Idaho § 65-504 - Basic preference and addition of points to competitive examination ratings
Full text of Idaho Idaho Statutes § 65-504 — Basic preference and addition of points to competitive examination ratings, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 65-504. Basic preference and addition of points to competitive examination ratings
(1) An applicant who is preference eligible is entitled to a preference in initial appointment with a public employer over other applicants for the same position who are not more qualified.
(2) Application of preference in civil service positions:
(a) Five (5) points shall be added to the earned rating of any veteran and the widow or widower of any veteran as long as he or she remains unmarried. The names of all five (5) point preference eligible applicants shall be placed on the register in accordance with their augmented rating. The additional points added by reason of veterans’ preference shall be used only for the purpose of initial appointment and not for the purpose of any promotion, transfer or reassignment.
(b) Ten (10) points shall be added to the earned rating of veterans discharged under honorable conditions who qualify as disabled veterans because they have served on active duty in the armed forces at any time and have a current service-connected disability of ten percent (10%) or more. Alternatively, ten (10) points shall be added to the earned rating of the widow or widower of any disabled veteran as long as he or she remains unmarried or the spouse of any eligible disabled veteran who cannot qualify for any public employment because of a service-connected disability. The names of all ten (10) point preference eligible applicants shall be placed on the register in accordance with their augmented rating. The additional points added by reason of veterans’ preference shall be used only for the purpose of initial appointment and not for the purpose of any promotion, transfer or reassignment.
(c) Veterans discharged under honorable conditions who served on active duty in the armed forces at any time and have a current service-connected disability of thirty percent (30%) or more shall be offered an interview if they are one (1) of the qualified applicants on the register for the position. If applicants are not ranked, an interview must be offered to such veterans who fully meet all qualifications for the position. Notwithstanding this subsection, employers shall not be required to interview more than a total of ten (10) applicants regardless of the number of such qualified veteran applicants.
Source: official Idaho text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Idaho § 65-504
What does Idaho Statutes § 65-504 cover?
Section 65-504 ("Basic preference and addition of points to competitive examination ratings") is part of the Idaho Statutes, the codified statutory law of Idaho. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Idaho § 65-504?
A common citation format is "Idaho Statutes § 65-504" (Idaho). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Idaho law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Idaho official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Idaho attorney.
How does Idaho § 65-504 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Idaho can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Idaho.