The Missouri State Highway Patrol is encouraging qualified individuals of all backgrounds to apply for the 126th Recruit Class. The 126th Recruit Class is scheduled to begin training on April 20, 2026.

To be eligible, candidates must possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent and be 21 years of age upon graduating from the Patrol’s Law Enforcement Academy. Upon graduating from the Patrol’s Academy, troopers are eligible to earn credit hours toward a degree through Mineral Area College in Park Hills, University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, or, Missouri State University in Springfield.

The starting annual salary when entering the Academy is $66,432. Upon graduation, the salary increases to $73,825. After three years of service, the trooper first class’s salary increases to $77,568. Additional salary increases for trooper first class reach a maximum annual salary of $98,448 after 12 years of service. Other benefits include group health insurance, contributory retirement, career advancement, and more.

The selection process is a multi-phase testing procedure including a written examination, a physical fitness for duty assessment, polygraph examination, background investigation, and oral interview board. After a conditional offer of employment, the applicant must successfully complete a medical examination (to include vision and hearing), psychological examination, a psychological interview, drug screening, and final applicant review.

Successful applicants will be notified of their duty assignment prior to the start of the academy.