State police officers, or state troopers, are law enforcement officials whose jurisdiction includes the entire state they work in. This differs from typical police officers in that such a law enforcement official’s jurisdiction ends after they cross their city or township boundary lines. State troopers, essentially, have no boundaries within the state. In fact, the state police officer position was originally created as a way to prevent criminals from fleeing city limits.

State police officers commonly patrol busy roads and highways on the watch for reckless or drunken driving, expired registration tabs and semi-trucks and other vehicles that might be involved in drug trafficking. They’re also commonly the first responders to highway accidents. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, state police officers make over $55,000 per year, or about $26.45 per hour. Here’s a look at how to become a state police officer:

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$55,010
High School or GED


794,300
7%
58,700

Find Related CareersSOURCE: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Before you can apply to the state police program in the respective state that you want to work in, you first need to meet certain requirements. These include:

• Being a U.S. citizen.
• Possessing a valid driver’s license.
• Being at least 18 years old.
• Being free of felony convictions, domestic violence or public corruption charges.
• Being a high school graduate or having completed a GED program.

If you meet all of these standards, then applying to the state police is the next step. In doing so, you’ll likely need to provide copies of your birth certificate, diploma, military documents, transcripts and recommendations. Application requirements vary on a state-by-state basis.

Pass the Tests

Just because your application has been accepted doesn’t mean that you’re on the fast track to becoming a state trooper. Not everybody is fit for such a job. That’s why the next step, after the application process, is taking written and physical tests. Written tests will check your basic math and writing skills. Some customized written tests may also be administered to gauge your attributes.

Then, there’s the physical tests, which test for stamina, strength and fitness. This is often accomplished through push-ups, sit-ups and running. While both written and physical tests vary on a state-by-state basis, some states may also make you take a handgun test.

Background Checks and Other Exams

After you’ve passed the testing portion, then there’s a slew of other formalities that are administered. First, there’s a background check, which look at things like your criminal and employment history. A polygraph test is then administered to verify much of the information you provided in the application you submitted. And just when you think you’re out of the woods, there’s the interview that you must go through with a senior officer. The interview is commonly the last step in the process before you’re hired, but it should be taken very seriously. If the senior officer isn’t impressed with your interview, he or she has the right to turn you away, effectively ending your goal of becoming a state police officer.

If the interview goes well and you’re hired, there’s more exams you first must go through. You’ll have to pass a medical exam to ensure you’re medically able to uphold the responsibilities of a state trooper. There’s also a psychological exam, to make sure you’re mentally fit to handle the job duties. Finally, there’s a drug test you’ll have to take. If all goes well, then you move on to the final step before you’re out on the road…

State Trooper Training Program

Every state trooper program varies by state and can last from a few weeks to several months. The curriculum is often loaded with information on state and federal laws, as well as duties and responsibilities. After completing that program, you’re ready to begin your career as a state police officer.