The information herein is provided by the respective agency and is only as accurate and as up-to-date as the agency representative(s) update this information. PST is not responsible for the veracity of this data as it is provided directly from the agency. It is ultimately the applicant's responsibility to verify any information about the agency with the agency.
Washington State Patrol - Trooper
Last updated on October 02, 2026
PST Partner Agency since July 16, 2015
Vacancies: 108
Important Information
NOW HIRING WSP
TROOPERS
$10,000 ENTRY-LEVEL
TROOPER CADET HIRING BONUS
$20,000 LATERAL
TROOPER HIRING BONUS
Ready to begin your
career with the Washington State Patrol? Complete these important steps to keep
your application moving:
COMPLETE YOUR PERSONAL
HISTORY STATEMENT (PHS) - Submit your PHS
through your Public Safety Testing account within 14 days of completing your
written exam to avoid delays in the hiring process.
Complete both steps
promptly to keep your application moving forward.
Community Information
Serving Washington Since 1921
For more than a
century, the Washington State Patrol has served the people and communities of
Washington.
WSP’s story began
in 1921, when the Washington State Legislature authorized the creation of a
highway police force. The agency’s first patrol officers took to Washington’s
roads on Indian motorcycles, beginning a tradition of public service that
continues today.
As Washington grew,
so did the Patrol. In 1933, the Washington State Highway Patrol became the Washington
State Patrol and was granted full police powers, expanding its role beyond
traffic enforcement to meet the evolving public safety needs of communities
across the state.
Today, WSP is a
statewide public safety agency with employees serving throughout Washington.
From busy interstate corridors and growing metropolitan areas to rural
highways, mountain passes, and small communities, WSP employees have the
opportunity to serve in an extraordinary variety of environments.
More Than 100 Years of Service
Throughout its
history, WSP has continued to evolve alongside the communities it serves.
Significant milestones include:
1921 – Washington established its
first statewide highway police force, with early patrol officers serving
on Indian motorcycles.
1925 – William Cole was appointed
the first Chief of the Washington State Highway Patrol.
1933 – The agency became the
Washington State Patrol and received full police powers.
1937 – WSP established its first
cadet class and Criminal Investigation Bureau.
1967 – Leon Lasley became the first
African American officer hired by WSP and graduated from the State Patrol
Academy.
1975 – Cathy Swanson became WSP’s
first female trooper.
1988 – WSP became one of the first
state law enforcement agencies in the nation to earn accreditation through
the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).
1995 – Annette Sandberg became the
first woman appointed to lead WSP and the first woman to head a state law
enforcement agency in the nation. The State Fire Marshal’s Office also
became part of WSP.
2021 – WSP celebrated 100 years of
service to Washington.
One State. Countless Communities.
A career with WSP
provides the opportunity to serve people from every walk of life and experience
the geographic and cultural diversity that makes Washington unique.
Troopers may work
along the I-5 corridor, patrol mountain passes, serve rural communities in
Eastern Washington, support major events at the State Capitol, investigate
serious collisions, assist motorists during severe weather, or work alongside
local, tribal, state, and federal partners.
Wherever you serve,
the mission remains the same: making a difference every day through Service
With Humility.
Department Information
Washington State Patrol
Make a Difference. Build a Career. Serve Washington.
The Washington
State Patrol (WSP) is a full-service public safety agency serving people and
communities across Washington State. Our troopers are highly visible on
Washington’s highways, but a career with WSP goes far beyond traffic
enforcement.
WSP troopers
respond to emergencies, investigate collisions and criminal activity, assist
motorists and victims of crime, enforce traffic and criminal laws, and work
alongside local, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement partners. Every day
brings an opportunity to serve, solve problems, protect communities, and make a
meaningful difference.
Becoming a trooper
is just the beginning. WSP offers opportunities to develop specialized skills,
take on new challenges, and build a long-term career in public safety.
