As sworn officers with the New York State Police, New York State Troopers work to improve highway safety, detect and prevent terrorism, and prepare for and respond to emergencies. New York State Troopers also provide routine police services like patrols and answering calls for service. The New York State Police is one of the 10 largest police agencies in the US and employs over 4,500 sworn officers.1Continue reading to find out more about what New York State Troopers do and how to become one
Steps to Becoming a New York State Trooper
- Apply to the New York State Police.
- Pass the entrance examination during an open exam period.
- Appear for Candidate Processing Weekend when contacted.
- Pass the physical ability test.
- Complete a psychological evaluation.
- Complete a background investigation and polygraph test.
- Pass a medical examination.
- Be placed on an eligibility list.
- Complete Basic School for New York State Troopers at the New York State Police Academy.
- Complete the 10-week Field Training and Evaluation Program (FTEP).
- Work for one year as a probationary trooper.
- Begin working as a fully certified New York State Trooper.
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How to Become a New York State Trooper
The minimum qualifications for New York trooper recruits include being between 21 and 30 years of age and a New York state resident with a valid driver’s license. Trooper recruits must also have a high school diploma or GED plus at least 60 credit hours of college coursework. Part of the college coursework requirement may be waived for those who have had at least two years of military service or who are POST-certified police officers.
For those who meet the minimum qualifications, the first step to becoming a New York State Trooper is to complete the application and take the entrance exam. The entrance exam is only offered once every four years. After the exam, eligible candidates are called in for a Candidate Processing Weekend based on their ranking from the exam and any applicable veteran’s preference credits. During Candidate Processing Weekend, candidates are evaluated regarding their physical performance and complete a psychological evaluation, a medical examination, and a polygraph test. Recruits who pass all stages are placed on an eligibility list. As of 2017, there were 13,000 candidates on the eligibility list to become a New York State Trooper.1Prospective troopers may then be invited to complete Basic School for New York State Troopers at the New York State Police Academy based on their ranking on the eligibility list and the availability of training spots.
New York State Trooper Job Description
A New York State Trooper has many job duties, ranging from traditional duties to specialized investigations. They enforce vehicle and traffic laws as well as other laws across the state. In many areas, New York State Troopers are the first responders to any call for service. Troopers may be called on to testify in court and to help prosecute cases. They respond to emergency situations and are required to make split-second decisions in high-pressure scenarios. After four years of service, NYS Troopers may apply for promotion or appointment to specialized duties in areas like the Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Protective Services Unit, or the Aviation Unit.
New York State Trooper Training, Prerequisites, and Education Requirements
To become a New York State Trooper candidates must be at least 20 years old and no older than 30 when their application is filed. However, this age limit may be extended by up to six years if an applicant has active duty military service. Applicants must be a citizen of the US, a resident of New York state, and have a high school diploma plus 60 college credit hours. An automatic disqualification occurs for a felony conviction. Potential state troopers must be able to work any shift, including holidays, and be willing to accept a post anywhere within the state. Candidates are also required to have at least 20/100 eyesight uncorrected and 20/20 corrected. They must not have any visible tattoos, brands, body art, or body piercings.
Those who meet the above requirements, post passing scores on the state’s written exam and physical ability test, and pass a medical exam, psychological evaluation, and background investigation will be placed on an eligibility list and may be invited to complete the Basic School for New York State Troopers.
Basic School is an intensive 26-week training program that incorporates physical training and conditioning with rigorous academics in criminal justice, all aimed at developing trooper recruits’ law enforcement and response skills. Following graduation, candidates move to a 10-week Field Training and Evaluation Program (FTEP), in which recruits perform regular duties while paired with a Field Training Officer. This step is considered part of the screening and evaluation process; recruits who pass this stage will continue to be on probationary status for one year. After successfully completing the probationary period, recruits will be fully appointed as sworn New York State Troopers.
