Texas State Troopers, a division of the Texas Department of Public Safety (1-866-898-7667, [email protected]), are called upon to enhance public safety; strengthen statewide emergency management; combat terrorism and crime; and provide world-class services to the people of Texas.
This guide includes step-by-step instructions on how to become a Texas State Trooper by following these steps:
- Review minimum requirements for employment
- Submit an online application
- Submit required forms and documents
- Complete the physical readiness and written tests, polygraph and meet with the Assessment Board
- Complete psychological, medical, and vision tests
- Attend the DPS Training Academy
Step 1: Review Minimum Requirements for Employment
Before you apply for a job as a Texas State Trooper, it is best to learn about the minimum requirements to become a Texas State Trooper.
All candidates must:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Must be at least 20 years old (there is no maximum age limit for Texas State Troopers)
- Have completed at least 60 college hours from a regional accredited college or university (credit hours may be substituted for 24 months of military or police experience)
- Have a high school diploma or GED
Step 2: Submit an Online Application
The Texas Department of Public Safety accepts applications for Texas State Troopers year-round. All applications for Texas State Trooper are submitted online through the Texas Department of Public Safety’s online employment portal.
Individuals who meet the minimum requirements are notified by email or telephone of the next available test date.
Step 3: Submit Required Forms and Documents
You must print and complete the Waiver for Trooper Trainee form and the Background Investigation Questionnaire, notarize both forms, and submit them within 30 days before you can be scheduled for testing. You may also be required to submit an original certified copy of your birth certificate, certified college transcripts, certified high school transcripts; a current credit report, and a D-214 form (military personnel only).
All required documents must be mailed or delivered in person to your local recruiter. A list of local DPS recruiters can be found here.
Step 4: Complete the Physical Readiness, Written Tests Polygraph Exam and Meet with the Assessment Board
All candidates receive a testing date, at which time both the physical and written tests are administered. The written test includes both reading and arithmetic questions, and the physical readiness testing includes performing abdominal crunches, pushups, and a 1.5-mile run.
Only the top candidates are contacted to set up an appointment with the Assessment Board. During this time a background investigation will be completed.
Step 5: Complete Psychological, Medical, and Vision Tests
If you successfully complete all of the above tests you will be contacted with a conditional job offer, at which time you will need to undergo a psychological evaluation, a medical examination, and a vision test.
Step 6: Attend the DPS Training Academy
Upon receiving final approval, you will receive a letter of invitation to the DPS Training Academy.
The DPS Training Academy, through the Texas Law Enforcement Education training program, includes a 20-week recruit school for candidates who want to become Texas State Troopers. This program includes study in:
- Vehicle operations
- Firearms
- Use of force
- Effective report writing
- Communications skills
- First aid
- Physical training
- Arrest and control tactics