology degree programs to find the right fit for your career goals.
Step 3: Complete Your Doctoral Degree (4-6 Additional Years)
Your doctoral program is the cornerstone of your psychology training. Idaho requires comprehensive coursework covering these substantive areas (three semester hours or five quarter hours each):
- Biological bases of behavior
- Cognitive-affective bases of behavior
- Social bases of behavior
- Individual differences
- History and systems of psychology
- Psychological measurement
- Research methodology
- Techniques of data analysis
Your doctoral program should include a pre-doctoral internship that meets professional standards and requirements. APA-accredited internships are preferred; however, non-APA-accredited internships that meet similar standards may be acceptable to the Idaho Board.
Step 4: Complete Supervised Experience (2 Years/2,000 Hours)
Idaho requires two years of supervised professional experience totaling at least 2,000 hours. This provides flexibility in how you accumulate experience:
- Up to 1,000 hours: May include pre-doctoral internship or practicum (can begin after completing one year of graduate study)
- At least 1,000 hours: Must be postdoctoral supervised experience under a licensed psychologist
During postdoctoral supervision, you'll need one hour of supervision for every 20 hours of service delivery. Supervision typically occurs on a weekly basis, and you cannot deliver psychological services for more than two weeks without direct supervision.
Idaho recognizes two levels of supervised practice status:
- Pre-licensure supervised practice: Working toward licensure after completing doctoral degrees, the supervisor must be on the premises at least half the time during service delivery
- Psychologist Under Supervision: Has passed the licensing examination, may work under less administrative control while completing the remaining supervision requirements
Step 5: Pass the EPPP Examination
The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is a standardized national exam administered by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB). Idaho requires a scaled score of 450 or higher.
The EPPP covers eight content areas:
- Biological bases of behavior
- Cognitive-affective bases of behavior
- Social and cultural bases of behavior
- Growth and lifespan development
- Assessment and diagnosis
- Treatment, intervention, and prevention
- Research methods and statistics
- Ethical, legal, and professional issues
Step 6: Apply for Idaho Licensure
Once you've completed your education, supervised experience, and passed the EPPP, submit your application to the Idaho Board of Psychologist Examiners. Your application packet includes:
- Completed and notarized application form
- Official transcripts from all graduate institutions
- Verification of supervised experience
- EPPP scores sent directly from ASPPB
- Background check clearance
- Application fee
The Board reviews each application individually to ensure candidates meet all educational and experience requirements before granting licensure.
| Educational Stage | Duration | Key Requirements | Online Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree | 4 years | A psychology or related field from an accredited institution | Online & Campus |
| Master's Degree (Optional) | 2 years | Advanced coursework, research, or clinical focus | Online & Campus |
| Doctoral Degree (PhD or PsyD) | 4-6 years | Comprehensive coursework, internship, dissertation/clinical project | Primarily Campus (some hybrid options) |
| Supervised Experience | 2 years | 2,000 hours total (at least 1,000 postdoctoral) | In-person clinical practice |
| EPPP Exam | Varies | Passing score of 450 | Computer-based testing |
PhD vs. PsyD: Which Path Is Right for You in Idaho?
Both the PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) and PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) qualify you for full psychology licensure in Idaho. Your choice between these degrees shapes your career trajectory and daily professional life.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology
The PhD is a research-focused degree that prepares you for careers in clinical practice, academic research, and university teaching. PhD programs emphasize:
- Original research: Conducting studies that contribute new knowledge to the field
- Dissertation requirement: Extensive research project demonstrating expertise
- Academic training: Preparation for university faculty positions
- Scientist-practitioner model: Integration of research skills with clinical practice
Best for: Students interested in research careers, academic positions, or clinical practice with a strong research component.
Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)
The PsyD is a practice-focused degree that prepares you primarily for direct clinical work with patients. PsyD programs emphasize:
- Clinical training: Extensive supervised patient contact and treatment experience
- Shorter dissertation: Clinical project or applied research rather than a lengthy thesis
- Practitioner-scholar model: Focus on applying psychological knowledge in clinical settings
- Direct service: More time spent developing clinical skills and treatment techniques
Best for: Students committed to direct clinical practice who want more hands-on training with diverse patient populations.
