Trooper

Training Academy

Recruit Trooper Training

The academy gives individuals the tools and knowledge needed to exceed in this challenging career. Experienced instructors lead trainees through an extensive 21-week curriculum of basic and advanced law enforcement skills. Training at the Kansas Highway Patrol Training Academy in Salina is mentally, physically, and emotionally challenging, so it’s best to be in peak physical condition upon arrival. After graduation trainees will begin 560 hours of field training with a field training officer; approved lateral transfer individuals will complete at least 400 hours of field training.

Academy begins January 2027

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Request to talk with one of our recruiters.

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

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Our Troopers take an oath to support the constitution and to protect the lives of those living in and traveling through our beautiful state. This oath is more than just a statement, it is a belief. Because of this, the Kansas Highway Patrol is recognized as one of the most respected law enforcement agencies around. We strive to have an elite agency built upon our mission of SERVICE, COURTESY and PROTECTION. These are the qualities that we look for in the next generation of law enforcement, and why only those with these traits earn the title of State Trooper.

SERVICE

Every day, troopers are busy rapidly relaying life-saving medical supplies, providing essential coverage after natural disasters, encouraging others to follow the rules of the road, and rescuing those who desperately need our help. For it’s through the services we provide that our citizens are kept safe.

COURTESY

We earn the trust of our community through the courtesy we show. Kansas Highway Patrol employees build trust within the community by treating others with courtesy and respect. From fishing with children to changing a tire on the side of a busy highway, KHP troopers consistently demonstrate courtesy though the work we do.

PROTECTION

It’s through the protection we provide that innocence is preserved. Many times, what some may call a “routine traffic stop” leads to the discovery of something much more. Traffic stops conducted by the Kansas Highway Patrol often result in the apprehension of bank robbers and murderers, large narcotics seizures, and the recovery of human trafficking victims.

Our Mission: Service • Courtesy • Protection

State troopers are certified law enforcement officers who are dedicated to saving lives through enforcing Kansas laws.

Daily responsibilities include:

  • Assisting motorists
  • Assisting other law enforcement agencies
  • Detecting and deterring criminal activity
  • Investigating crashes
  • Performing traffic stops
  • Providing emergency medical assistance

State Troopers assist during civil disturbances and natural disasters, provide law enforcement at the Kansas State Fair, inspect school buses and motor vehicles, testify in court, and educate the public about traffic safety.

Road patrol services are the core of the Patrol’s everyday activities. State Troopers patrol Kansas’ roads and highways, performing traffic stops, providing emergency medical assistance, assisting motorists, and apprehending offenders. Troopers investigate motor vehicle crashes, provide support to other law enforcement agencies, and educate the public about traffic safety.

Career Options

Various opportunities for growth exist to make this career rewarding and challenging through retirement.

  • Administration
  • Aircraft Operations
  • Breath Alcohol Unit
  • Criminal Interdiction
  • Critical Highway Accident Response Team
  • Drug Recognition Expert
  • Emergency Management
  • Governor’s Security Detail
  • Homeland Security
  • Honor Guard
  • Instructor and Continuing Education Teams
  • K-9 Unit
  • Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program
  • Special Response Team

Automatic disqualifier

Applicants who have the following will be automatically disqualified for employment with the Patrol:

  • Any offensive marking(s) anywhere on the body
  • Tattoo, scarification or brand that appear on the neck, head, face or hands (a ring tattoo is acceptable).   See other automatic disqualifiers