Here’s a brief list of what State Troopers do:

• Traffic Enforcement: Patrol highways and state roads to enforce traffic laws, conduct traffic stops, and promote safe driving practices.

• Accident Investigation: Respond to traffic accidents, conduct investigations, and provide assistance to motorists involved in crashes.

• Speed Enforcement: Monitor and enforce speed limits to reduce traffic accidents and ensure compliance with traffic laws.

• DUI/DWI Enforcement: Conduct sobriety checkpoints, administer field sobriety tests, and arrest drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Criminal Investigations: Investigate criminal activities such as drug trafficking, theft, assaults, and other offenses within their jurisdiction.

• Public Safety: Respond to emergencies, assist motorists in distress, and provide aid during natural disasters or hazardous situations.

Here’s how YOU can become one:

1. Research State Police Agencies:

• Identify state police agencies or highway patrol units in the state where you wish to work. Examples include the California Highway Patrol (CHP), Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), New York State Police (NYSP), etc.

• Research the agency’s mission, responsibilities, and specific hiring requirements.

2. Meet Basic Requirements:

• Education: Most state police agencies require a high school diploma or equivalent. Some agencies may prefer or require college coursework or a degree in criminal justice or a related field.

• Age: Typically, candidates must be at least 21 years old (age requirements may vary by state).

• Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or have legal authorization to work in the country.

• Clean Record: Have a clean criminal record with no felony convictions. Minor offenses may be allowed depending on the agency’s policy.

• Physical Fitness: Pass physical fitness tests that assess strength, endurance, agility, and other physical abilities.

3. Complete Education and Training:

• Law Enforcement Academy: Successfully complete a training program at a certified law enforcement academy specific to state police or highway patrol. This training covers topics such as state laws, traffic enforcement, vehicle operations, defensive tactics, emergency response procedures, and ethical standards.

• Field Training: After academy training, new recruits typically undergo a period of field training, working under the supervision of experienced troopers to apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations.

4. Pass Examinations and Assessments:

• Written Exam: Take and pass a written examination that assesses knowledge and skills relevant to state law enforcement duties.

• Physical Ability Test (PAT): Successfully complete a physical fitness test that may include tasks like running, obstacle courses, and strength tests.

• Background Check: Undergo a thorough background investigation, including a review of employment history, personal references, and criminal record check.

• Psychological Evaluation: Complete a psychological assessment to ensure mental and emotional suitability for the role.

• Polygraph Examination: Some state agencies may require candidates to undergo a polygraph examination to verify information provided during the background investigation.

• Drug Test: Pass a drug screening test.

5. Apply to State Police Agencies:

• Check for open positions on the state police agency’s website or through their recruitment portal.

• Prepare a resume highlighting relevant skills, education, and any previous experience in law enforcement, security, or related fields.

6. Interview:

• If selected, participate in interviews with representatives from the state police agency. Be prepared to discuss your qualifications, motivations for pursuing a career as a state trooper, and scenarios related to law enforcement.

  This is a very brief and general plan. To know your specific academic path for this career please talk to an advisor at the college or program you plan on attending!