Frequently Asked Questions

• Visit Public Safety Testing to schedule a testing date, time, and location for the written and physical fitness exams.
• Once you’ve completed your Public Safety Testing, you will need to create an account on the State of Washington’s job site and fill out an application.

Get to know our recruiters by visiting our recruiting page here. Contact the one you feel most comfortable with. We are all happy to help.

After completing the academy, new troopers are placed around the state based on trooper vacancies. The agency tries to get new troopers as close to home as possible, but sometimes, home assignments for everyone are not available. New troopers are able to put their name on transfer lists to locations they would prefer and will be called to fill those positions as they become open.

While in the academy you will be given an opportunity to choose your preferred assignment locations. The academy then tries their best to accommodate those choices. Sometimes it is not possible though, based on availability.  New troopers are able to put their name on transfer lists to locations they would prefer and will be called to fill those positions as they become open.

All that is needed is for the applicant to possess a high school diploma or GED.

No.

Minimum Requirements:

• • Be a United States Citizen or a Lawful Permanent Resident of the United States of America
  • Be 19.5 years old at time of application
  • Possess a current, non-probationary, and non-restricted valid driver’s license
  • Possess a current government issued ID card and or driver license
  • Possess a high school diploma from a state sanctioned and recognized school, GED, or associates or higher from an accredited college
  • Successfully pass a pre-employment polygraph examination
  • Successfully pass a thorough background investigation
  • Successfully pass a departmental medical examination
  • Successfully pass a departmental psychological examination
  • Be willing and able to work weekends, holidays, rotating shifts, and be on 24-hour call
  • Be free from the use of narcotics or controlled substances
  • Be willing to accept statewide assignments
  • Knowledge between right and wrong and demonstrate it by example and lifestyle
  • Maintain good personal hygiene
  • Pay one’s bills and meet financial obligations

Applicant must be of good moral character. Indications of a lack of good moral character include, but are not limited to the following:

• • Conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation
  • Intentional deception or fraud or attempted deception or fraud in any application, examination, or other document
  • Acts or conduct that would cause a reasonable person to have substantial doubts about the individual’s honesty, fairness, respect for the rights of others, or for the laws of the state and/or the nation
  • Conduct that adversely reflects on the individual’s character to perform the duties of a trooper

Drug Standards

• • Drug possession/usage beyond these standards disqualifies you from employment with the WSP.

“Possession” is defined as having actual physical control of any illegal (non-prescribed) drug for personal use with the intent to commit a crime.

“Use” is defined as trying, testing, or experimenting, which includes, but is not limited to, tasting, smoking, injecting, absorbing, sniffing, or inhaling.

• • No use or possession of any non-prescribed Schedule 1-5 drugs (except for Marijuana/Hashish) over five (5) times combined.  This standard applies to synthetic versions of Schedule 1-5 drugs.
  • No use or possession of any non-prescribed Schedule 1-5 drugs (except for Marijuana/Hashish) in the last three (3) years.  This standard applies to synthetic versions of Schedule 1-5 drugs.
  • No use or possession of Marijuana/Hashish within the last one (1) year, regardless of age.
  • No use or possession of Opiates or Heroin, regardless of time frame.
  • No injection of any non-prescribed illegal drugs, regardless of time frame.
  • Use of non-prescribed medication for medical-related purposes may be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Human Resource Division (HRD) Commander.
  • No trafficking, selling, offering to sell, or transporting for sale of any illegal drugs, regardless of time frame.
  • No drug use or possession of any non-prescribed Schedule 1-5 drugs (except for Marijuana/Hashish) after submitting any law enforcement application.
  • No drug use or illegal possession of any non-prescribed Schedule 1-5 drugs while employed by a law enforcement agency (including military law enforcement).
  • No intentional inhalation (huffed) of any aerosol or substance (nitrous oxide, whippets, paint, glue, DXM, etc.) in the last three (3) years.

