Join the Montana Highway Patrol - Make a Difference Every Day

Are you ready to serve and protect with integrity, courage, and commitment? The Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) is now accepting applications for both Entry-Level and Lateral-Level Trooper positions. This is your chance to be part of a proud tradition of excellence and leadership in law enforcement.

Start Your Journey

Initial Screening: Begins July 21, 2025
Successful applicants will move forward to the National Police Officer Selection Testing (TM), conducted virtually between July 28 - August 1, 2025.

From there, qualified candidates will progress through a structured and supportive selection process, including:

One-on-one interviews
Job suitability assessments
Background investigations
Conditional offer testing
Required paperwork and documentation
Academy and Training

Entry-Level Troopers

Start Date: January 5, 2026
Basic Academy (MLEA) in Helena starts January 26, 2026
MHP Advanced Academy in Boulder on April 22, 2026
Lateral-Level Troopers

Start Date: April 13, 2026
Begin directly at the MHP Advanced Academy
Out-of-state candidates will also complete LEQ and SFST training (dates TBD)
Compensation is provided for all training

We've got you covered - During both academies, you'll receive:

Full uniforms and equipment
Housing and meals (excluding days off)
Compensation at $25.58/hour
Full State of Montana employee benefits
Your Career, Your Future

Upon successful graduation from the MHP Advanced Academy, you'll be sworn in as a Montana State Trooper - Starting Pay: $30.98/hour

After 1 year probation: $32.30/hour
Career advancement through a structured pay ladder based on longevity and performance.

Veterans Welcome

MHP proudly participates in the VA Education Benefits Program. Eligible veterans may receive education benefits throughout the probationary period.

Qualifications

To apply, you must:

Be 18 years or older
Be a U.S. citizen
Have a high school diploma or GED
Hold a valid driver's license
Lateral candidates: Must possess a current Basic Law Enforcement POST Certificate (from Montana or another state) earned within the last 5 years

Selection Requirements

Applicants must successfully complete:

Criminal history and fingerprint checks
Extensive background investigation
Driving history review
Drug screening
Psychological and physical evaluations
Montana Physical Abilities Test (MPAT)

CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR RESUME