The Missouri State Highway Patrol - Troop C is currently accepting applications for the January Traditional Trooper Academy.
As a Missouri State Trooper, you will serve and protect communities across Missouri by enforcing traffic laws, responding to emergencies, assisting motorists, and supporting criminal investigations. This is a rewarding career opportunity for individuals who value service, leadership, integrity, and teamwork.
Troopers receive comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage, generous paid leave, take-home patrol vehicle privileges, and opportunities for salary growth throughout their career. MSHP provides a rewarding career path for individuals committed to leadership, public service, and protecting Missouri communities.
Job Responsibilities
Troopers are responsible for:
- Enforcing Missouri traffic and criminal laws
- Investigating highway traffic crashes
- Assisting stranded motorists
- Responding to roadway emergencies
- Supporting local law enforcement agencies
- Conducting criminal investigations
- Working in all weather and environmental conditions
- Operating patrol vehicles, including emergency response driving
- Maintaining flexible and changing schedules
Career Opportunities
After 2–3 years of service, troopers may apply for specialized assignments as openings become available, including:
- Aircraft Unit
- Criminal Investigations / Narcotics (DDCC)
- K-9 Unit
- Motorcycle Unit
- SWAT
- Additional specialty units
Take-Home Patrol Vehicle
Troopers are authorized to drive their patrol vehicle to and from their residence, providing increased community visibility and faster emergency response capabilities.
Minimum Qualifications
Applicants must:
- Be at least 21 years old upon graduation from the Academy
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be a Missouri resident when recruit training begins
- Possess a high school diploma or GED
- Hold a valid Missouri driver’s license at the time of appointment
- Be willing to live anywhere in the State of Missouri
- Successfully complete all phases of the Trooper Selection Process
Background Requirements
Applicants must:
- Have no felony convictions
- Have no crimes involving moral turpitude
- Have no pending indictments
- Have no disqualifying misdemeanor offenses involving:
- Domestic violence
- Assault
- Aggressive or violent behavior
- Misuse of deadly weapons
- Disregard for the safety of others
Tattoo Policy
No tattoos or brands are permitted on the:
- Head
- Neck
- Hands
- Wrists
- Any area visible while wearing the official uniform
Applicants with visible tattoos must be willing to wear the required Class A uniform to ensure tattoos remain covered while on duty.
Pay & BenefitsSalary
Trooper recruit’s starting pay is at $66,432 and increases to $73,824 upon graduation.
Benefits Include
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Life insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Paid holidays
Paid Leave
- 15–21 vacation days annually (based on years of service)
- 15 sick days annually
- 13 paid holidays annually
- Sick leave accumulation available toward retirement service credit
Education Benefits
Upon graduation from the Academy, troopers may earn college credit through partner institutions:
- 46 credit hours through Mineral Area College
- 30 credit hours through the University of Central Missouri
- 57 credit hours through Missouri State University
Eligible recruits may also pursue an Associate of Applied Science degree through additional online coursework.
Military Experience Encouraged
Military veterans are strongly encouraged to apply. Experience in leadership, discipline, teamwork, and operating under pressure translates well to a career with the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Pay: $66,432.00 - $73,824.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Will you be a citizen of the United States and a resident of Missouri by the time recruit training for this position begins?
- Will you be at least 21 years of age upon graduation from the Academy?
Work Location: In person