Examples of Schedule I-V Drugs include, but are not limited to:

Schedule I (RCW 69.50.204)– Examples could include: Codeine, Heroin, Morphine, Ecstasy, LSD, Peyote, GHB, Methaqualone, Marijuana/Cannabis, etc.

Schedule II (RCW 69.50.206) – Examples could include: Opium, Cocaine, Codeine, Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, Methadone, Methamphetamine, Amphetamine, Depressants, Hallucinogenic Substances, etc.

Schedule III (RCW 69.50.208) – Examples could include: Stimulants, Depressants, Hallucinogens, Ketamine, Anabolic Steroids, Hallucinogenic substances, etc.

Schedule IV (RCW 69.50.210) – Examples could include: Barbital, Diazepam, Fludiazepam, Halazepam, Lorazepam, Phenobarbital, etc.

Schedule V (RCW 69.50.212) – Examples could include: Stimulants, Depressants, Lacosamid, Pregabalin, etc. 

Criminal History

• • Any conduct deemed to impede the ability of the WSP to effectively fulfill its responsibilities; causes a lessening of public confidence in the ability of the WSP to perform its mission; or does not equate with the high ethical standards expected by the public of law enforcement agencies will result in disqualification.
  • Have no felony convictions.
  • Have no misdemeanor convictions involving DUI, use or possession of firearms in the commission of a crime, crimes of violence (i.e., domestic violence, assault, sex crimes, etc.), or controlled substances.
  • No DUI regardless of time frame. This includes reduced charges related to DUI convictions.
  • Other than those identified above, misdemeanor convictions over the age of 21 may be considered on a case-by-case basis, provided they did not occur within the last three (3) years.  Final approval will be determined by the HRD Commander.
  • Misdemeanor convictions under the age of 21 may be considered on a case-by-case basis provided they did not occur within the last three (3) years.  Final approval will be determined by the HRD Commander.
  • No more than two (2) convictions of major moving violations (Reckless Driving, Negligent Driving 2nd Degree, etc.), within the last ten years.
  • Applicant must possess a current, non-probationary, and non-restricted valid driver’s license.  History of restrictions on license or driving record due to vehicle operation or control will be considered on a case-by-case basis.  Upon hire, must possess a Washington State driver’s license and maintain such licensure during employment with the WSP.

For this purpose, the term “conviction” shall include any disposition adverse to the subject, except a decision not to prosecute, a dismissal, or acquittal; provided, however, that a dismissal entered after a period of probation, suspension, or deferral of prosecution or sentence shall be considered a disposition adverse to the subject.

Any applicant with a history or conviction of domestic violence shall be eliminated as an employee candidate at that point in the hiring process per RCW 10.99 and the WSP Regulation Manual, Chapter 8.00.320.  RCW Mandate – Will apply to all fully commissioned trooper applicants and CVEO applicants.

The WSP does not accept applicants who have had a DUI regardless of time frame. This includes reduced charges related to DUI convictions.

WSP currently does not have a tattoo policy, but offensive tattoos will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Ride-a-longs are only approved for candidates currently in our hiring process. Contact one of our recruiters and they will be happy to help you get a ride-a-long scheduled.

Public Safety Testing (PST) offers study materials designed by the test developer for the written examinations. You can look into this further by clicking the following link: https://www.publicsafetytesting.com/.

70% is a passing written score for WSP.

• Trooper Cadet Applicants must successfully pass a Physical Ability Test (PAT) which includes: 20 push-ups in 90 seconds, 25 Sit-ups in 90 seconds, and 35 squat thrusters in 3 minutes.
• Please visit Public Safety Testing’s (PST) web page here: https://www.publicsafetytesting.com/ to get further information and review testing videos.

Test scores through from PST are good for 1 year.

As a commissioned Trooper, you have to reside within the state of Washington.

• City Officers generally only have jurisdiction with the city limits.
• County Deputies have jurisdiction within the county limits.
• State Troopers have jurisdiction throughout the state they’re in.

On average, it takes 8 weeks to complete the hiring process.

