Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that the New York State Police are now accepting applications for the Trooper Entrance Examination, and testing for candidates will start on August 15. This recruitment period stems from a $66 million investment by Governor Hochul to fund additional State Police academy classes to increase the number of New York State Troopers dedicated to addressing the State’s most pressing crime issues, including the trafficking of illegal firearms.
“Public safety is my top priority, and we will continue to make record investments in law enforcement so that New York State is best prepared to protect New Yorkers,” Hochul said. “By investing $66 million in additional academy classes, we hope to increase the number of potential New York State Troopers serving our great state. I encourage those interested in a rewarding career to apply now.”
Candidates can learn about the qualifications to become a New York State Trooper and sign up to take the exam at www.joinstatepolice.ny.gov. Once candidates apply, they can sign up to take the computerized exam at a Pearson VUE testing center at a location and time that is convenient for them. The starting salary for Academy appointees is $59,612; after one year of service, the minimum compensation rises to $98,300. Positions include full health benefits and a retirement plan.
A career with the New York State Police offers significant opportunities for advancement and professional development, with specialized units such as Aviation, Canine, Underwater Recovery Team, Special Operations Response Team and Bureau of Criminal Investigation, just to name a few.
Candidates must be a U.S. citizen; at least 20 years old and a maximum of 34 years old at the time of application (the maximum age may be extended one year for each year of full-time active military duty – up to a maximum of 7 years); and a high school diploma or equivalent is required to apply (60 college credits are required at time of appointment, 30 for those who have qualifying military service or police training). For complete information, including details of the revised tattoo policy, go to: https://joinstatepolice.ny.gov/qualifications.
There is a $20 fee at the time of application, and a $44 fee payable to Pearson VUE when scheduling the exam.