ID CLE | Idaho State CLE

Understanding ID CLE Requirements for Attorneys: A Complete Guide

Attorneys practicing in Idaho are required to maintain their professional competence and uphold ethical standards through ID CLE—Idaho’s Continuing Legal Education program. This system ensures that lawyers stay current with evolving laws, maintain professional integrity, and continue providing high-quality legal services. Both newly admitted and experienced attorneys must understand ID CLE requirements to maintain an active license and avoid compliance issues or penalties.

ID CLE Requirements for Idaho Attorneys
The Idaho State Bar oversees ID CLE compliance for all active attorneys in the state. Every licensed attorney must complete 24 credit hours of ID CLE every two years, which includes specific ethics requirements to promote professionalism and competence in practice.
The breakdown of required ID CLE hours includes:
• 3 hours of Ethics and Professional Responsibility
• 1 hour of Technology Competence
• 20 hours of General Credit
This structured approach ensures that attorneys enhance both their substantive legal knowledge and their understanding of ethical and technological responsibilities. Ethics courses help maintain high standards of conduct, while technology competence ensures lawyers can navigate modern legal tools safely and effectively.

How to Complete ID CLE Credits
Idaho attorneys can fulfill ID CLE requirements through a variety of approved learning formats. Traditional in-person seminars provide interactive learning and networking, while online and on-demand options allow attorneys to complete credits at their convenience.
Approved methods for earning ID CLE include:
• Live In-Person Seminars – Participate in interactive sessions with instructors and peers.
• Live Webcasts and Virtual Programs – Attend courses remotely in real time.
• On-Demand or Recorded Programs – Complete approved courses at your own pace.
• Teaching or Legal Writing – Attorneys may earn partial ID CLE credit for teaching accredited courses or authoring legal publications.
All ID CLE programs must be approved by the Idaho State Bar. Attorneys should confirm accreditation before registering to ensure credits will be counted toward compliance. Idaho also allows carryover of up to 6 excess general credits into the next reporting period, providing flexibility for attorneys who exceed the minimum requirements.

ID CLE Reporting and Deadlines
The reporting cycle for ID CLE operates biennially, based on an attorney’s last name:
• Attorneys with last names A–L report in odd-numbered years.
• Attorneys with last names M–Z report in even-numbered years.
Attorneys must complete all required ID CLE credits by December 31 of their reporting year and submit compliance affidavits by February 1 of the following year. Most accredited providers report attendance directly to the Idaho State Bar, but attorneys are responsible for verifying that their records are accurate.
Failure to comply with ID CLE requirements or reporting deadlines may result in late fees, administrative sanctions, or suspension from practice. Attorneys are advised to maintain certificates of completion for at least three years in case of audit.

Value of ID CLE
Beyond regulatory compliance, ID CLE offers substantial professional benefits. It ensures that attorneys remain informed about updates in Idaho law, develop practical skills, and strengthen ethical decision-making—all critical to providing competent legal services.
Examples of beneficial ID CLE topics include:
• Updates in Idaho civil, criminal, and family law
• Ethics, professional responsibility, and client confidentiality
• Trial advocacy, negotiation, and litigation skills
• Technology, cybersecurity, and law practice management
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion in legal practice
Ethics and technology competence courses are particularly important in helping attorneys maintain client trust, navigate professional challenges, and uphold integrity within Idaho’s legal community. Participation in ID CLE reflects an ongoing commitment to professional excellence, competence, and ethical practice.

Conclusion | ID CLE
In conclusion, ID CLE is a cornerstone of professional growth and ethical practice for Idaho attorneys. By completing accredited courses, carefully tracking credits, and submitting timely compliance reports, attorneys remain in good standing with the Idaho State Bar while continuously improving their skills.
Through ID CLE, Idaho attorneys demonstrate dedication to competence, professionalism, and client service—ensuring the state’s legal community maintains high standards of ethical and professional excellence.

For the latest official ID CLE details, forms, and FAQs, attorneys should visit the Idaho State Unified Court System’s CLE Board website.