The WSP has four phases to our hiring process:

Phase 1 – Physical fitness test and written test (conducted by Public Safety Testing)
Phase 2 – Polygraph
Phase 3 – Background Investigation, Oral Interview
Phase 4 – Psychological Test, Psychological Interview w/ Psychologist, Medical

On average it takes 8 weeks for the hiring process, 26 weeks of the Trooper Basic Training Class training, and 10 weeks of field training.

Yes! Trooper Cadets receive their salary starting the first day of work and through the entire training process. In addition, the academy, uniforms, and equipment are paid for by the agency. Click the link here to see the most current salary rates.

Trooper Cadet Training:

• Trooper Cadet training is in two phases. The first phase being a (whatever amount of weeks) for Trooper Basic Training Class training, then upon completion and passing of the academy, a 10-week Field Training assignment. During this time, the Trooper Cadet is conducting law enforcement activities under the guidance of a field training officer who is providing feedback and evaluating their performance.
• Trooper Cadets are also taught a variety of defensive tactics at the Academy, such as personal weapons, OC-10, ASP baton, and Taser training. This training ensures officers understand their own capabilities, the functionality of the belt weapons they carry, and the limitations associated with their use. In addition, officers are taught how to utilize de-escalation skills and use the least amount of force to gain compliance. If compliance is not gained officers are trained to utilize an appropriate level of force for the situation.
• After every Trooper Basic Training Class, the Academy hosts an open house and awards ceremony for the cadets and their families.  The following day is the formal graduation ceremony, which is held in the rotunda of the Washington State Capitol building in Olympia.

For more information please visit our YouTube channel and watch the following videos:

WSP Government & Media Relations You Tube Channel – Good to Know WSP Academy

WSP Government & Media Relations YouTube Channel – Good to Know WSP Mega Practical’s

WSP Trooper Graduation videos – 111th Trooper Basic Graduation

Trooper Cadets are required to stay on campus during the first three weeks, and are able to go home at the end of their work day once the fourth week starts.  Trooper Cadets are free to go home on the weekends and for holidays.

Please do not apply until you are within six (6) months of your ETS date.

As a Reservist/Guard member you will receive an additional 120 hours of leave for military leave purposes. This is separate from you vacation leave.

New troopers are placed around the state based on vacancies. Some troopers will be placed in areas that include I-5 and some will not.

Please click the link here to see more information about specialty positions.

Everyone starts out as a trooper first. As you continue on your career you will have the opportunity to train and apply for specialty positions.

Upon graduation from the academy you’re allowed place your name on up to four transfer lists state wide. These transfer lists are first come/first served. Your name is placed on the list according to date/time you add your name.  When vacancies occur in the desired area, troopers are called to fill it based on who has been on the list the longest.

Yes!

Beards are not within our standards. Mustaches are acceptable.

Visit careers.wa.gov to fill out an application.

Yes! Out of state applicants who have successfully completed a Basic Law Enforcement Academy and probationary period are encouraged to apply.

A lateral officer is an applicant who has successfully completed a Basic Law Enforcement Academy (BLEEA) and is a fully commissioned peace officer. This does not include any military or reserve training program or any federal training program not otherwise approved by the Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC). Click here for more information.

Please note that the Washington State Patrol uses and teaches CJTC’s curriculum at our academy. Lateral trooper applicants are not required to go to CJTC’s facility to complete the equivalency academy.

The following are not certified positions, and any certified officer who is hired into one of these positions begins the clock to have their certification lapse/expire:

• • Reserve and/or part-time officer
  • Special commission
  • Limited authority officers that do not meet the definition of a certified limited authority officer
  • Railroad police officers

At a minimum, lateral hires must have successfully completed a basic law enforcement academy and probationary period to be considered for the lateral position. Those who have not must apply as a trooper cadet. If you are unsure, reach out to a recruiter for more information.

Lateral officer salaries will be based upon years of service as a certified peace officer consistent with the bargained wages for a trooper as defined by the Washington State Patrol Troopers Association (WSPTA) Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

Multiple locations throughout the state have geographical pay. See the WSPTA CBA for more information.

Lateral hires must have successfully completed the Basic Law Enforcement Academy and probationary period.

Click here to see a list of automatic disqualifiers.

No.

WSP currently does not have a tattoo policy, but offensive tattoos will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Get to know our recruiters here. Contact the one you feel most comfortable with – we are all happy to help.

It depends on the applicant’s reference availability, completion of paperwork, and availability for examinations; the average is 60 days from application to eligibility for hire.  All applicants will be hired in late February 2024 in preparation for the start of the March 2024 lateral training class.

New troopers are placed around the state based on agency vacancies. For lateral hires, all WSP geographic locations are open.

All geographic locations are open for lateral hires, so you can work in any of our eight districts.

Yes, moving costs are covered up to a certain level. More information can be found in the WSPTA CBA.

The WSP does not accept applicants who have had a DUI, regardless of time frame. This includes reduced charges related to DUI convictions.

Troopers are represented by the Washington State Patrol Trooper’s Association.

Yes, the WSP has statewide jurisdiction, and troopers can work in any location where the WSP has a detachment.

As a commissioned trooper, you must reside within the state of Washington.

For information regarding retirement and/or possible dual membership, click here.

Yes. Upon graduation, lateral officers will be able to apply for off-duty employment.

No, vacation and sick leave only transfers over for current Washington state employees.

Please click the link here to see more information about specialty positions.

Based on the needs of the agency, some specialties such as collision tech and drug recognition expert may be able to transfer with you into the agency. This will determined on a case-by-case basis.

Everyone starts out working the road, honing the skills it takes to be a trooper. As you continue on your career and gain experience, you will have the opportunity to train and apply for specialty positions.

Some specialty positions are accompanied by specialty pay. The amount is determined through the collective bargaining agreement and is specific to each specialty.

Yes! Lateral hires will receive their salary starting the first day of work and through the entire training process. In addition, the academy, uniforms, and equipment are paid for by the agency. Click the link here to see the most current salary rates

The duration of the lateral academy is tailored around experience level. Once hired, laterals will complete a minimum of four weeks of training at the academy, followed by a four-week coaching trip with a field training officer. Out-of-state hires will complete an additional two-week equivalency course focused on Washington State laws. Depending on a hire’s experience and credentials, the academy training could be extended to ensure all necessary credentials are completed.

The lateral academy experience is condensed and focused on helping our new hires understand the culture of our agency, as well as ensuring all credentials are met before you work the road. Already being peace officers allows us to focus more on the specifics of a trooper’s daily duties.

Lateral transfers will complete a paid five-week non-militaristic, classroom, and hands-on learning WSP trooper equivalency course followed by a four-week field training course with a senior WSP commissioned officer.

Out-of-state peace officers must complete an additional two-week Washington state equivalency course provided by the WSP to obtain a Washington state peace officer certification.

During the training, lateral hires will have the option to travel home at the end of each day or stay at the academy with no cost to them.

Lateral hires will complete four weeks of training at the WSP academy in Shelton, WA. During this time it will be open campus, and you will have the option to travel home at the end of each day or stay at the academy.

Yes, all of the necessary gear to serve as a WSP trooper is provided to you, to include your firearms, uniform, patrol vehicle, and other equipment needs.

Yes, WSP troopers are issued take-home cars

As a Reservist/Guard member you will receive an additional 120 hours of leave for military leave purposes. This is separate from your vacation leave.

Promotions will be governed by RCW 43.43.350, which requires one year of probation and three years of service as a WSP trooper.

Upon graduation from the academy, you’re allowed to place your name on up to four transfer lists state wide. These transfer lists are first come/first served. Your name is placed on the list according to the date/time you add your name. When vacancies occur in the desired area, troopers are called to fill them based on who has been on the list the longest.

All WSP geographic locations are open, so lateral hires can work in urban environments along major interstates, such as Seattle, Tacoma, and Marysville, or more rural beats with primarily state routes throughout the state.