1996–97 Scottish First Division

The 1996–97 Scottish First Division season began on 12 August 1996.

Overview
The 1996–97 Scottish First Division season ended in success for St Johnstone who won the title by twenty points from nearest rivals Airdrieonians.

Promotion and relegation from 1995–96
Promoted from First Division to Premier Division
 * Dunfermline Athletic
 * Dundee United

Relegated from Premier Division to First Division
 * Partick Thistle
 * Falkirk

Promoted from Second Division to First Division
 * Stirling Albion
 * East Fife

Relegated from First Division to Second Division
 * Hamilton Academical
 * Dumbarton