New York State Trooper Salary and Job Outlook
The New York State Trooper base salary is $53,159 during academy training.1After graduation from training and during the one-year probationary period, the salary increases to $70,652.1After completion of probation and appointment as a New York State Trooper, the salary increases to $75,252.1After five years, the base salary for an NYS Trooper rises to $84,739.1These salary tiers do not include compensation for longevity, hazardous duty, expanded duty, or the location compensation offered for select counties. Troopers are eligible to apply for promotion to Sergeant after four years of service.
Troopers receive 120 hours of vacation time per year, which increases with the length of service, as well as 96 hours of paid holiday time. They are entitled to 104 hours of sick leave per year and 24 to 40 hours of personal leave. There are also health, dental, and vision insurance benefits as well as competitive retirement benefits that are fully effective after 20 years of service.
Contact Information
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/nyspolice
Twitter:@nyspolice
New York State Police
800 Crooked Hill Rd
Brentwood, NY 11717
https://www.troopers.ny.gov/
Frequently Asked Questions
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What types of police jobs are there for New York State Troopers?
While highway patrol is one of the most visible duties of the New York State Police, New York State Troopers may work in a range of specialties, including narcotics enforcement, forensics, computer crime, homicide investigations, and counterterrorism.
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How competitive is the selection process to become a New York State Trooper?
The selection process for prospective New York State Troopers is extremely competitive, beginning with the entrance exam. Typical eligibility lists from the exam number in the thousands of candidates; approximately 10 candidates are processed for each available position.1 Candidates can remain on the eligibility list for up to four years and are often contacted years after taking the exam, even if their eligibility rank is low. As a result, prospective troopers are encouraged to maintain excellent physical condition and be ready to report for the next stage in the hiring process at any time.
(Video) NYS Trooper Tries to Gaslight Journalist & Fails Misrably! When Will They Learn? 1st Amendment Audit -
What is Basic School for New York State Troopers like?
Basic School for New York State Troopers at the New York State Police Academy is a 26-week, live-in, paramilitary training environment. Physical fitness, technical skills, and academic learning are emphasized. Graduates will have completed a total of 1,095 hours of training in preparation for police work and the demands of the job.
References:
1. New York State Police Recruitment Center:http://nytrooper.com/salary_benefits
FAQs
Is it hard to become a state trooper in New York? ›
The selection process for prospective New York State Troopers is extremely competitive, beginning with the entrance exam. Typical eligibility lists from the exam number in the thousands of candidates; approximately 10 candidates are processed for each available position.
What do you need to be a state trooper in New York? ›Must be a New York State resident and have a valid New York State driver's license at time of appointment. Must be able to pass a Physical Ability Test (PAT): sit-ups, push-ups and a 1.5 mile run. Must be able to work rotating shifts any day of the week, including holidays.
How many questions are on the NY police? ›The New York State Police Trooper Examination will consist of 150 multiple-choice questions that will measure your cognitive abilities as well as your behavioral characteristics and attitudes. When you arrive at the testing center on the day of the test, you will need to follow the proper check-in procedures.
How long is state trooper academy NY? ›Curriculum. Recruits must successfully complete 1,095 hours of training at the New York State Police Academy.
What is a good score on the NYS trooper exam? ›In order to join their team, you need to pass the NYPD Police Exam. There is a pass threshold of 70% that you need to pass over in order to proceed with the application process. The better the results, the higher the chances you stand to join NYPD.
Can NYS troopers have tattoos? ›Overview. Effective for the 2022 Eligibility List, the New York State Police tattoo policy has been revised to allow candidates with visible tattoos to attend candidate processing. Candidates with visible tattoos SHOULD REPORT to candidate processing weekend.
How much do NY state troopers make? ›Average New York State Police State Trooper yearly pay in the United States is approximately $75,960, which is 30% above the national average.
What disqualifies you from being a police officer? ›Felony convictions. Serious misdemeanors. Current drug use or past drug abuse. Dishonorable discharge from military service.
Do you need a degree to be a New York State Trooper? ›Must not have reached their 30th birthday by the date of application, once applications become available. The maximum age may be extended one year for each year of full-time active military duty - up to a maximum of 7 years. Have a high school graduate or equivalency diploma, at time of application.
