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Montana Highway Patrol Trooper

Montana Department of Justice
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Join the Legacy. Protect Montana. Begin Your Future.

The Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) is building our next class of dedicated law enforcement professionals. If you're ready to serve with purpose, protect with integrity, and grow with a team that supports your future—this is your opportunity.


We’re preparing for our September 2025 hiring cycle for the Spring 2026 Academy – and we want you on our recruitment list.

Step Into the Badge: Your Path to Becoming a Trooper

The selection process starts with the National Police Officer Selection Test™ (POST), administered virtually (dates to be announced). From there, qualified candidates will advance through a structured, supportive hiring process that includes:

  • One-on-one interviews (in person or virtual)
  • Job suitability assessments
  • Background investigations
  • Conditional offer testing
  • Required documentation and onboarding preparation

Top-Tier Training, Fully Supported

Whether you're starting fresh or joining with experience, our academy and training programs are built to set you up for success.

Entry-Level Troopers

  • Attend the Montana Law Enforcement Academy (MLEA) in Helena
  • Continue with the MHP Advanced Academy in Boulder

Lateral Troopers

  • Start directly at the MHP Advanced Academy
  • Out-of-state laterals will also complete LEQ and SFST training (dates TBD)

We’ve got your back—while in training, you'll receive:

  • Full uniforms and gear
  • Paid housing and meals (excluding days off)
  • Compensation during training: $25.58/hour
  • Comprehensive benefits as a State of Montana employee (including dependent coverage)

Note: Compensation is subject to change based on current contract negotiations.

Your Career Starts Here

Upon successful graduation from the MHP Advanced Academy, you’ll be sworn in as a Montana State Trooper and begin your career with:

  • Starting pay: $30.98/hour
  • After one year: $32.30/hour
  • Structured advancement through our pay ladder based on performance and years of service

Veterans Encouraged to Apply

MHP proudly participates in the VA Education Benefits Program. Eligible veterans may receive educational benefits during the probationary period.

Minimum Qualifications

To apply, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Be a U.S. citizen
  • Hold a high school diploma or GED
  • Possess a valid driver’s license

Lateral Candidates must also have a valid Basic Law Enforcement POST Certificate (Montana or another state) issued within the last 5 years.

Final Selection Requirements

Candidates must successfully complete:

  • Criminal history and fingerprint checks
  • Full background investigation
  • Driving history review
  • Drug screening
  • Psychological and physical evaluations
  • Montana Physical Abilities Test (MPAT)

Start Your Journey with MHP

This is more than a job. It’s a career with purpose, pride, and opportunity—serving the people and communities of Montana. Join a team driven by excellence, tradition, and the call to serve.

Fantastic State of Montana benefits: