Career Description Duties And Common Tasks
State troopers enforce vehicle safety laws on the areas highways and interstates, respond to accident scenes, conduct accident investigations, prepare court reports, and testify in court. Other common tasks include public education, heavy motor vehicle law enforcement , and public safety. In rural areas or areas with small police forces, state troopers are often the backup for local and county officers. Depending on performance in their positions, troopers may enjoy such advancement opportunities as senior trooper, captain, lieutenant, and sergeant. State police officers work for the state.
How To Become A State Police Officer
This article was co-authored by Saul Jaeger, MS. Saul Jaeger is a Police Officer and Captain of the Mountain View, California Police Department . Saul has over 17 years of experience as a patrol officer, field training officer, traffic officer, detective, hostage negotiator, and as the traffic units sergeant and Public Information Officer for the MVPD. At the MVPD, in addition to commanding the Field Operations Division, Saul has also led the Communications Center and the Crisis Negotiation Team. He earned an MS in Emergency Services Management from the California State University, Long Beach in 2008 and a BS in Administration of Justice from the University of Phoenix in 2006. He also earned a Corporate Innovation LEAD Certificate from the Stanford University Graduate School of Business in 2018. This article has been viewed 56,539 times.
Enlisting to serve as a state police officer requires meeting certain physical, mental and educational criteria. The requirements vary from state to state. In some states, state police officers are known as highway patrol, or state troopers. In general, state police officers help local police with investigations and emergencies that extend beyond the resources and jurisdictional boundaries of the local law enforcement agency.
Q What Does A Police Officer Do
Police Officers do many things while they are on the job.
Sometimes, they are patrolling the streets to make sure that no crime is happening.
Other times, they are investigating murders, robberies, or other crimes.
You can typically find Police Officers where there are large groups of people, like fairs, concerts, or festivals.
They are there to keep civilians safe.
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Ontario Police College Physical Component
As of September 2019, all applicants that have been offered a pre-employment letter by a police service will be required to successfully pass the PREP during their Basic Constable Training course at the Ontario Police College. The Ontario Police College is located in Aylmer, Ontario, which is the official training facility for all police constables across the Province.
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What Qualifications Do I Need To Be A Police Officer In South Africa

The requirements which applicants must satisfy are the following:
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You must be at least 18 years old but under the age of 30 years old.
- You must have a valid driver’s license.
- You must not have a criminal record.
- You must be fluent in English and at least one other official language.
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List Of Police Services Websites
Thank you for your interest in our local police services. Below is a comprehensive list of of the Police Services in Ontario. Once you click the link, you will be directed to the Police website.
Those interested in federal-wide policing can contact the RCMP for job opportunities. Please note that the RCMP does have a different Constable Selection Process and does not require the OACP Certificate in order to apply.
Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Section 83 of the Comprehensive Ontario Police Services Act, 2019, stipulates a person appointed as a police officer must:
is a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada
is at least 18 years of age
is physically and mentally able to perform the duties of the position, having regard to his or her own safety and the safety of members of the public
is of good character
has successfully completed, prescribed training by the Minister
In addition, you must
obtained a University Degree or a diploma from a college of applied arts and technology,
possess a valid driver’s licence with no more than six accumulated demerit-points, permitting you to drive an automobile in Ontario with full driving privileges
have current certification in Standard First Aid Level C CPR by the time the offer of employment is given
be able to pass a security clearance as well as background investigation, credit and reference checks.
This certificate is valid for 2 years. That includes all documents in Part A and the Part B, Part C testing.
Indiana State Police Recruit Academy Selection Process
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: How do I become an Indiana State Trooper?
Answer 1: All applicants must complete the online Trooper Application, in its entirety, at the following link: .
Question 2 : What are the requirements to become an Indiana State Trooper?
Answer 2: The minimum eligibility requirements for Trooper are:
No exception will be made for anyone who does not meet all requirements.
Question 3: Can I have tattoos/body modifications?
Answer 3: The Indiana State Police has an appearance standards policy to address tattoos and mutilations. The policy reads in part: “All Sworn, Capitol Police Section and Motor Carrier Inspector employees are prohibited from:
- Having any tattoo or mutilation on the head, neck or hands.
- Exposing any tattoo or mutilation while on duty or while operating a Department commission.
