How to Become A Highway Patrol Officer
Highway patrol officers are responsible for looking after the safety of people traveling on roads and highways. They are part of the police force and have to be on the move regularly.
Should I Become a Highway Patrol Officer in the US?
If you want to join the police force, then working as a highway patrol officer is a good option. Read the following article for more information
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Education
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A high school diploma or GED. An Associate's or a Bachelor's Degree can open up more opportunities.
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Major Requirement
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Law enforcement or a related field.
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License/Certification
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N/A
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Experience/Training
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Training at a police academy.
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Key Skills
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Patience, Strong nerves, Physical fitness, etc.
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Annual Mean Salary – National
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$67,600 (Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers)
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Job Outlook (2019 – 2029)
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6% (Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers)
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Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Job Outlook
The job outlook for Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers is quite positive for the next ten years (2019 and 2029). They are expected to experience a 6% growth in employment opportunities during this period.
Steps to Become a Highway Patrol Officer in the US
You have to complete the following steps to become a highway patrol officer in the US:
Complete High School Education
You will have to get a high school diploma or a GED as the minimum education to apply to join the police force in the US.
Complete College
Some states in the US might require you to have some sort of college or post-secondary education. It is advisable to get an associate's or a bachelor's degree in fields like law enforcement or criminal justice, etc.
Apply for the job
Once you have completed the educational requirements, start looking for jobs. To get a job as a trooper, you will have to clear physical fitness and vision tests You will also have to clear background and drug screening.
Complete Training
Once you are hired as a police officer, you will have to attend a training program that can take over a year to complete. This training will take place at a state-specified training facility and during this phase, you will learn about local ordinances, constitutional law, accidental investigation methods, etc. You will also be taught how to use firearms and how to respond in emergencies.
Duration to Become a Highway Patrol Officer in the US
It can take you anywhere between 2-6 years to become a highway patrol officer depending on your education, training, and how quickly you clear the hiring process.
What Are the Requirements to Become a Highway Patrol Officer in the US?
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Meet the minimum age requirement (21 years in most states).
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Should have a valid driver's license.
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Should have no criminal record.
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Should have a clean driving history.
How Much Can I Earn as a Highway Patrol Officer in the US?
The mean annual income of Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers in 2019 was $67,600.