Meet the minimum age requirement
Have a valid driver’s license
Be a U.S. citizen or meet state residency requirements
Earn a high school diploma or GED
Meet education requirements for your state
Maintain a clean criminal record
Pass a background investigation
Pass a written civil service or entrance exam
Pass a physical fitness test
Pass a medical examination
Pass a vision test
Pass a hearing test
Complete a psychological evaluation
Attend and graduate from a state police academy
Complete field training
Obtain required certifications or licensing
Apply through your state police or highway patrol agency
Gain law enforcement experience if required or preferred
Maintain ongoing training and certification requirements