Maryland State Trooper Training

The Maryland State Police provide a full range of law enforcement services including traffic enforcement, criminal investigations, tactical operations and drug enforcement.  In many counties Maryland State Troopers serve as the primary law enforcement officials.  The Department of Maryland State Police hires only the most qualified candidates for Maryland State Trooper jobs.


If you would like to learn how to become a Maryland State Trooper, please examine these guidelines.

  1. Evaluate yourself
  2. Attend an Applicant Orientation
  3. Meet minimum standards on the Functional Fitness Assessment Test
  4. Successfully pass the Police Officer Standardized Test
  5. Complete and submit the Maryland State Police application
  6. Submit to an oral interview
  7. Successfully pass the polygraph test
  8. Submit to a background investigation
  9. Pass the medical and psychological evaluations
  10. Complete Maryland State Trooper training

Step 1. Evaluate Yourself

The minimum qualifications to become a Maryland State Trooper are

  • Be a U.S. citizen
  • Possess a high school diploma or GED certificate
  • Possess a valid driver’s license
  • Be between the ages of 19 and 51
  • Possess vision of 20/20 or better with or without correction

If you have the following conditions you may be ineligible for Maryland State Trooper jobs.

  • Felony conviction
  • Have more than 3 points on your driving record
  • Conviction or court order related to domestic violence
  • Used a controlled substance within the past three years

Step 2. Attend an Applicant Orientation

The three hour seminar will introduce you to the basic requirements, ideal qualifications and responsibilities of a Maryland State Trooper. You will need to register for this orientation, arrive on time and in formal business attire. You will also need to bring your driver’s license and know your Social Security number.

Step 3. Meet Minimum Standards on the Functional Fitness Assessment Test

The Functional Fitness Assessment Test will evaluate your ability to perform strenuous physical activity.

  • At least 18 push-ups must be completed within one minute
  • At least 27 sit-ups must be completed within one minute
  • A 1.5 mile run must be completed within 15 minutes and 20 seconds
  • Must be able to extend fingertips 1.5 inches beyond your toes in a seated position
  • Must be able to pull the trigger of a handgun ten times with each hand

Step 4. Successfully Pass the Police Officer Standardized Test

The Police Officer Standardized Test is comprised of four sections.

  1. Mathematics
  2. Reading comprehension
  3. Grammar
  4. Writing skills

Step 5. Complete and Submit the Maryland State Police Application

If you have passed the physical and written tests, you will be mailed an application packet.  While you have up to a year to complete and submit it, you are encouraged to return it within 30 days.

Step 6. Submit to an Oral Interview

This 45-60 minute interview will assess your verbal communication and interpersonal skills.

Step 7.  Successfully Pass the Polygraph Test

This test is used to verify the truthfulness of previously provided information as well as more investigative queries regarding your history and character. Upon passing this step, you will be offered a Conditional Offer of Employment.

Step 8. Submit to a Background Investigation

If you live in state the MSP will conduct this intensive background check; if you live outside the state, your local state police will conduct it.

Step 9. Pass the Medical and Psychological Evaluations

The agency physician will evaluate your vision, hearing and other physical characteristics to ensure that no limiting factors would disallow you from serving with the MSP.  A psychologist will also evaluate your mental state and determine if you are capable of enduring the stress of being a Maryland State Trooper.

Step 10. Complete Maryland State Trooper Training

The 26 week training program will be offered through the Maryland State Police Academy.  Recruits will learn a variety of new skills including

  • Emergency vehicle operation
  • Firearms
  • Defensive tactics
  • Sobriety testing

Following the Maryland State Trooper Training program you will be assigned to a Field Training Trooper who will guide you through field training for eight weeks.

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