Washington State Patrol troopers have a desire to serve and make a difference in their communities every day. Troopers patrolling the highways are the most visible part of the agency and provide the best in public safety services to the people of Washington. Learn about Life As A Trooper!
Position Purpose:
Washington State Patrol Troopers uphold the Constitution of the United States, Washington State constitution, laws, and statutes for the protection of all people.
Scope and Nature:
Operates independently with minimal supervision to deliver comprehensive police and public safety services throughout Washington State. Enforces criminal and traffic laws within assigned areas and supports prosecutions through arrests, investigations, and court proceedings. Facilitates traffic flow, responds to collisions, and conducts related investigations. Provides assistance to motorists, crime victims, and the general public. Engages with governmental bodies and contributes to committees or projects focused on public safety and crime prevention. Participates in specialized assignments and other duties as required.
Task:- Conduct patrols and respond to service calls, ensuring 24/7 coverage in assigned areas.
- Enforce traffic and criminal laws through observation, identification, and appropriate legal actions.
- Utilize speed-measuring devices and assess behaviors for signs of impairment or deception.
- Perform safe and high-risk traffic stops, issue warnings or citations, and make arrests when necessary.
- Operate a patrol vehicle effectively in both routine and emergency situations while multitasking.
- Execute high-risk vehicle maneuvers, including PIT techniques, roadblocks, and spike strip deployments.
- Pursue suspects in vehicles or on foot when necessary.
- Conduct searches of suspects and vehicles for weapons, contraband, and crime-related evidence.
- Communicate with individuals in various emotional states, including intoxicated or distressed persons.
- Administer and evaluate sobriety tests for alcohol and drug impairment.
- Detain and arrest individuals using appropriate restraints and procedures.
- Provide traffic control, clear roadways of hazards, and assist stranded or injured motorists.
- Inspect and maintain issued equipment to ensure operational readiness.
- Participate in emergency response, including critical incidents and civil disorder situations.
- Collect and document evidence at crime scenes and accident locations following procedural guidelines.
- Conduct investigations into collisions, misdemeanors, felonies, and suspected criminal activity.
- Maintain knowledge of relevant laws, case precedents, and legal procedures.
- Obtain and execute arrest warrants, interview witnesses and suspects, and prepare reports.
- Testify in court regarding arrests, investigations, and infractions.
- Provide emergency first aid and notify next of kin in cases of fatalities.
The full position description of a Washington State Trooper can be found here.Hiring Process
The Washington State Patrol (WSP) follows a structured five-phase hiring process:
- Application Review – Initial assessment of qualifications.
- Command Interview– Formal interview with WSP leadership.
- Polygraph Examination– Final verification of candidate integrity.
- Psychological & Medical Evaluation – Includes a psychological test, interview with a psychologist, and medical exam.
- Background Investigation – Thorough review of personal and professional history.
Minimum Requirements
Candidates must meet the following qualifications:
- Completion of a Basic Law Enforcement Academy and required probationary period at a current/former law enforcement agency.
- Eligibility to obtain and maintain a Washington State Driver’s License.
- Possession of a high school diploma, GED, or state-recognized home school certificate.
- Successful completion of all hiring phases listed above.
- Willingness to work weekends, holidays, rotating shifts, and be on 24-hour call as needed.
- Compliance with narcotics and controlled substance restrictions, as outlined in WSP Hiring Standards.
Professional Integrity & Character Standards
Applicants must demonstrate good moral character—any history of dishonesty, fraud, misrepresentation, or conduct that undermines trust or lawfulness may result in disqualification. A history of domestic violence automatically eliminates candidates per RCW 10.99.
Essential Job Competencies
To succeed in this role, candidates must be able to:
- Administer basic first aid in emergency situations.
- Use force appropriately, including firearms, when necessary.
- Communicate effectively via radio equipment and during critical incidents.
- Operate a patrol vehicle independently in routine and emergency situations.
- Know when and how to deploy emergency lights and sirens.
- Properly handle all issued equipment and demonstrate its effective use.
- Provide credible courtroom testimony as required.
Training Program
- Lateral Transfers: Complete a five-week trooper equivalency course followed by a four-week field training program with a senior WSP officer for a total of 9 weeks.
- Out-of-State Peace Officers: Must complete a two-week Washington State equivalency course to obtain certification. This equivalency course will take place prior to the start of the five-week trooper equivalency course for a total of 11 weeks.
For a detailed list of duties and responsibilities, refer to the Washington State Trooper job description here.Hiring Incentive:
Lateral Troopers are eligible for a $20,000 hiring bonus. $8,000 upon completion of academy training, $6,000 upon successful completion of probationary period, $6,000 after completion of two (2) years of service.
Compensation:
Lateral Troopers will receive a monthly salary which will be determined by seniority as a fully commissioned peace officer. Seniority determinations will be consistent with Article 8 of the Washington State Patrol Troopers Association (WSPTA) Collective Bargaining Agreement.Commissioned
Time
Monthly Base Pay
As of July 1, 2024
2 years
$7,308
2.5 - 3.5 years
$7,745
3.5 - 4.5 years
$8,210
4.5 - 5 years
$8,705
5 - 10 years
$8,967
10 - 15 years
$9,144
15 - 20 years
$9,330
20 - 25 years
$9,515
25+ years
$9,611
Additional Compensation Incentives:- Shift Differential Pay, Education Incentive Pay, Geographic Pay, and Specialty Pay, as well as Paid Leave Time and Benefits. Read more here.
- Qualification for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Read more here.
- Tuition Reimbursement.
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How to Apply:
To be considered you must apply online at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above). You must complete the entire application in order to be considered.
Out of state applicants must be prepared to submit their Peace Officer Certification documents and Academy Syllabus to include the topic and hours of each course.
Veterans’ Preference:
Applicants wishing to claim veterans’ preference MUST attach a copy of their DD-214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22, or signed verification of service letter from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to their application. Please blackout any personally identifiable data such as social security numbers. Veterans’ preference will not be applied unless the required documentation is attached to your application.
For additional information on veterans’ preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible, click here.
We thank you and are grateful for your service.