State Trooper Requirements
Being a state trooper is more than just patrolling the state highways. It is a challenging job that might even put your life on the line. It requires dedication, sacrifice and selflessness. It’s more than just a job; it’s a career, a way of life.
The requirements and qualifications to become a state trooper vary by state. However, there are basic requirements that apply for all the states as described by theBureau of Labor and Statistics of the United States Department of Labor.
Primary requirements
First and foremost, the applicant must be a bona fide citizen of the United States. Candidates usually must also be at least 21 years old and meet height, weight and eyesight requirements.
Required Tests
Applicants must also pass certain physical, mental and emotional stress requirements. There are physical tests for vision, hearing, agility and strength to prove that they are physically fit for the job. Aspiring troopers must also pass a written examination. Civil examination scores are also taken into consideration. Candidates are then interviewed by officers to determine if they possess the important traits of a state trooper like honesty, sound judgment and a good sense of responsibility. In some departments or agencies, candidates are also assessed by psychiatrists and are given psychological tests and personality tests.
Furthermore, applicants are subjected to a background check to determine whether they have been law abiding citizens. Criminal records may cause the disqualification of a candidate. Applicants may also be subjected to lie detector exams and random drug tests.
Education and Training
The education requirements needed may vary from a high school diploma to a college degree. At the very least, an applicant must have had a high school education. Some departments require 1 or 2 years of college coursework while some require a college degree. Knowledge of two or more languages is a plus and applicants with a college degree in criminal justice are preferred.
If you succeeded in passing the screening, you will usually be sent to the police academy to undergo rigorous training for about 12 to 14 weeks. Theoretical and practical training will be conducted. There will be lessons in constitutional law and civil rights, state laws and local ordinances, accident investigation as well as practical training on patrol, traffic control, self defense and use of firearms, first aid and emergency response.
Passing the screening for state troopers is not a piece of cake. Only the finest individuals are worthy of this rewarding and worthwhile job.
