Delaware State Trooper Training

Delaware state troopers are members of the Delaware State Police (DSP) which was formed in 1923 in response to inadequate law enforcement on Delaware’s roadways due to roving troublemakers, on-the-run bootleggers and cars speeding at 35 miles per hour!

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This guide provides the four steps you will need to take in order to qualify for training so as to become a state trooper in Delaware:

  1. Submit an Application (after ensuring that you meet basic qualifications)
  2. Written Examination and Physical Fitness Test
  3. Oral Board Interview, Polygraph and Background Investigation
  4. Conditional Offer to Attend DSP Training Academy

Step 1. Submit an Application if Basic Qualifications are Met

The basic requirements Delaware State Trooper jobs:

  • You must be a U.S. citizen.
  • You must be 21 years of age before completing training and no older than 39 on the first day of training.
  • You must possess a high school diploma or GED PLUS a minimum of 60 semester credits (90 quarter credits) at the college level (alternately, you may qualify with 30 college credits and two years of active-duty military service).
  • You must be a resident of Delaware by the end of training.
  • You must have a valid driver’s license and at least one year driving experience.
  • No felony convictions. Any arrests will be cause for review.
  • No illegal drug use for the past two years and no use ever of hallucinogenics.
  • Your current weight must be in compliance with the DSP weight chart.
  • You need normal hearing and vision (including color and depth perception).

You can download an application form or get one from any DSP location. Return the completed application to Human Resources Office, P.O. Box 430, Dover, DE 19903.

Step 2. Take the Written Examination and Physical Fitness Test

The exam tests your cognitive abilities, including memorization, visualization, spatial orientation, reasoning, reading comprehension and problem-solving ability. It also examines motivational and attitudinal characteristics. The test is graded immediately and you will be sent home if you fail.

Test components include continual push-ups and sit-ups for one minute each and a one-mile run. You must submit a completed physician’s authorization form before taking the examination. It’s usually given the same day as the written examination so be prepared to change into appropriate exercise clothing and running shoes.

Step 3. Oral Board Interview, Polygraph and Background Investigation

The interview will focus on your ability to communicate effectively, make decisions under pressure, function when in physical danger and exercise good judgment. Your reasoning, interpersonal interactions, common sense, enthusiasm for the job, conscientiousness and sense of responsibility will also be evaluated.

While attached to a polygraph machine you will be asked questions about such things as your driving record, employment history, drug usage and criminal activities.

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A thorough investigation of your educational, employment, military (if applicable), driving and financial history will be carried out. It will include interviews with your family members, employers, co-workers and neighbors.

 Step 4. Conditional Offer to Attend the Academy

You will be given an offer of employment contingent upon your successful completion of another battery of tests, including a medical exam, eye exam, psychological evaluation a final physical fitness assessment.

You will spend 22 weeks undergoing intensive training at the Delaware State Police Academy in Dover, DE. Please note that if you are a current Delaware police officer or a state trooper from another state you may be eligible for an accelerated training program.

Delaware State Trooper Salaries and Benefits

The average annual trainee salary is $44,527. After graduating from the academy that amount is increased to $50,725 with future raises and the potential to step up in rank. You must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university to reach the rank of lieutenant or higher; however, college tuition assistance is a trooper benefit, along with health insurance, a generous pension plan, furnished uniforms and a take-home car.

If you are still in college and considering a future career with the DSP, inquire about the force’s student internship program.

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