Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) opened a new application cycle today for women and men considering a rewarding career in public service as a state trooper.
Last year, at the direction of Governor Shapiro, PSP suspended its educational requirement of 60 college credits. Since then, PSP has seen a huge uptick in qualified applicants, with the latest application period from May 8 to August 20 yielding 1,743 applications over a four month period. During the last hiring cycle with the college credit requirement in 2023, PSP received 1,374 eligible applications over six months. PSP has received nearly 9,000 applicants to become a state trooper during entirety of the Shapiro Administration.
“We’re looking for individuals who strive to succeed beyond the challenges of their surroundings,” said Colonel Christopher Paris, Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police. “If you want to help and serve others, are willing to work hard for the betterment of your community, and hold yourself to the highest standards of professionalism and integrity, consider joining our ranks as a Pennsylvania state trooper.”
Applications should be submitted via the Commonwealth’s employment website by November 27, 2024. Applicants who meet all eligibility requirements move on to a qualifying written examination. Applicants who pass the written exam must successfully complete a polygraph examination, background investigation, physical readiness test, medical screening, and psychological screening before training at the academy.
Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED certificate and a valid driver’s license from any state. They must be at least 20 years old at the time of application, and they must be at least 21 years old and cannot have reached age 40 upon entry into the training academy. Cadets must be a Pennsylvania resident and possess a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license at the time of graduation.
Cadet training lasts approximately 28 weeks and includes formal coursework in Pennsylvania’s crimes and vehicle codes, physical fitness activities, and training in police vehicles, firearms, and equipment. Cadets also receive training in military courtesy, platoon formation, drills, and formal inspections.
Upon completion of the training academy, cadets are promoted to trooper and receive an increase in salary, currently set at $66,911 annually.
The 2024-25 Pennsylvania budget provides $16 million for four cadet classes, supporting PSP’s mission to protect the safety of Pennsylvania communities and residents.
For more information on becoming a state trooper, including applicant requirements and job benefits, visit PATrooper.com.
For more information on the Pennsylvania State Police, visit psp.pa.gov.