what to know
- Governor Kathy Hochul announced that she has approved a request by the New York State Police to increase the maximum age to apply to become a New York State Police officer from 29 to 34 years of age.
- Hochul’s plan provides two additional classes each year, allowing for an unprecedented four classes per year.
- State Police have redesigned their recruiting program to reach more potential minority and female candidates.
NEW YORK — If you were 30 and wanted to be an officer in the New York State Police, under the rules above, you would have already been out of age to apply by one year. The good news is that changes are now coming to the status for those under 34 years of age.
On Thursday, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that she has approved a measure to increase the maximum age allowed to apply for the New York State Police. Now to become a New York State Police you can be anywhere from 29 to 34 years old. The change in requirements reinforces Governor Hochul’s commitment to expanding public safety initiatives throughout New York.
In addition to raising the age requirement, earlier this year the Governor announced more than $66 million in the budget to fund additional classes at the New York State Police Academy and increase the number of officers dedicated to tackling serious crimes.
“Public safety is my highest priority, and the State Police are the spearhead in our efforts to combat gun violence and keep New Yorkers safe,” said Governor Hochul. “By raising the maximum age for new recruits, we are expanding the pool of people who can help us with this incredibly important work. After doubling the number of graduating classes from the New York State Police Academy starting next this new rule will help the state recruit more officers and protect the people of New York.”
Hochul’s plan provides two additional classes each year, allowing for an unprecedented four classes per year. This will expedite the rebuilding of the force and expand the number of officers dedicated to addressing violent crime and quality of life issues, such as removing illegal firearms from the streets and combating the flow of drugs in some of the most vulnerable neighborhoods. of the state.
State Police have redesigned their recruiting program to reach more potential minority and female candidates. This includes meeting with leaders in communities that are underrepresented within the police, with the goal of building positive, long-term relationships. The State Police has also made the 30X30 pledge and has committed to increasing its percentage of female recruits to 30 percent by 2030. The agency has recruiting teams in every troop to network at events and within neighborhoods.
“This change will allow us to recruit the most diverse and skilled pool of candidates possible,” said New York State Police Acting Superintendent Steven A. Nigrelli. “There are many qualified candidates from the military or other careers who decide they want to transition into the State Police, but due to the previous age requirement, some were not eligible. These are people who have a great deal of knowledge and experience to bring to the job. The New York State Police has a proud tradition of excellence. By raising the age, we ensure we have the best and most qualified candidates possible to carry on that legacy, and serve and protect the people of New York “.
How can I sign up to be a New York State Police officer?
Candidates can learn how to become a New York State Trooper and register to take the exam here.
The upcoming Troopers entrance exam will take place concurrently with the application process from July 2023 to September 2023, and will be administered online at licensed testing centers to make the exam more accessible. Individuals will be able to apply beginning July 1 and can schedule a time to take the exam beginning July 10.
The State Police has contracted with Pearson VUE, which will offer the Soldier Entrance Exam at 54 testing centers in New York State, more than 280 locations in the United States and 100 military locations worldwide. Candidates can choose where and when to take the exam. The online testing process makes it more convenient and accessible for anyone interested in becoming a soldier.
A study guide for the exam is available here.
MINIMUM EXAM SCORE:
- Be a US citizen
- 20-34 years of age (Maximum age may be extended by one year for each year of full-time active military service, up to a maximum of 7 years)
- High school diploma or equivalent
Additional requirements can be found here.
SALARY AND BENEFITS:
- Starting salary: $59,612
- After one year: $84,331
- Comprehensive benefits and retirement