Endless Career Opportunities
As you gain
experience, opportunities may include:
Specialized
Enforcement & Operations
Aviation
Canine (K9)
Motorcycle Patrol
SWAT
Bomb Squad
Bicycle Patrol
Executive Protection
Capitol Security
Investigations
Detective and Investigative Assignments
Narcotics
High Tech Crime
Organized Crime
Human Trafficking
Missing and Exploited Children
Internal Affairs
Traffic Safety
& Collision Investigation
Collision Reconstruction
Technical Collision Investigation
Drug Recognition Expert
Commercial Vehicle Enforcement
Training &
Leadership
Field Training Officer
Academy Instructor
Corporal
Sergeant
Lieutenant
Captain
Whether your
interests are patrol, investigations, specialty assignments, training, or
leadership, WSP provides opportunities to continue learning and growing
throughout your career.
Our Mission: The Washington
State Patrol makes a difference every day, enhancing the safety and security of
all people and communities by providing the best in public safety services.
Our Vision: To be the best
public safety agency in the United States.
Our Motto: Service With
Humility
Our Values:
WSP employees are
committed to earning trust and confidence through:
Leadership
Effective partnerships and community relationships
Professional excellence
Integrity and accountability
Respecting and protecting the rights of all
Fostering a culture of continuous improvement,
involvement, and engagement
Find Your Roadway to the Future
A career as a
Washington State Patrol trooper offers more than a badge. It offers the
opportunity to serve communities across Washington, develop professionally,
pursue specialized assignments, and build a career with purpose.
Your first
assignment is only the beginning.
Area Information
County: Statewide - All 39 Counties
Population: 8.18 Million
# of Staff: Approximately 2,200 Commissioned and Civilian Employees
Hiring Status
Washington State Patrol - Trooper has 108 vacancies.
WSP maintains a
continuously updated eligibility list of qualified applicants. Candidates who
successfully complete the initial hiring requirements are placed on the
eligibility list and ranked according to their results. As hiring needs and
upcoming Trooper Basic Training classes are identified, top-ranking candidates
may be contacted and extended a conditional offer of employment with
instructions for completing the remaining steps in the hiring process.
Ready to Get Started?
Your first step is
completing the written examination and physical fitness test through Public
Safety Testing (PST).
After successfully
completing PST:
Complete your Personal History Statement (PHS).
Your PHS is available through your PST account
and must be complete and thorough before you can move forward in the WSP
hiring process. Important:
Complete and submit your PHS within 14 days of your written examination
to avoid delays in the hiring process.
Submit a Washington State Patrol application.
Create an account through the State of
Washington careers website and submit an application for the WSP Trooper
Cadet position.
WSP reviews your application materials.
Once WSP receives your passing PST scores,
current and complete PHS, and WSP employment application, your information
will be reviewed to determine your eligibility to continue in the
selection process.
WSP Trooper Hiring Process Step 1 - Written
Examination & Physical Fitness Test: Successfully
complete the required testing through Public Safety Testing (PST). Step 2 - WSP
Employment Application & Personal History Statement: Submit
your State of Washington employment application and a complete, current PHS. Step 3 - Polygraph
& Background Investigation: Candidates
advancing in the process undergo a comprehensive background investigation and
polygraph examination. Step 4 - Oral Board: Qualified
candidates participate in an oral board interview. Step 5 -
Psychological & Medical Evaluations: Candidates
who receive a conditional offer must successfully complete required
psychological and medical evaluations.Start Your Career With WSP
The hiring process
is designed to identify candidates who demonstrate the integrity, judgment,
physical readiness, and commitment to public service expected of a Washington
State Patrol Trooper.
Take the first step
and begin your journey toward becoming a Washington State Trooper.
Salary Information
COMPETITIVE PAY. BUILT-IN GROWTH. MORE THAN BASE SALARY.
The Washington
State Patrol offers a highly competitive compensation package designed to
reward experience, education, assignment location, specialized skills, and
career growth.
Current Base Pay
Trooper Cadet: $71,408 annually
Starting Trooper:
$93,156 annually upon successful completion of required training
Trooper with 5+ Years: Base salary continues to increase through scheduled
salary progression and longevity provisions.
Your Base Salary Is Just the Beginning
Eligible troopers
may earn additional compensation, including:
Education Incentive Pay: +2% for an Associate degree | +4% for a Bachelor’s
degree
Geographic Assignment Pay: +10% King County | +5% Snohomish County | +3% Pierce
County
Outpost Assignment Pay: +7% for qualifying locations
Night Shift Differential: +5%
Specialty Assignment Pay: Additional compensation may be available for
qualifying specialty assignments
Longevity & Career Development Pay: Additional compensation opportunities as your WSP
career progresses
Example: A newly
commissioned trooper assigned to King County and working night shift can earn
approximately $105,000 annually.
