Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) opened a new selection cycle for women and men considering a rewarding career as a state trooper.
Since Governor Josh Shapiro took office, violent crime has gone down 16%, and homicides have decreased by 39%. He built on this progress by signing the 2026-27 state budget, which invests $16.2 million to support four additional cadet classes for the PSP, approximately 380 Troopers, delivering in full on his core promise to put 2,000 more law enforcement officers and Troopers on the beat in our communities.
To date, the Governor has secured funding for 16 cadet classes to train over 1,600 new State Troopers and obtained funding through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) to help municipal police departments recruit and retain nearly 700 municipal police officers across the Commonwealth.
Under Governor Shapiro’s leadership, approximately 673 cadets have graduated and joined the ranks of the PSP. Six cadet classes have now completed training at the PSP Academy without a college credit requirement for the position of Trooper. The Shapiro Administration eliminated the college requirement for applicants in August of 2023. The PSP saw a 69% increase in applicants in 2025 compared to 2022, when the college credit requirement was still in place.
Every single day across the Commonwealth, the men and women of the Pennsylvania State Police answer the call to serve, protect, and make a meaningful difference in the communities we serve,” said Lieutenant Colonel George Bivens, Acting Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police. “A career with the Pennsylvania State Police offers purpose, challenge, and the opportunity to grow while making a lasting impact on the lives of others. If you are ready to be part of something larger than yourself and join a team united by a commitment to service and excellence, we encourage you to apply and start your journey with the Pennsylvania State Police.”
Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED certificate and a valid driver’s license from any state. They must be at least 20 years old at the time of application, and they must be at least 21 years old and cannot have reached age 40 upon entry into the PSP Academy.
Cadet training lasts approximately 28 weeks and includes formal coursework in Pennsylvania’s crimes and vehicle codes, physical fitness activities, and training in police vehicles, firearms, and specialized equipment.
Upon completion of the PSP Academy, cadets are promoted to the rank of Trooper and, after five years of service, can earn approximately $103,319.
Applications for the current cadet hiring cycle should be submitted via the Commonwealth’s employment website by November 27, 2026.
Whether you’re beginning your career, transitioning from the military, changing professions, or looking for an opportunity to serve your community in a meaningful way, the PSP offers a path where your work makes a difference every day.
Those interested in becoming a State Trooper can find application requirements, job benefits, and other details at PATrooper.com.