Anyone exposing any tattoo or mutilation that can be seen while wearing the issued short sleeve uniform shirt with ones arms extended straight downward in a position similar to Attention, during periods when the summer uniform is authorized, shall wear the issued winter uniform year-round to include the tie and felt hat.
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How To Become A Police Officer In Florida
The Sunshine State offers a multitude of advantages for its 20.2 million residents, including great weather and good communities.1 Residents in Florida are served and protected by the estimated 38,770 police officers working in the state.2 The state-level requirements for becoming a Florida cop are similar to other states. However, individual agencies may have additional requirements on top of the states recommended standards. For example, many agencies require new recruits to have an associate degree, while the state educational minimum is a high school diploma or GED certificate. On this page, youll find out more about Floridas requirements for law enforcement training as well as more information on the top police departments in the state.
Becoming A State Trooper
Your journey to a worthwhile and fulfilling law enforcement career starts today. Our candidate process is meant to challenge interested applicants and introduce the skills and tools they’ll need on the job and in their careers. Here you’ll find a step-by-step guide detailing what you’ll need to accomplish your goals and resources that’ll aid you throughout the process.
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Requirements To Become A Police Officer In Washington
Before becoming a police officer, it’s important to check that you meet your state’s minimum requirements to pursue a law enforcement career. The Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission establishes the police officer requirements for Washington. Here are the requirements to become a police officer in Washington:
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Be at least 18 years of age
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Have a high school diploma or GED
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Have no criminal record
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Possess a valid Washington driver’s license
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New York Police Jobs Outlook
There are currently 46,940 police and sheriffs patrol officers in New York.1 The future of police careers in New York looks promising. According to 10-year growth estimates, the state should see 9.4% growth in law enforcement jobs through 2026.7 During this period, there will be an estimated 4,000 average annual openings.7 These job openings are expected to be due to growth as well as replacements.
For more information current law enforcement openings, take a look at our police jobs board.
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Criminal Record And Activity
Any felony conviction is an automatic disqualification. Any criminal activity that would be considered a felony under Delaware law, federal law, or the law of the state in which the activity occurred is a disqualification. Applicants must have all prior criminal arrests expunged before being hired. .
Earn A College Degree

The education requirements to become a state trooper vary by state. For instance, Maine only requires their state troopers to have a high school diploma or GED before applying. Most states require that candidates earn at least an associate degree before attending the academy. Though any degree is acceptable, a degree in criminal justice or another related field might benefit your career as a state trooper and give you an advantage over other candidates. Students that study criminal justice take courses that focus on the following:
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Policies and laws
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Police supervision
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Criminal behavior
Some states accept relevant experience as a substitution for their education requirements. Veterans and police officers can often use their previous service instead of a college degree. This service usually includes any time in the reserves, National Guard or armed forces.
Related: How To Get a Criminal Justice Degree
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Requirements To Become A Police Officer In Ontario
BRUCE J. MARTIN
As with any police position, an officer in Ontario requires working with people to ensure safety and order. To this end, provincial and municipal police departments expect their candidates to be prepared physically, mentally and socially. Both males and females are encouraged to prepared themselves for police service, and all applicants are considered regardless of race, culture or background.
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List Of State Police Minimum Age Requirements
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Qualities Of Effective State Troopers
Though you can learn most of the necessary skills for becoming an effective state trooper in the academy, some inherent characteristics can ensure success in this field. Some of these traits include:
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Interpersonal skills: As a state trooper, interpersonal skills can help you interact with the public effectively.
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Critical thinking skills: Being able to think of innovative and creative solutions can be beneficial in this line of work.
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Persistence: Maintaining the ability to respond quickly, regardless of fatigue, is imperative as a state trooper.
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What Are The Minimum Requirements For Ontario Police Officer Applicants In Ontario
Before applying, ensure that you meet the minimum requirements. The following list of application requirements applies to most police agencies in Ontario:
- Minimum 18 years of age
- Fluency in English
- Canadian high school diploma or equivalent
- Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Valid current standard first aid / CPR C certification
- Class ‘G’ driver’s license, full driving privileges, and a maximum of 6 demerit points
- No criminal convictions which have not been pardoned and no criminal charges pending
In addition to the above, the Toronto Police Service requires candidates to meet the following requirements:
- Possess a valid O.A.C.P. certificate,
- Be able to pass a security clearance as well as a background investigation, credit check, and reference check.
