Missouri State Highway Patrol Requirements

The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) is a state-level police agency that provides law enforcement services across the state. Missouri State Highway Patrol Troopers work within the MSHP's Field Operations Bureau. Troopers in the MSHP primarily focus on traffic law enforcement and traffic safety. On this page, you will find more information on what Missouri State Highway Patrol Troopers do, Missouri state trooper salaries, and how to become one.

Steps to Becoming a Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper

1. Submit a pre-employment inquiry online.
2. Pass the written National Criminal Justice Officer Selection Inventory (NCJOSI) exam.
3. Pass the physical fitness assessment.
4. Complete a polygraph exam.
5. Complete a background investigation.
6. Appear for an oral board interview.
7. Complete a medical exam and drug screening.
8. Complete a psychological evaluation.
9. Complete 25 weeks of recruit training at the Missouri State Highway Patrol Law Enforcement Academy.
10. Complete three months of field training and one year of probationary employment.
11. Begin working as a fully-sworn Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper.

How to Become a Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper

To become a Missouri State Highway Patrol officer, candidates must be at least 21 years of age, a citizen of the United States and resident of Missouri, and meet physical fitness and character requirements. Candidates must also have at least 30 credit hours of college coursework or two years of active military duty or certified peace officer experience. Candidates go through extensive abilities testing as well as a thorough background check before being admitted to the training academy. Note that upon accepting an offer of employment, recruits must agree to serve for at least three years. Those who do not must reimburse the department for the cost of their training and uniforms.

Missouri State Trooper Job Description

Missouri state troopers primarily work to maintain safe traffic conditions for the public. This includes investigating accidents, directing and controlling traffic, assisting drivers, investigating crimes, making arrests, writing reports, and appearing in court as needed. Missouri state troopers may be called in for emergencies at any time. Qualified troopers may apply for duty with one of the Missouri State Highway Patrol's specialized units, which include the water patrol, criminal investigation, and commercial vehicle enforcement divisions.

Missouri State Trooper Training, Prerequisites, and Education Requirements

In addition to having 30 credit hours of college coursework or acceptable military experience and meeting the requirements above, candidates for positions as Missouri State Highway Patrol Troopers must be willing to move anywhere within the state of Missouri. Applicants must also pass a written test, a physical fitness test, a drug screening, a psychological evaluation, and an extensive background investigation. Once a candidate passes the initial screenings and tests, they may be made an offer of employment. That is when they will attend the 25-week Missouri State Highway Patrol Law Enforcement Academy, located in Jefferson City, as an employee of the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

During the academy, recruits learn pursuit driving, accident investigation, self-defense, firearms training, physical conditioning, arrest procedures, criminal law, civil law, and traffic law. They also receive training in cultural diversity. After graduation, troopers are assigned to a three-month field training period with an experienced officer and are classified as probationary hires for one year. After successful completion of the probationary period, new hires are considered fully qualified MSHP Troopers.

Missouri State Trooper Salary and Job Outlook

Missouri State Highway Patrol probationary troopers start at an annual salary of $41,160.¹ Pay for sworn officers is based on experience and qualifications and is set by the Missouri General Assembly. Missouri State Troopers also receive medical insurance, life insurance, and retirement benefits, as well as other benefits like paid holidays and vacation.

Contact Information

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/motrooper/?rf=146361658745486
Twitter: https://twitter.com/mopublicsafety

Missouri State Highway Patrol
1510 East Elm St
Jefferson City, MO 65101
https://www.mshp.dps.missouri.gov/MSHPWeb/Root/index.html

Frequently Asked Questions

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What types of jobs are there with the Missouri State Highway Patrol?

What is the Missouri State Highway Patrol physical fitness test like?

What is the National Criminal Justice Officer Selection Inventory (NCJOSI)?

References:
1. Missouri State Highway Patrol: https://www.mshp.dps.missouri.gov/MSHPWeb/PatrolDivisions/HRD/Trooper/troopCareer.html