Qualifications, Hiring Process & Training

Qualifications to become a Trooper

  • Free of conviction of any crime punishable by imprisonment in a federal or state penitentiary.
  • Good physical and mental condition.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen and at least 21 years of age when recruit training begins.
  • Must pass vision and hearing standards.
  • Possess a high school diploma or GED.
  • Possess a valid U.S. driver’s license.
  • Willing to live and work anywhere within the State of Kansas. Residency requests are considered.

Training

Basic Training Academy

Troopers receive 21 weeks of rigorous training at the Kansas Highway Patrol Training Academy in Salina, Kansas. Experienced instructors and coaches lead the trainees through an extensive curriculum of basic and advanced law enforcement courses, including an intense fitness regimen. Upon graduation from the Training Academy, Probationary Troopers begin 560 hours of field training with a field training officer; approved Lateral Transfer individuals will complete at least 400 hours of field training with a veteran Trooper. While the training is both mentally and physically challenging, it is structured to prepare Trainees for the high standards Kansas citizens expect from those who wear this badge.

Hiring Process Components

Applicants must pass an online exam, physical agility test, polygraph, background investigation, and psychological test before any final offer of employment.

Vision Requirement

  • 20/40 corrected

Hearing Requirements

  • 500 Hz at 20 dB
  • 1000 Hz at 20 dB
  • 2000 Hz at 20 dB
  • 3000 Hz at 30 dB

Apply online Visit the State of Kansas Careers Portal Pass the test Once we have received your application, you will receive instructions by email on how to take the test. Background A two-part, comprehensive background investigation will be conducted to determine your suitability for the job. The investigation may include but is not limited to: employment history, driving history, criminal history, financial history, military history, and general life history, including social media. Interview Look and be your very best as you sit down with members of our Command Staff for a formal interview. These interviews will take place at General Headquarters in Topeka, Kansas. Assessments The Kansas Highway Patrol sets a very high standard, not only for ourselves, but those who want to join our ranks. Assessments include a Polygraph Examination, Physical Agility Test, Vision and Hearing Analysis, Fingerprinting, and Psychological Interview Academy Prep Life at the Academy is both physically and mentally challenging. Give yourself the best chance at success by being in top physical condition when you arrive. Take advantage of the time between the Final Offer of Employment and Day 1 to build your endurance. Our Application Process

Scroll through these images to see the components

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Tattoos

Body markings are strictly prohibited on areas visible above the lapel (neckline) of a standard issue Class C (v-neck, short sleeved) uniform shirt and below the sleeve of a standard issue Class B (long sleeved) uniform shirt (i.e., the neck, head, face, and hands).