To help with state trooper recruitment, NY raises max age from 29 to 34 for new hires

Press Release, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Office

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that she has approved a request from the New York State Police to raise the maximum age to apply to become a New York State Trooper from 29 to 34.

The requirement change reinforces Governor Hochul’s commitment to expanding public safety initiatives across New York. In addition to raising the age requirement, earlier this year, the Governor announced more than $66 million in the budget to fund additional New York State Police academy classes and increase the number of New York State Troopers dedicated to addressing serious crime.

“Public safety is my top priority, and the State Police are the tip of the spear in our efforts to combat gun violence and keep New Yorkers safe,” Hochul said. “By raising the maximum age of new recruits, we are widening the pool of people who can help us with this incredibly important work. After doubling the number of graduating classes from the New York State Police Academy starting next year, this new rule will help the State recruit more Troopers and protect the people of New York.”

The Governor’s plan provides for two additional classes each year allowing for four unprecedented classes annually. This will accelerate the rebuilding of the force and expand the number of troopers dedicated to addressing violent crimes and quality of life issues such as removing illegal guns from the streets and combating the flow of drugs within some of the state’s most vulnerable neighborhoods.

State Police has redesigned its recruitment program to reach more potential female and minority candidates. This includes meeting with leaders in communities that are underrepresented within law enforcement, with the goal of building positive long-term relationships. The State Police has also taken the 30X30 pledge and is committed to increasing its percentage of female recruits to 30 percent by 2030. The agency has recruitment teams in each troop to network at events and within neighborhoods.

Candidates can learn about becoming a New York State Trooper and sign up to take the exam at joinstatepolice.ny.gov.

The next Trooper Entrance exam will be held simultaneously with the application process from July 2023 through September 2023, and will be administered online at authorized testing centers to make the exam more accessible. Individuals will be able to apply beginning July 1, and can schedule a time to take the exam as early as July 10.

The State Police has contracted with Pearson VUE, which will offer the Trooper Entrance Exam at 54 testing centers in New York State, more than 280 locations in the United States, and 100 military locations around the world. Candidates can choose where and when they take the exam. The online testing process makes it more convenient and accessible for anyone interested in becoming a trooper.

Minimum Exam Qualifications – US Citizen; 20-34 years of age (The maximum age may be extended one year for each year of full-time active military duty – up to a maximum of 7 years); High school diploma or equivalents; Additional requirements can be found by clicking here.

Salary and benefits –  Starting salary: $59,612; After one year: $84,331; Full benefits & retirement.