Spring Exam
A Log Scaling License Examination will be held on May 14-15, 2026, at the Idaho Forest Group, Lewiston log yard (see map below). The examination will begin at 7:00 a.m. (PDT) on Thursday morning, May 14th.
Individuals not completing the exam by end-of-day Thursday will be allowed to finish on Friday morning (May 15th).
This examination is open to any person wishing to apply for certification as an Idaho licensed log scaler, in compliance with provisions of Idaho log scaling laws. Currently licensed scalers may scale the exam logs for license renewal purposes, or are welcome to scale the exam logs for a check scale (no registration fee for currently licensed scalers).
ALL PERSONS PLANNING TO ATTEND THIS EXAMINATION SHOULD PREREGISTER WITH THE BOARD’S OFFICE. A COMPLETED APPLICATION FORM AND $25 FEE ARE GENERALLY REQUIRED FOR EXAM REGISTRATION.
REGISTRATION: Application form and fee requirements vary depending on whether you are a new applicant, previously tested applicant, the holder of a temporary permit or apprenticeship certificate, a current or formerly licensed scaler. When you pre-register with our office, we can inform you of the requirements for your particular situation. The sooner the better, but please contact us no later than Friday, April 24th, to allow ample time for processing.
Examination Process
New applicants (and some previously tested applicants or formerly licensed scalers) must take and pass a written exam before proceeding to the practical log scaling portion of the license examination. The practical exam requires scaling approximately 200 logs. Scale data is determined and recorded on forms that we will provide at the testing site. Your species identification, gross scale, and net scale must be within allowable limits of variation to pass the practical exam. Only for scalers holding a current and valid Idaho standard Log Scaler’s License – If you are scaling the exam logs for a check scale, you have the option of determining & recording scale data on a “handheld” recording device provided you furnish us with a printout on-site and delete the test data before leaving the exam site. Your printout must provide the appropriate species I.D.
Scaling Equipment
For the written exam you are allowed to use a Coconino Scribner decimal “C” scalestick, log volume card, and/or a simple calculator (no “scale recording devices”). For the practical exam you will need to bring a hardhat and provide the appropriate tools – scalestick, length tape, hand tape, hatchet or spud, calipers, etc. You may also use the Idaho Log Scaling Manual, other reference material, calculator, etc. (but no “handheld” recording device, unless you currently have an unexpired standard Idaho Log Scaler’s License).
Contact Us
Idaho Board of Scaling Practices
3284 W. Industrial Loop
Coeur d’Alene ID 83815
E-mail: stibsp@ibsp.idaho.gov
Fax: (208) 769-1524
Phone: (208) 769-1445
Directions to Examination/Log rollout area
- Idaho Forest Group is located in East Lewiston, south side of the Clearwater River.
- Head east on East Main Street (four-lane road)
- Stay on four lane road (name changes to Mill Road)
- Continue east on Mill Road, go past Clearwater Paper main gate (four-lane becomes twolane)
- Make left-turn at the South Gate entrance, follow road to log rollout area.
Map showing test site location at Idaho Forest Group, Lewiston:
We will have sign-in/orientation at the test site, 7:00 a.m. (Pacific Time) on Thursday, May 14th .
- In the event you have not completed pre-registration with the Board’s office, bring a completed & notarized application form, and the $25 fee with you.
- Remember to bring a hardhat, suitable clothing, and all your own scaling gear.