WSP also offers
opportunities for salary growth through promotions, specialty assignments,
education, and continued service, giving troopers multiple ways to increase
their earning potential throughout their careers.
Please refer to the
current WSP Trooper Cadet job posting and commissioned salary schedule for the
most current salary rates, incentives, and eligibility requirements.
Benefit Information
MORE THAN A PAYCHECK
A career with the
Washington State Patrol comes with a comprehensive benefits package designed to
support you and your family today and help you prepare for the future.
Benefits available
to eligible WSP Troopers include:
Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage – Access to comprehensive health care options for
employees and eligible family members.
Washington State Patrol Retirement System (WSPRS) – A dedicated retirement system for eligible
commissioned Washington State Patrol employees.
Deferred Compensation –
Optional tax-deferred retirement savings through Washington’s Deferred
Compensation Program (DCP).
Paid Vacation & Sick Leave – Build paid leave throughout your career, in addition
to eligible holidays and other leave benefits.
Life & Long-Term Disability Insurance – Employer-provided coverage with options for
additional protection.
Continuing Education –
Opportunities for tuition assistance to continue pursuing your education.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness – WSP employment may qualify eligible employees for
the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
Career Growth – Opportunities for promotion,
specialized assignments, advanced training, and continued professional
development.
Combined with
competitive salary and additional pay opportunities, WSP’s benefits package
provides valuable compensation throughout your career and into retirement.
Benefit
eligibility, coverage, and provisions are subject to applicable laws,
collective bargaining agreements, and plan requirements. Please refer to
current WSP and Washington State benefit information for complete details.
Washington State Patrol - Trooper Requirements
Category
Requirement
Required at time of...
Test
Hire
Written Examination
Yes, required
***FOR TESTS LOCATED AT THE HELEN SOMMERS BUILDING, OLYMPIA, WA, PAY ATTENTION TO SIGNAGE AND PARK IN PUBLIC/NON-RESERVED PARKING SPOTS ONLY***
LEO/CO Physical Ability Test (PAT)
Yes, required as described below
You must have a passing Physical Ability Test (PAT) completed with Public Safety Testing before a conditional offer of employment can be granted. Your PAT must be completed no more than 90 days before your written exam.
PST Personal History Statement
Yes, required within 14 days of passing required exam(s)
Minimum Age
19 1/2
Citizenship
US Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident
High School Grad/ GED
Yes
Driver's License Required
If required by the position description, the 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 license during employment with the WSP.
Felony Conviction(s) as an Adult
None
Felony Conviction(s) as a Juvenile
None
Ability to Read, Speak & Write the English Language
Yes
Vision Requirements
Must successfully pass the medical-physical exam.
College Requirement
No
Veterans Preference Points
Yes
Other Preference Points
No, other preference points are not available.
Current Hiring Status
We will maintain an eligibility list that is continuously updated and expires when we have filled our upcoming Trooper Basic class.
After completing steps 1-4 applicants will be graded/ranked on the eligibility list and each month the top-ranking candidates will be notified and extended a conditional offer of employment, along with details outlining the next steps in the hiring process (see hiring process above).
Body Decorations
At this time, we do not have a tattoo policy.
Multiple Scores from Same Applicant
We only consider the most recent score. An updated PAT may be requested if current is over 6 months old.
Request/Access Scores
Continuously.
Washington State Patrol - Trooper Disqualifiers
The following are automatic and potential disqualifiers. Applicants should not apply to our agency if they indicate any of the automatic disqualifiers. Potential disqualifiers will be considered on a case by case basis.
Category
Disqualifier
Driving
Automatic
No DUI regardless of time frame. This includes reduced charges related to DUI convictions e.g. DUI charge reduced to Negligent Driving 1st Degree, DUI charge reduced to Reckless Driving.
Automatic
No more than two (2) convictions of major moving violations (Reckless Driving, Negligent Driving 2nd Degree, etc.), within in the last five years.
Potential
-Applicants 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 as reported on the Abstract of Driving Record will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
-Upon hire, applicants must possess a Washington State driver's license and maintain such licensure during employment with the WSP.