Career Outcomes in Idaho
Both degrees open doors to diverse psychology careers in Idaho:
- Clinical Practice: Private practice, group practice, or healthcare organizations (both PhD and PsyD)
- Research Positions: University research labs, government agencies, medical centers (primarily PhD)
- Academic Careers: University faculty, teaching, mentoring graduate students (primarily PhD)
- Hospital Settings: Medical centers, psychiatric hospitals, rehabilitation facilities (both PhD and PsyD)
- School Psychology: Educational institutions, special education services (both PhD and PsyD)
- Consulting: Organizations, legal systems, government agencies (both PhD and PsyD)
| Aspect | PhD in Psychology | PsyD in Psychology |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Research & Science | Clinical Practice |
| Dissertation | Extensive original research | Clinical project or applied research |
| Typical Program Length | 5-7 years | 4-6 years |
| Clinical Hours | Required but with less emphasis | Extensive clinical training |
| Career Paths | Clinical practice, research, academia | Primarily clinical practice |
| Funding | Often funded through assistantships | Typically self-funded |
| Idaho Licensure | Fully qualified | Fully qualified |
Idaho Psychologist Salaries and Career Outlook (2025)
Psychologists in Idaho earn competitive salaries, particularly considering the state's relatively lower cost of living compared to coastal states. Understanding salary expectations helps you plan your educational investment and career path.
National Salary Data for Psychologists
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024 data), clinical and counseling psychologists earn a median annual salary of $96,100 nationally. However, salaries vary significantly by specialization, experience, and geographic location.
National Salary Ranges for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists:
- 10th percentile: $48,820 annually
- 25th percentile: $66,050 annually
- Median (50th percentile): $96,100 annually
- 75th percentile: $129,020 annually
- 90th percentile: $168,870 annually
Idaho-Specific Salary Considerations
While comprehensive state-specific data for Idaho psychologists fluctuates, recent sources indicate that Idaho's psychology salaries generally track below the national median but offer strong purchasing power due to lower living costs. Clinical and counseling psychologists in Idaho typically earn between $65,000 and $95,000 annually, with experienced practitioners and those in specialized areas earning significantly more.
School psychologists in Idaho earn a median annual salary of approximately $73,840, reflecting the state's commitment to educational mental health services.
Factors Affecting Your Salary in Idaho
Several factors influence your earning potential as a psychologist in Idaho:
- Geographic location: Boise and urban areas typically offer higher salaries than rural communities
- Specialization: Neuropsychologists, forensic psychologists, and specialized clinical areas command premium rates
- Practice setting: Private practice, hospitals, schools, and government positions offer different compensation structures
- Experience level: Early-career psychologists start at lower ranges, with earnings increasing substantially with experience
- Additional certifications: Specialized training or prescriptive authority certification increases earning potential
Career Growth and Job Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% employment growth for psychologists from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Idaho's growing population and increasing mental health awareness create expanding opportunities for qualified psychologists.
Idaho's relatively high rate of mental illness (nearly 1 in 4 adults) combined with above-average utilization of mental health services creates sustained demand for clinical psychologists across the state.
Prescriptive Authority in Idaho
Idaho is one of only seven jurisdictions in North America that grants prescriptive authority to licensed psychologists. After earning your psychology license, you can pursue additional certification to prescribe medication by completing:
- A master's degree in clinical psychopharmacology from an accredited program
- Additional supervised clinical training
- Passing the required psychopharmacology examination
- Obtaining a conditional prescribing license
- Collaborating with a physician for at least two years before receiving full prescribing authority
This Certificate of Prescription Authority significantly expands your practice capabilities and can increase your earning potential substantially.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Psychologist in Idaho?
The complete path from starting your bachelor's degree to obtaining Idaho psychology licensure typically takes 9-12 years, depending on your educational choices and progress through supervised experience.
| Stage | Duration | Total Years |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree | 4 years | 4 years |
| Master's DegrDegree separate) | 2 years | 6 years |
| Doctoral Program (PhD) | 5-7 years | 9-11 years (or 11-13 with separate master's) |
| Doctoral Program (PsyD) | 4-6 years | 8-10 years (or 10-12 with separate master's) |
| Postdoctoral Supervised Experience | 1-2 years (concurrent with later doctoral work) | Varies (often overlaps) |
| EPPP Preparation & Licensure Application | 3-6 months | Final stage |
Fastest Path: 9 years (4-year bachelor's + 4-year PsyD + 1 year postdoctoral)
Typical Path: 10-11 years (4-year bachelor's + 5-6 year PhD + 1 year postdoctoral)
Extended Path: 12+ years (including separate master's, extended doctoral studies, or additional training)
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Psychologist in Idaho
How long does it take to become a psychologist in Idaho?
