Join ISP

In 1922, the first state police force in Illinois emerged with a few leather helmet-clad men patrolling the highways on motorcycles. Today, the Illinois State Police (one of the premiere law enforcement agencies in the nation) is a multifaceted police agency enforcing the laws, protecting the public, and providing an array of specialty services to other law enforcement agencies. While exemplifying the values of Integrity, Service, and Pride.

After joining the Illinois State Police you can choose your path from one of the following awesome opportunities:

  • SWAT
  • Crime Scene Investigator
  • K-9
  • Air Patrol
  • Motorcycle Patrol
  • Investigations
  • Patrol
  • Academy Instructor

More information including the ISP Recruitment Video is available by clicking on the employment button on the top of this page or by contacting an Illinois State Police Recruitment Specialist. Information about benefits and other programs offered by the Illinois State Police are available above as well.

More Information on Becoming a Trooper

The Illinois State Police Merit Board is responsible for the selection of Illinois State Trooper candidates. Information on becoming an Illinois State Police Trooper can be found on the Illinois State Police Merit Board website.

Pre-Employment Requirements

  1. Applicant must be at least twenty-one (21) years of age. • An applicant twenty (20) years of age may apply if they have successfully completed an associate degree or 60 credit hours at an accredited college or university.
  2. Applicant cannot have been convicted of a felony.
  3. Applicant must be a citizen of the United States.
  4. Applicant must possess a valid driver’s license at the time of completing the application.
  5. Applicant must be willing to accept an assignment anywhere in the State.
  6. Applicant must have completed, with a C average or better, one of the following education requirements:
    Option 1 Associate degree or 60 credit hours from an accredited college or university
    Option 2 No education needed if applicant meets one of the following:
    • Honorably discharged AND has been awarded at least one of the qualifying medals by the United States Armed Forces. Proof must be provided on a DD-214.
    • An active member of the Illinois National Guard or a reserve component of the United States Armed Forces AND have been awarded at least one of the qualifying medals as a result of honorable service during deployment on active duty. Proof must be provided on a DD-214.
    • Honorably discharged AND served in a combat mission by proof of hostile fire pay or imminent danger pay during deployment on active duty. Proof must be provided on a DD-214.
    • Have at least 3 years of full active and continuous military duty and received an honorable discharge before hiring. Proof must be provided on a DD-214.
  7. Option 3 No education needed if applicant meets ALL of the following at the time of application:
    • Have successfully completed basic law enforcement training;
    • Have at least 3 years of continuous, full-time service as a peace officer with the same police department; and,
    • Currently serving as a peace officer.

Benefits:

  • Shift Differential Pay
  • Hazardous Duty Pay
  • Uniform Allowance
  • Starting Base Salary of $84,420 plus Benefits
  • Salary during cadet training is $3,968/monthly
    • Additional Benefits:
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • Benefits for Family and Domestic Partners
  • Full Medical Coverage
  • Uniform & Necessary Equipment at no cost
  • Parental Leave (12 weeks)
  • Take Home Department-Issued Squad Car
  • Retirement/Pension
  • Diverse Career Opportunities
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Career Advancement
  • Medical/Dental/Optical Insurance

    • For information, or to speak with a recruiter in your area, please contact:
  • Northern Recruiter – ISP.Recruitment@illinois.gov
  • Central Recruiter – Sgt. Omoayena Williams (312) 208-6066
  • Southern Recruiter – Sgt. Maurice Austin (618) 301-7218
Illinois State Police Recruitment Section
3700 East Lake Shore Drive
Springfield, Illinois 62712
illinoistrooper.com
Phone: 217-785-4370
217-786-6222
The Illinois State Police is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Click HERE to view the Sworn Brochure