Drug Usage
Automatic
WHEN FILLING OUT YOUR PHS READ THROUGH EACH SECTION AND BE MINDFUL OF TIMEFRAMES (i.e. within 6 months and outside of 6 months) TO ENSURE TRUTHFULNESS OF PHS PRIOR TO POLYGRAPH
No use or possession of any non-prescribed Schedule 1-5 drugs (except for Cannabis) over five (5) times combined regardless of time frame. This standard applies to synthetic versions of Schedule 1-5 drugs.
Automatic
No use or possession of any non-prescribed Schedule 1-5 drugs (except for Cannabis) in the last three (3) years. This standard applies to synthetic versions of Schedule 1-5 drugs.
Automatic
No use or possession of Cannabis within the last one (1) year excluding topical CBD oils, creams, lotions, etc.
Automatic
No use or possession of Heroin or methamphetamines regardless of time frame.
Automatic
No injection of any non-prescribed illegal drugs (except for anabolic steroids), regardless of time frame.
Automatic
No injection of non-prescribed anabolic steroids in the last three (3) years.
Automatic
No knowingly trafficking, selling, offering to sell, or transporting for sale of any illegal drugs after age 13, regardless of time frame.
Automatic
-No drug use or possession of any non-prescribed Schedule 1-5 drugs (except for Cannabis) 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).
Automatic
No intentional inhalation (huffed) of any aerosol or substance (nitrous oxide, whippets, paint, glue, DXM, etc.) in the last three (3) years.
Automatic
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, 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).
Criminal Activity
Automatic
Any adult felony conviction.
Automatic
Any misdemeanor, or felony conviction while employed in a criminal justice capacity.
Automatic
-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.
-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 Human Resource Division Commander.
***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.
Potential
-Criminal 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.
***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.
Automatic
Been convicted of any crime under a domestic violence statute.
Automatic
-For above criteria, 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 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 Washington State Patrol (WSP) Regulation Manual, Chapter 8.00.320. RCW Mandate – Will apply to all fully commissioned trooper applicants and CVEO applicants.
Employment
Automatic
Lied during any stage of the hiring process.
Automatic
Falsified his or her application, personal history questionnaire, or any other forms during hiring process.
Financial
Potential
Current credit accounts, or unresolved accounts in collection will be carefully reviewed.
Contact Information
Washington State Patrol - Trooper
106 11th Ave SW Suite G400
Olympia, WA 98501
Statewide - All 39 Counties County 360-704-2300
TESTING IN WASHINGTON STATE CANCELED THROUGH MAY 31, 2020
All pre-employment tests in Washington State have been canceled until May 31, 2020 unless government restrictions are eased. With recent updates, facility closures, and government guidelines, this step is necessary and could be modified at any time. The health and safety of our customers, our staff, and their families is of the highest priority.
We will continue to evaluate developments and make changes to this policy as necessary. When we do resume testing, there will be plenty of events for everyone to test. We are in regular communication with our public safety agency partners, assessing alternatives to the traditional testing model and our testing policies. Any future updates will be posted on the PST website and our Facebook page.
4/1/2020 Update:
If you have tested with PST in the past 12 months, there may be additional positions you are now eligible to add. Several departments have temporarily changed their testing policies due to the suspension in testing that COVID-19 has caused. Please login to your PST account and navigate to the ‘New Positions’ page to see what departments you can add! We will regularly update that page in your account as departments send updates.
FUTURE TEST REGISTRATION
We know that there will be testing in the future - we just don’t know when! We want you to be prepared for when testing begins again so we have created test events on our calendar that you can register for that will place you in a queue to be first notified. These tests are not “real” test events, they are essentially a holding area. You will be able to “reschedule” out of that event to any other event date/location at no cost. Registering now will also give you time to work on your Personal History Statement (PHS) so that your data will be ready and up-to-date to send to your departments once testing resumes.
To sign up for this placeholder event, select the June 15, 2020 test date in your category (police, fire, 911 dispatch, corrections, etc.).
You may also click on the test event of interest below to sign up:
Please check back here frequently and ‘Like’ our Facebook page to stay updated.
PST staff are working remotely and are available by email at contact@publicsafetytesting.com. We anticipate a high email volume and will respond as quickly as possible.
