Low applicant numbers could deepen ISP trooper shortage in northern Idaho

LEWISTON, Idaho — A small applicant pool could deepen an ongoing shortage of Idaho State Police troopers in northern Idaho.

With just over a month remaining before applications close for the January trooper academy, only seven applicants for the Coeur d’Alene region and three for the Lewiston region currently meet the minimum requirements.

Those totals are expected to decline significantly as candidates move through the hiring process. Applicants must still complete physical fitness testing, interviews, a comprehensive background investigation, a polygraph examination, and medical and psychological evaluations before receiving an offer to attend the academy.

ISP is encouraging people who want to serve their communities and make them safer to consider a career as a state trooper.

“Applying to serve where you live is a personal investment in the safety of your family, your neighbors and your community,” North Central Idaho Captain Mike Mooney said. “We know there are people across northern Idaho who care deeply about their communities and have the character, work ethic and desire to serve. They may not realize they can be part of the solution to the trooper shortage in this region by taking that first step and applying.”

ISP currently has its greatest need for additional troopers in the Lewiston and Coeur d’Alene regions, followed by the Idaho Falls region.

For nearly two years, troopers assigned to other parts of Idaho have regularly traveled to the Lewiston region, stayed in hotels and worked shifts to help maintain staffing levels. Those temporary assignments also reduce the number of troopers available in the communities where they are normally stationed.

The next ISP trooper academy begins in January in Meridian. Recruits are paid employees during the academy, and lodging and meals are provided. After graduating, recruits complete field training before serving independently as Idaho State Police troopers.

Applications close at 4:59 p.m. MDT Sept. 18, 2026.

For complete qualifications, benefits and application instructions, visit this link.

To arrange a media interview with a trooper in these areas, contact Sophia Miraglio at 208-989-0837.

Download video of troopers in North Idaho here.

Posted in District 2 - Central Idaho, Uncategorized