From Voter Approval to First Ticket
Idaho voters approved the state lottery in November 1988, and the Idaho Lottery Commission began operations in July 1989. Idaho was one of the earlier western states to establish a lottery, launching with instant scratch-off games before introducing draw games. The constitutional amendment specified that net lottery income would benefit public schools and buildings.
Revenue and Mission
The Idaho Lottery's revenue split is straightforward: 62.5% of dividends go to Idaho public schools and 37.5% to the Permanent Building Fund, which constructs and maintains state buildings including schools, universities, and correctional facilities. Since 1990, the Idaho Lottery has returned over $1.27 billion in dividends to the state. The state levies a 5.3% tax on lottery winnings.
Key Milestones
- 1988: Voters approve constitutional amendment authorizing the Idaho Lottery
- 1989: Idaho Lottery begins operations; first tickets sold in July
- 1990: Idaho Cash launches as the state's signature draw game
- 1996: Idaho joins Powerball
- 2010: Mega Millions becomes available through cross-selling agreement
- 2017: Lotto America relaunches with Idaho participation
- 2026: Millionaire For Life replaces Lucky for Life
Idaho Cash: The State's Signature Game
Idaho Cash (5/45) has been the Idaho Lottery's flagship in-state game since its launch. With jackpot odds of roughly 1 in 1,221,759 — far more favorable than multi-state games — Idaho Cash produces regular winners across the Gem State. The rolling jackpot starts at $20,000 and has delivered numerous five- and six-figure prizes to Idaho players over three decades.
Impact and Legacy
The Idaho Lottery has grown from simple scratch-off offerings to a full portfolio of seven draw games, scratch games, and pull-tab games. Its dedicated funding of public education and state buildings has made it a significant contributor to Idaho's infrastructure. For a full breakdown of every current game, see our ID Lottery Games Guide, or visit the Idaho lottery dashboard for live results and analysis.
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