A person generally commits the crime of prostitution by engaging in sexual contact or offering to engage in sexual contact in exchange for money or other consideration.

It is also a criminal offense to solicit (on a person's own behalf, or on behalf of another person), promote, or compel prostitution. For example, most states have laws that make it illegal to buy, sell, or profit from prostitution—which is generally the business of pimps and other human traffickers—known as pimping, pandering, procuring, soliciting, promoting, or compelling prostitution.

Prostitution laws vary from state to state and are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code.

In Idaho, prostitution and related activities are criminal offenses under state law. Prostitution is defined as the act of engaging in, or agreeing to engage in, sexual conduct with another person in exchange for a fee, money, or other compensation. This includes both the person offering sexual services and the person receiving them. Solicitation of prostitution, which involves requesting, encouraging, or demanding someone to engage in prostitution, is also illegal. Additionally, Idaho law prohibits the promotion of prostitution, which can include activities such as pimping, pandering, or operating a place where prostitution occurs. These offenses can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the specific circumstances and whether it involves minors or repeated offenses. The exact penalties and definitions are detailed in Idaho's statutes, particularly within the penal code.