Connecticut state troopers are part of the Connecticut State Police (CSP) force, which was established in 1903 and has the distinction of being the oldest state police department in the United States. Many Connecticut state trooper jobs involve serving primarily as highway patrol officers; however, if you become a state trooper you might also function as a regular police officer in rural areas/towns where there is no local police force.
This guide provides the seven steps you must take to become a Connecticut state trooper:
- Look for recruiting announcement.
- Meet qualifications and apply
- Written Examination/physical fitness assessment
- Background investigation/polygraph
- Psychological evaluation/medical examination.
- Oral interview
- Appointment to the training academy
Step 1. Recruiting Announcement.
Look for a media announcement that the CSP is accepting applications for state trooper. DO NOT APPLY until a recruiting period is scheduled. Check the CSP website periodically.
If you are interested in obtaining more information about a fulfilling and challenging career with this distinguished law enforcement agency, attend a career fair at a local college/university or call the CSP recruiting office at 203/630-8070.
Step 2. Meet Basic Qualifications and Apply
You are asked to apply online at www.das.state.ct.us. Check to be sure you meet the following basic qualifications before submitting your application:
- You must be at least 21 years old.
- You must be a U.S. citizen by the date of appointment.
- You must be physically fit and in good health.
- You must have earned a high school diploma or GED.
- You must not have any felony or Class A or B misdemeanors.
- You need good educational and employment records and an excellent moral character.
- Your hearing and vision must be normal
- You must have a current Connecticut Motor Vehicle Operators license and establish residency in Connecticut.
Step 3. Written Examination/Physical Fitness Assessment
The multiple-choice written examination tests your judgment, observation skills, ability to solve problems, reading comprehension and logical reasoning.
The physical assessment evaluates your flexibility, strength, cardiovascular endurance and body fat composition. You will also be tested on these abilities:
- Sit-ups in one-minute
- Push-ups in one minute
- Sit-and-reach-toes
- One-mile run
Step 4. Background Investigation and Polygraph
There will be a thorough investigation of such things as your driving record, educational achievement, employment record, and credit history.
You will be asked to take a polygraph test that will question you about things like illegal drug use, alcohol abuse, criminal activities, physical abuse of others, etc.
Step 5. Psychological Evaluation/Medical Exam
The psychological evaluation will consist of both written and oral tests to determine your suitability for a law enforcement career. You will also undergo a routine medical check-up to establish that you are in good health.
Step 6. Oral Interview
A structured interview will demonstrate your communication skills as well as your acceptability as a Connecticut state trooper.
Step 7. Â Appointment to Attend the Training Academy
After successful completion of the selection process you will receive an appointment to attend a paid six-month training program at the Connecticut State Police Academy in Meriden CT.
The average annual starting salary for a Connecticut state trooper is $52,023/plus benefits and an expectation of regular increases up to $74,318. The CSP is an equal opportunity employer.