Over 130,000 Idahoans are veterans of our Armed Forces; 10 percent of the adult population and one of the highest percentages in the country. We are grateful for what our veterans have done for all of us and want to make sure they receive all the benefits they have earned.

Idaho Code, Title 65, Chapter 505, updated during the 2011 legislative session, requires all state, county, city and other local governments and political subdivisions in Idaho to provide preference to qualified veterans applying for any government job except those held by so-called key employees, who are in at-will or non-classified positions for which no selection process is used.

The law also requires all governments to provide notice of that preference in all announcements, advertisements or other solicitations for applicants.

Title 65, Chapter 5 details the law on veteran’s benefits, government responsibilities and penalties and liabilities for non-compliance with the preference requirement.

Please review these revised portions of the Idaho Code and update, as necessary your recruitment, selection and employment policies and procedures to ensure compliance.

The department’s 25 local offices throughout the state are available to assist employers in recruiting and hiring and our staff are trained in fulfilling this veteran preference requirement.

Information on the locations of the Department of Labor’s 25 local offices and contact numbers for the veterans’ coordinator and local office managers are at the Idaho Department of Labor Web site at idaho.labor.gov.

Veterans Preference FAQ

Translating military skills to civilian skills (PDF)

Knowing about these authorities and identifying your eligibility will enhance your job search. These special authorities represent a few of many appointing authorities that agencies can use entirely at their discretion. Veterans are not entitled to appointment under any of these authorities. Check the vacancy announcements, which should clearly state, "Who May Apply."

Feds Hire Vets

Topics on this federal website may include:

• Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA)
• Veterans Employment Opportunity Act of 1998, as amended (VEOA)
• 30% or More Disabled Veteran
• Disabled Veterans Enrolled in a VA Training Program
• Schedule an Appointing Authority

Federal veteran employment information

Idaho Statute, Title 65, Chapter 5: Rights and Privileges of Veterans