State police entrance exam accepting applications

As part of a $66 million push to increase the number of troopers, entrance exam applications are open for the New York State Police

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEXSTAR) — Entrance exam applications have opened for the New York State Police. Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Friday that it's part of a $66 million push to increase the number of troopers.

The funding aims to offer more training academy classes, with the long-term goal of addressing ongoing safety issues like tracking illegal guns. With the recruitment period underway, testing starts on August 15.

“Public safety is my top priority, and we will continue to make record investments in law enforcement so that New York State is best prepared to protect New Yorkers,” Hochul said in the announcement. “I encourage those interested in a rewarding career to apply now.”

To take the exam, you must:

• Be a U.S. citizen
• Be 20 to 34 years old (or up to 41 for applicants with full-time active military experience)
• Have a high school or equivalency diploma

The application costs $20. After applying, candidates can sign up to take the exam at a Pearson VUE testing center, found in Albany, Brooklyn, Getzville, East Syracuse, Manhattan, New Hyde Park, Rochester, Rockville Center, Utica, Watertown, White Plains, and Yonkers. That costs $44.

An appointment to the State Police Academy requires anywhere from 30 to 60 college credits. And ultimately, to become a state trooper, you must:

• Be 21 to 35 years old (or up to 42 for candidates with full-time active military experience)
• Be a New York State resident
• Have a valid New York driver's license
• Pass a physical test including sit-ups, push-ups, and a 1.5-mile run
• Pass hearing and vision tests
• Be able to work rotating shifts every day of the year

For the most part, tattoos, piercings, or brands must be hidden. Head, neck, face, hand, wrist, and finger ink are not allowed, except for a single band, under three-eighths of an inch wide, on one finger. Back, chest, and upper arm tattoos must be covered by a short-sleeved uniform. Other arm tattoos must fit beneath arm sleeves provided by the state.

Salaries for police academy appointees start at $59,612. After a year, minimum pay inflates to $98,300, with full health and retirement benefits.

“The New York State Police has a reputation and tradition of excellence. A career as a State Trooper is both challenging and rewarding, providing a unique opportunity to positively impact communities across the State," said New York State Police Superintendent Steven James. "It is more important than ever that we better represent the communities we serve, build better relationships, and increase our diversity to enhance the service we provide New Yorkers.”

To increase diversity, State Police participate in the 30x30 pledge, representing a commitment to increase the presence of women in police recruit classes by 30% by 2030.