Can you retake NYPD exam? ›If you fail to achieve a passing score of 70, you may retake the examination in 6 months. If you pass the exam, regardless of your score, you must wait 1 year to be eligible to retake the exam.
Does the NYPD polygraph? ›
Polygraph tests are not admissible in court, and employers are prohibited by Federal law from using them to screen civilian job applicants. The U.S. military, the NYPD, the U.S. Marshals Service and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement do not use them, according to the Associated Press.
What is a police aptitude test? ›The Entrance Exam for police officers measures the basic skills necessary to perform successfully as a police officer. The test covers four areas: (1) math skills, (2) reading comprehension skills, (3) language skills, and (4) writing skills.
Do you get to go home during police academy? ›Training Day
The Academy will be your “home away from home” for the next several months (you do not live on Academy grounds). Your training day will typically begin at 0645 hours and end at approximately 1700 hours. You must remain on Academy grounds during training hours.
| Rank | State | Average Police Officer Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Alaska | $78,839 |
| 2 | Washington | $73,316 |
| 3 | Oregon | $70,488 |
| 4 | California | $67,408 |
The Uniform Force of the New York State Police is made up of more than 3,500 men and women. These sworn members are the Troopers you see responding to calls, patrolling roadways and helping the public wearing the iconic gray uniform and Stetson.
What is a high Pelletb score? ›PELLETB passing score
Hence, your aim is to score somewhere around 50. If your score is below 40 it is considered below average and if it is above 60 – above the average. If you score 42 or higher, you are considered to have passed the test successfully.
Although the specific exam may vary by agency, written tests typically cover similar material. A passing score generally is 70% or above. If you get a higher score, it will give you an advantage when you enter the next stages of the selection process.
What is a good score on the CPCA exam? ›You must pass the CPCA written with a score of 70% prior to submitting your application. Step 2 – Applicants will be invited to participate in the Oral Board Examination to be held in Fairfield based on their written score results. Not every candidate who receives a written score of 70% will advance.
What's the cutoff age for NYPD? ›Requirements. Qualifying Age:The minimum age of appointment is 21 years old. However, candidates are eligible to take the Police Officer's Entrance Exam at seventeen and one half (17½) years old. Candidates must register to take the Entrance Exam prior to their 35th birthday.
What does the black armband tattoo mean? ›Traditionally, a solid black armband tattoo can represent the loss of a loved one. After all, black is the color of death and mourning. The shape effectively symbolizes the act of wearing the memory of the deceased on your sleeve.
Can you be a cop with a neck tattoo? ›
Our new policy proposal would affect tattoos from the short sleeve line down to the wrists or visible on the legs. No neck tattoos or hand tattoos are permitted unless approved by the Chief of Police or his designee.
How much do cops get paid an hour? ›| Percentile | Hourly Pay Rate | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 25th Percentile Police Patrol Officer Salary | $27 | US |
| 50th Percentile Police Patrol Officer Salary | $29 | US |
| 75th Percentile Police Patrol Officer Salary | $32 | US |
| 90th Percentile Police Patrol Officer Salary | $34 | US |
The New York State Police works to ensure the safety of the state's roadways, prevent and investigate crime, prepare for and respond to emergencies and disasters and provide support to other law enforcement agencies.
How much does a Police Officer make an hour in New York? ›| Job Title | Range | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Police Officer | Range:$14 - $40 (Estimated *) | Average:$26 |
| Safety Officer | Range:$12 - $28 (Estimated *) | Average:$18 |
| Detective | Range:$33 - $67 (Estimated *) | Average:$47 |
| Receptionist | Range:$12 - $24 (Estimated *) | Average:$17 |
- Personal history.
- Negative information from other agencies (such as previously failing a polygraph)
- Employment background.
- Criminal behavior.
- Financial information.
- Illegal drug use.
- Alcohol use.
- Illegal or deviant sexual behavior.
