Become a Trooper

The Illinois State Police Merit Boardis responsible for certifying applicants to the Illinois State Police for appointment. To apply to become an Illinois State Police Trooper, visit the Illinois State Police Merit Board Opens in new window website.

Illinois State Police Recruitment

Illinois State Police recruitment flyer promoting careers as an Illinois State Trooper.

Download the ISP Recruitment Flyer (PDF) Opens in new window

Be Part of the Tradition

  • Protect the public
  • Help people in need
  • Make a positive impact on people's lives
  • Serve your community
  • Enjoy diverse career opportunities and career advancement

Starting Salary: $90,828

Highlighted Benefits

  • Shift differential pay
  • Hazardous duty pay
  • Uniform allowance
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • 12 weeks paternity/maternity leave
  • And many more benefits

Start your Illinois State Police career Opens in a new window

Benefits

Compensation and Financial Benefits:

  • Salary: As of 7/1/2026, upon successful completion of the Academy, a first-year Trooper's base salary is $90,828 which is competitive with other public and private agencies. Salary increases are earned through incremental service longevity steps or promotion in rank.
  • Overtime
  • Holidays: 14 paid holidays annually.
  • Annual clothing and uniform allowance.
  • Deferred Compensation options

Insurance and Health:

  • Medical/Dental/Vision
  • Life Insurance

Time off and Retirement:

  • Vacation/Sick Leave: First-year Troopers earn two weeks of paid vacation annually and one sick day per month (sick time can be utilized for family members).
  • Retirement:
    • Information available to SERS
    • Tier 1: This information applies to individuals who became a member of SERS or a reciprocal system on or before December 31, 2010. The alternative formula applies to members in certain positions with 20 years of alternative service. Members eligible for the alternative formula may retire at age 50 with 25 years of service, or at age 55 with 20 years of service.
    • Tier 2: This information applies to individuals who became a member of SERS or a reciprocal system after December 31, 2010. The alternative formula applies to members in certain positions with 20 years of alternative service. Members eligible for the alternative formula may retire at age 60 with 20 years of service.
  • Maternity/Paternity Leave: 12-weeks paid leave to use upon the birth/adoption of a child.
  • Bereavement Leave

Wellness Resources:

  • BeWell Illinois
  • Peer Support
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Cadet Family Orientation
  • Wellness Retreat opportunities

Additional Benefits:

  • Equipment: Fully equipped squad car and all necessary gear provided by the Department.
  • Education: Earn university credits hours for academy training and tuition reimbursement programs available.
    • Participating educational institutions include:
      • Eastern Illinois University
      • Governors State University
      • Illinois State University
      • Northern Illinois University
      • Southern Illinois University Carbondale
      • Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
      • Western Illinois University
      • The American Public University
      • University of Maryland Global Campus
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • Opportunities for specialty positions statewide