Willingness to serve anywhere in the province is an additional requirement for those applying to the Ontario Provincial Police.
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State Trooper Salary & Employment Outlook
State Trooper Starting Salary
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics groups state troopers in the same category as police and detectives, police troopers, and highway patrol officers. The BLS reported an average salary of $65,400 for the year 2018. Jobs for state troopers are projected to grow 7 percent through 2026, which is about average for all jobs.
Wages differ from state to state. As recruits, Alaska state troopers earn a base rate before differential wages are added for geographic location, shift, or premium pay, of $34.98 an hour, or almost $73,000 a year. In Tennessee, on the other hand, entry-level troopers earn only $3,153 per month, or around $38,000 a year. In New York state , state troopers earn an annual basic salary of $57,297 even during their academy training. PayScale reports an average salary of $53,920 nationwide, with the opportunity to earn bonuses and profit-sharing even during the first year of service in many states.
Employment Benefits
Benefits differ from state to state, but troopers usually receive generous retirement benefits paid vacation holiday time education incentives paid sick leave, health, dental, and vision insurance training classes and a credit union. Agencies provide your uniform and all your equipment, including your firearm and your patrol car.
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Additional Phases Of The Selection Process
Those candidates who successfully complete the physical agility test will be invited to a that same afternoon. Candidates who obtain a score of at least 70% will be considered to advance to the comprehensive oral board interview and possible background investigation. All candidates will be subject to unannounced drug testing at any point during the selection process.
Once conditional offers of employment have been made, prospective appointees must successfully complete a polygraph examination, a psychological examination, a thorough medical examination, and an interview with the Director. The physician administering medical examinations will be selected by and paid by the Division of State Police. Candidates should be in excellent physical condition and take corrective measures, if necessary, before the medical examination date. No physical conditions can exist prohibiting appointees from performing the duties and responsibilities of the State Police Trooper I position.
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Pass A Background Investigation
The next step is to complete a background investigation. Your background will be investigated for offenses such as felony convictions and other disqualifying factors. You will be asked to authorize access to a variety of records, including your educational, financial, criminal history, and employment. Your friends, neighbors, family members, and work associates may all be interviewed.
What Qualifications Do You Need To Become Police Officer

You’ll need:
- legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations.
- knowledge of public safety and security.
- negotiation skills for keeping people safe.
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations.
- sensitivity and understanding for dealing with traumatic situations.
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How Long Is Police Training In South Australia
Your journey to becoming a police officer with SA Police begins with our two-year Constable Development Program. During your first six months, you’ll be based at our police academy in Taperoo, Adelaide. Here, you’ll combine academic studies in law, policy and procedure with practical and physical training.
Florida Highway Patrol Employment Eligibility
In order to be eligible for employment with FHP, applicants must not meet any of the automatic employment disqualifiers and must adhere to FHPs pre-employment drug policy. Please note that this list does NOT contain all employment disqualifiers for FHP. The FHP Background Investigation process is comprehensive and all information obtained will be verified.
Automatic Employment Disqualifiers
Below are specific elements that will automatically disqualify applicants for the position of State Trooper with FHP:
- Not a United States Citizen
- Not at least 19 years of age
- Not having a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent
- Not having at least one of the following:
- One year sworn or non-sworn working for a law enforcement or regulatory agency.
- Two years of active and continuous U.S. military service
- Two years of public contact experience
- Thirty semester-hours or forty-five quarter-hours at an accredited college or university
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How To Become An Ontario Provincial Police Officer
Interested in joining the Ontario Provincial Police? Here are just a few of the minimum qualifications needed to beat out the competition:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must have an Ontario Secondary School program diploma , or equivalent
- Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Must have a value Class G license with no more than six demerit points.
- Must not have a criminal record
- Must be certified in standard first aid and CPR
- Must pass medical, psychological, security, and financial assessment tests
Another must for the OPP? Being in top physical condition and having a willingness to serve. The latter is one to consider as detachments range from being located in large urban areas to small, isolated settings. When applying, you must pick your top six locations.
If you become a successful hire, the Constable Selection System requires a medical assessment be completed. This includes meeting the hearing and vision standards.
Check out this self-assessment tool to see where you stand.