Over the last few years, the rules regarding eligibility to become a police officer have been slightly relaxed. However, there are still strict entry requirements and some convictions/caution will result in your application being immediately rejected whilst others will be considered on a case by case basis.
Can you join police with criminal record? ›Criminal convictions and cautions
All convictions, cautions (including any received as a juvenile), involvement in any criminal investigation and bind-overs imposed by a court must be declared. They don't automatically mean you'll be rejected from joining the police service.
First and foremost, a state trooper is a law enforcement officer. Just like their counterparts in state and local police, state troopers are charged with enforcing laws and promoting public safety.
Do I need college to be a state trooper? ›State Trooper Requirements
Most states will require that an individual have at least an associate's degree before entering the police academy. The degree does not necessarily have to be in a specific field, but some states prefer that their officers have a background in criminal justice.
SHORT HEIGHT - minimum of 5'8" in bare feet is recommended; 5'7" may be accepted. EXCESSIVE HEIGHT - Maximum height 6'5" in bare feet. 19. PRESENCE of, in any part of body: inguinal, internal, large umbilical, ventral; or tendency toward hernia.
What happens if you fail a psychological evaluation? ›
Psychological tests are not pass/fail. The tests merely show you where you rank among others your same age (or grade). It is impossible to fail a psychological test! They also give you great insight into your strengths and weaknesses!
How do you beat NYPD oral psych? ›What are the best tips for doing well on a NYPD Oral Psychological Interview? Cooperate by arriving on time and being properly dressed. Show respect for the psychologist by addressing them as “Doctor”, not Chief, Boss, Pal or Buddy which will get you disqualified for showing disrespect during an interview.
What do MTA police officers do? ›The Metropolitan Transportation Authority Police Department is primarily responsible for patrolling and securing Grand Central Terminal, Penn Station, MTA yards and shops, and the more than 5,000-square-mile footprint of MTA railroads commuters travel on from Montauk to Poughkeepsie.
Can you fail a polygraph by being nervous? ›Will being nervous affect the outcome of my polygraph examination? Being nervous is not something to be concerned about as that in and of itself will not cause you to fail your polygraph examination.
Can you fail a polygraph when telling the truth? ›According to Goodson, some people who are telling the truth can fail polygraph tests by trying too hard to control their body's responses.
Will a polygraph examiner tell you if you failed? ›You will not be notified of your results on the spot, but they will be reviewed by another examiner and you will be contacted later with the results.
Do police write exams? ›Police written tests are not unlike college entrance exams such as an ACT or SAT. In general, police written exams cover reading comprehension, spelling, math, grammar, and analytical skills. The written test can also include a report writing test. Generally a passing score is 70% or better.
What can I expect from a police exam? ›Generally, police exams are designed to test a variety of basic skills in such areas as grammar, writing, vocabulary, reading comprehension and math. You may also be required to show your ability to make decisions based on your judgment and reasoning skills.
How can I check my police aptitude result? ›The Nigeria Police Force recruitment aptitude test results are out online for candidates who took part in the exams. To check your result, you need to log on to the NPF official website www.policerecruitment.gov.ng, sign in to your account and click the check result tab.
Are police exams hard? ›The training is very stringent. A demanding examination weeds out candidates that the examining officers don't believe are up to par. This tough but fair testing process favors the prepared. The police officer exam typically covers both physical strength and qualifications and mental acuity.
Do police academy pay their students? ›
Officers receive a full starting salary while training at a police academy. In most cases police academy is a six-month training period, including the NYPD and LAPD, in which you are trained in the law, how to use a weapon and how to conduct yourself as an officer of the law.
What are police trainees called? ›In police academy lingo, police in training are called recruits, while state troopers in training are called cadets.
Why do cops touch your trunk? ›By doing so, they ensure that the trunk is closed and that no one will jump out of it. But the action goes one step further: it is meant to ensure the officer's own safety. Touching the trunk in a defined area leaves their fingerprints on the car. If they were to be attacked, the vehicle could be linked with the crime.
