How to Become a State Trooper in Iowa

"Seeking justice through honesty to ourselves, department and family" sums up the mission of the State of Iowa Highway Patrol Officers. Joining the ranks of this group who patrols and protects the roads and highways of Iowa is not easy, but it can be a satisfying career should you decide to embark on the journey. Follow the steps below to become an Iowa State Highway Patrol Officer or State Trooper.

Things You'll Need

• High school diploma or GED
• Valid drivers license

Instructions

1. Be a United States citizen, have a valid drivers license and a high school diploma or GED equivalent.

2. Begin the application process by calling the toll free application phone number [phone].

3. Have vision that is correctable to 20/20 and an acceptable degree of color vision that enables you to function in a highway patrol situation.

4. Pass a physical fitness test that includes one minute sit ups, sit and reach, one and a half mile run and one minute push ups.

5. Complete a background check, polygraph test and written and oral exams. After successfully passing these requirements, you will be offered a place in the training academy.

Tips & Warnings

• You need to be a resident of Iowa when you are employed as a State Trooper. Up until time of employment, you may be a resident of another state.

• Do not apply to become an Iowa State Trooper if you have had five or more driving violations in the three years just prior to the application process.

Resources

• Iowa State Trooper information