Be the
Difference
At the California Highway Patrol, we know that you make the difference in your community. We are looking for dedicated individuals to join California’s strongest team and provide safety, service and security to communities all across the state. We are as diverse as we are strong, and we want to do more than make a difference — we want to make the difference.
As an officer, you’ll have the opportunity to earn $122,500 as a starting salary. You’ll also enjoy a comprehensive benefits package and unparalleled camaraderie with your fellow officers. A career with the CHP is a life-changing opportunity. Apply now and begin your journey. Are you made for more?
Explore Benefits
PAID WORLD-CLASS TRAINING
GUARANTEED CAREER AFTER THE ACADEMY
UNRIVALED STARTING SALARY & BENEFITS
OPPORTUNITY FOR GROWTH
FLEXIBLE LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT CALIFORNIA
RENOWNED CAMARADERIE
The 26-week CHP Academy is revered worldwide. All CHP cadets go through the same elite training that takes place at the West Sacramento campus.
Cadets also earn a monthly salary of $6,344 – $8,131 while attending the CHP Academy, monthly overtime compensation, free room and board, CAHP union benefits, in addition to full health and dental benefits for themselves and their dependents (effective the first month following their Academy reporting date).
After graduation, cadets are immediately promoted to the position of CHP officer. During the period between weeks 19 and 21, prior to graduation, cadets receive a “Dream Sheet”; a list of those CHP Area offices that have openings for new officers. Cadets list their choices of locations by order of personal preference. The majority of initial assignments are in the busier major metropolitan areas but officers are eligible to submit a transfer request after they complete 12 months working as a probationary officer.
Upon graduation from the CHP Academy, cadets are promoted to the position of officer and will make a base salary up to $122,500.
Comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage is provided for CHP officers and their families, with a generous annual leave program that accumulates with years of service in the Department.
The CHP is a very diverse agency that performs many different duties ranging from patrolling the streets to protecting the Governor. Some special CHP assignments include, but are not limited to, drug interdiction, auto theft, accident investigation, DUI enforcement, K-9 units, Air Operations, and motorcycle patrol, to mention a few.
You are trained to work anywhere in the state. As personal or family needs change, officers can transfer to any of the 103 area offices or 16 commercial enforcement facilities, based on departmental seniority. In other words, you won’t have to spend your whole career working in the same location unless you want to.
There is a very strong esprit de corps at the CHP, both when going through training at the Academy and when working with others in sometimes high stressful and difficult situations. You will develop a great sense of camaraderie with your fellow members of the Highway Patrol. The sense of family is strong at the CHP.
Find Your Future
Curious about becoming a CHP Officer, but not sure which of your many available career paths to explore? Click the button to play the Find Your Future Game.
California Highway Patrol Cadets
Cadets of CTC 1-22 commence on their challenging 26-week journey at the CHP Academy. Over 26 weeks, they will be united by a single mission: to join the ranks of CHP Officers. These cadets are set to undergo rigorous training designed to test their physical strength and mental fortitude. Success is achieved by only the most dedicated. Watch episodes premiering every Wednesday, 4:00PM PST on our CHP YouTube channel.
Life At The Academy
All CHP cadets go through the same 26-week training that takes place on the West Sacramento campus, including academics, exercise, diet and self-discipline. By graduation day, you will have earned and learned to take great pride in your new position as a CHP officer. Graduating cadets will immediately begin field training at area offices across California, where you can put your new skills to the test.
Safety, Service, And Security
Safety, service and security – it’s what we stand for. For nearly a century, members of the CHP have worked to keep California residents and visitors safe and secure on the state’s highway system. Day or night, short trip or road trip, let us clear the way for your journey ahead. We are yours, California, and we will continue to serve you with pride.