What city pays cops the most? ›SAN FRANCISCO — With annual pay exceeding $300,000, San Francisco Police Chief Greg Suhr is the highest-paid cop in the nation, according to city payroll records.
Who is the highest-paid police department? ›- Baltimore Police Department. ...
- San Jose Police Department. ...
- Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. ...
- Metro Nashville Police Department. ...
- Aurora Police Department. ...
- Chicago Police Department. ...
- New Orleans Police Department. ...
- Dallas Police Department. Size: 1,001–5,000 employees.
...
1. Alaska.
It's our department's policy that a trooper must be wearing a hat when out of the building or making an arrest," Geller said. "But there's nothing in state code that he must be wearing his hat when issuing a citation.”
How long is NYS trooper Academy? ›Curriculum. Recruits must successfully complete 1,095 hours of training at the New York State Police Academy.
How much do NY State Troopers make? ›Average New York State Police State Trooper yearly pay in the United States is approximately $75,960, which is 30% above the national average.
Do you need a degree to be a New York State Trooper? ›Must not have reached their 30th birthday by the date of application, once applications become available. The maximum age may be extended one year for each year of full-time active military duty - up to a maximum of 7 years. Have a high school graduate or equivalency diploma, at time of application.
How many weeks is the New York State Police Academy? ›
The entry-level training entails 17 weeks of instruction at the Police Academy. Upon graduation, school safety agents are assigned to one of many New York City's public schools. Learn more about becoming an NYPD School Safety Agent.
How many NY State Troopers are there? ›The Uniform Force of the New York State Police is made up of more than 3,500 men and women. These sworn members are the Troopers you see responding to calls, patrolling roadways and helping the public wearing the iconic gray uniform and Stetson.
What state pays troopers the most? ›| Rank | State | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Alaska | $28.81 |
| 2 | North Dakota | $26.10 |
| 3 | Washington | $26.11 |
| 4 | Illinois | $25.32 |
It's unlikely for state troopers to work a standard 40-hour work week or traditional eight-hour shifts. It's more common to work over 40 hours per week in 12-hour or 24-hour shifts. For example, the New York State Police Recruitment Center notes that their troopers work 12-hour days.
What state pays police officers the most? ›The states and districts that pay Patrol Officers the highest mean salary are California ($107,440), New Jersey ($90,700), Alaska ($88,120), Washington ($82,740), and Hawaii ($81,460).
What disqualifies you from being a police officer? ›Felony convictions. Serious misdemeanors. Current drug use or past drug abuse. Dishonorable discharge from military service.
Are state troopers police? ›First and foremost, a state trooper is a law enforcement officer. Just like their counterparts in state and local police, state troopers are charged with enforcing laws and promoting public safety.
Do I need college to be a state trooper? ›State Trooper Requirements
Most states will require that an individual have at least an associate's degree before entering the police academy. The degree does not necessarily have to be in a specific field, but some states prefer that their officers have a background in criminal justice.
Training Day
The Academy will be your “home away from home” for the next several months (you do not live on Academy grounds). Your training day will typically begin at 0645 hours and end at approximately 1700 hours. You must remain on Academy grounds during training hours.
Generally speaking, police officers and those in training are required to shave. Individual department policies on facial hair grooming may vary. Yet in most cases, active-duty officers are restricted from growing full beards.
What does boot mean in police? ›
It has to do with the fact that the police, over the years, has become more and more militarized with its language and training, and so the police have adopted the military term for training new recruits, which is “boot camp,” with the individuals being trained being called “boots.”
Why do NY state troopers wear purple ties? ›The New York State Police wear hats with a purple band, representing their heritage from the Praetorian Guard.
What is the biggest police force in the world? ›China. China has the highest number of police officers in the world, standing at about 1.6 million officers in the country's police force.
What is the biggest police department in the US? ›The New York City Police Department (NYPD) is the largest and one of the oldest municipal police departments in the United States, with approximately 36,000 officers and 19,000 civilian employees.