Recruit Trooper Training

Troopers receive 21 weeks of rigorous training at the Kansas Highway Patrol Training Academy in Salina, Kansas. Experienced Instructors and Coaches lead Trainees through an extensive curriculum of basic and advanced law enforcement courses, including an intense fitness regimen. While the training is mentally, physically, and emotionally challenging, it is structured to prepare recruits for the high standards Kansas citizens expect from those who wear our badge.

Zero Week

Successful applicants and their families arrive in Topeka for a two-day orientation.  This time is designed to allow Trainees to meet their classmates and command staff as well as complete onboarding paperwork before the stress of academy life begins. Family members will also attend an orientation to introduce them to Trooper life and the demands that will be placed on their loved ones during training.

Weeks 1-8

Phase one- Foundational Training

During this phase, Trainees encounter a high-stress, structured environment designed to build resilience, self-discipline, and Trooper culture.  Coaches are present daily to provide intensive guidance to establish standards and expectations for the entire class.

Weeks 9-19

Phase two – Developmental Training

During this phase, Coaches mentor Trainees to help them demonstrate independence. Focus is placed more on individual responsibility and less on the class as a whole to reinforce decision making and problem solving. Trainees are given one evening off per week for personal time where they can leave campus if they choose.

Transition Week

Trainees receive a week-long break to manage personal business such as spending time with family, relocating, securing housing, and preparing for the next phase of training.

Weeks 17-21

Phase three- Professional, Individual Training

Academy life transitions to a professional individual training approach. During this phase, Trainees continue to conduct team building activities such as marching and maintaining order, while training shifts entirely to individual accountability and professional self-management. Physical conditioning is strongly encouraged with mandatory PT tests and 10K run.

Trainees are free to leave campus in the evenings and oversight transitions to academy staff.

Continuing Education

Phase four – Field Training

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.