The complete process typically takes 9-11 years from starting your bachelor's degree to obtaining full licensure. This includes 4 years for a bachelor's degree, 6 years for a doctoral program (PhD or PsyD), and at least 1 year of postdoctoral supervised experience. While some supervised hours can be completed during your doctoral program, Idaho requires at least 1,000 hours of postdoctoral supervision under a licensed psychologist.
What's the difference between a PhD and PsyD for Idaho licensing?
Both the PhD and PsyD qualify you for full psychology licensure in Idaho. A PhD emphasizes research and prepares you for careers in academia, research, and clinical practice. A PsyD focuses primarily on clinical training and direct patient care. The PhD typically requires a more extended, research-focused dissertation, while the PsyD requires a shorter clinical project. Both degrees follow the exact licensure requirements in Idaho.
Can I obtain a license in Idaho with a psychology degree from another state?
Yes, Idaho accepts doctoral degrees from accredited institutions nationwide. Your degree should be from an institution accredited by one of the regional accrediting agencies recognized by the US Department of Education. The Idaho Board of Psychologist Examiners reviews each application individually to ensure your program meets Idaho's educational standards, regardless of where you earned your degree. How much do psychologists make in Idaho?
Psychologist salaries in Idaho vary by specialization and experience. Clinical and counseling psychologists typically earn between $65,000 and $95,000 annually, with experienced practitioners earning more. School psychologists earn a median annual salary of approximately $73,840. National data indicate a median wage of $96,100 for clinical and counseling psychologists. However, Idaho salaries tend to be slightly lower, offering strong purchasing power due to the state's lower cost of living.
Can psychologists prescribe medication in Idaho?
Yes, Idaho is one of only seven jurisdictions that grants prescriptive authority to psychologists. After obtaining your psychology license, you can pursue additional certification by completing a master's degree in clinical psychopharmacology, additional supervised training, and passing the required examination. You must first obtain a conditional prescribing license and collaborate with a physician for at least two years before receiving full prescribing authority. This Certificate of Prescription Authority enables you to prescribe medications to your patients independently after completing all the required training.
What is the EPPP exam, and what score is required in Idaho?
The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is a standardized national exam covering eight content areas of psychological knowledge and practice. Idaho requires a scaled score of 450 or higher. The exam is computer-based and administered through Pearson VUE testing centers. You must pass the EPPP before the Idaho Board will issue your psychology license.
Do I need to complete an internship to obtain a license in Idaho?
Yes, Idaho requires 2,000 hours of supervised professional experience, with at least 1,000 hours completed at the postdoctoral level under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. Most doctoral programs include an integrated pre-doctoral internship that can count toward part of your 2,000-hour requirement. APA-accredited internships are preferred but not required, as long as the training meets Idaho Board standards.
Key Takeaways
- Doctoral degree: Idaho requires a PhD or PsyD in psychology from an accredited institution for full licensure
- 2,000 supervised hours: You must complete 2,000 hours of supervised experience, including at least 1,000 hours postdoctoral under a licensed psychologist
- EPPP examination: Pass the national EPPP exam with a score of 450 or higher
- 9-11 year timeline: The complete path from bachelor's degree to degree certification typically takes 9-11 years
- Competitive salaries: Idaho psychologists earn $65,000-$95,000+ annually, with strong purchasing power due to the lower cost of living
- Growing opportunities: 6% projected growth from 2022-2032, with Idaho's population growth creating expanding career opportunities
- Prescriptive authority available: Idaho offers additional certification allowing psychologists to prescribe medications after a conditional license and physician collaboration
- Both degrees accepted: PhD and PsyD degrees both qualify for Idaho licensure with identical requirements
Ready to Start Your Psychology Career in Idaho?
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- Idaho Social Work Licensing
- Idaho Marriage and Family Therapist Licensing
- Explore AdUStional Psychologist Careers
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists, Industrial-Organizational Psychologists, School Psychologists, and Psychologists-All Other are based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
