Join the Montana Highway Patrol – Make a Difference Every Day
Are you ready to serve and protect with integrity, courage, and commitment? The Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) is now accepting applications for both Entry-Level and Lateral-Level Trooper positions. This is your chance to be part of a proud tradition of excellence and leadership in law enforcement.
Start Your Journey
Initial Screening: Begins July 21, 2025
Successful applicants will move forward to the National Police Officer Selection Testing, conducted virtually between July 28 – August 1, 2025.
From there, qualified candidates will progress through a structured and supportive selection process, including:
- One-on-one interviews
- Job suitability assessments
- Background investigations
- Conditional offer testing
- Required paperwork and documentation
Academy and Training
Entry-Level Troopers
- Start Date: January 5, 2026
- Basic Academy (MLEA) in Helena starts January 26, 2026
- MHP Advanced Academy in Boulder on April 22, 2026
Lateral-Level Troopers
- Start Date: April 13, 2026
- Begin directly at the MHP Advanced Academy
- Out-of-state candidates will also complete LEQ and SFST training (dates TBD)
- Compensation is provided for all training
We’ve got you covered – During both academies, you’ll receive:
- Full uniforms and equipment
- Housing and meals (excluding days off)
- Compensation at $25.58/hour
- Full State of Montana employee benefits
Your Career, Your Future
Upon successful graduation from the MHP Advanced Academy, you’ll be sworn in as a Montana State Trooper - Starting Pay: $30.98/hour
After 1 year probation: $32.30/hour
Career advancement through a structured pay ladder based on longevity and performance.
Veterans Welcome
MHP proudly participates in the VA Education Benefits Program. Eligible veterans may receive education benefits throughout the probationary period.
Qualifications
To apply, you must:
- Be 18 years or older
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Hold a valid driver’s license
- Lateral candidates: Must possess a current Basic Law Enforcement POST Certificate (from Montana or another state) earned within the last 5 years
Selection Requirements
Applicants must successfully complete:
- Criminal history and fingerprint checks
- Extensive background investigation
- Driving history review
- Drug screening
- Psychological and physical evaluations
- Montana Physical Abilities Test (MPAT)
Apply Today – Answer the Call
This is more than a job. It’s a calling. It's your opportunity to serve with honor and make a lasting impact on the people of Montana. Whether you're just starting out or bringing valuable experience, the Montana Highway Patrol wants you on our team.
Primary Locations: Superior, Billings, Columbus, Joliet, Forsyth, Glendive, Culbertson, Glasgow, Sidney, Bozeman, Livingston, Big Timber.
Closing Date (based on your computer's time zone): July 20, 2025, 11:59:00 PM