Want an exciting and rewarding career?
If you are looking for a rewarding, fast-paced and exciting career, then applying to one of South Carolina’s largest law enforcement agencies is your answer!
Start your journey today. Apply here!
Why choose the SC Highway Patrol?
There are many reasons why you should choose the SC Highway Patrol:
- NEW: $10,000 Sign-On Bonus for critical needs areas
- Higher starting salaries
- Robust state benefits package
- Career opportunities in specialized units
Basic Requirements
- At least 21 years of age before day one of Basic Training. Not 21 yet? Become a Telecommunications Operator for SCHP until you can enter the academy. Learn more about our Telecommunications Operator positions here.
- A valid South Carolina Driver's License or a valid Driver's License from your current State
- U.S. Citizen
- High School Diploma or GED
- 20/20 vision OR no more than 20/200 corrected to 20/100 or below
- NO CRIMINAL RECORD
- Driving record should be clear of any suspension for the last 5 years as a result of alcoholic beverage or dangerous drug violation or leaving the scene of an accident. The overall driving record will be evaluated placing emphasis on the severity, date and age, time span, and number of violations accumulated.
How to Become a State Trooper
There are several steps to join the SC Highway Patrol, including completing Law Enforcement Basic training and a passing rigorous selection process. Find out more below:
New - Lowcountry Regional Training Pilot Program
Beginning in the Spring of 2026, the Highway Patrol will offer a Regional Training Pilot Program for certified law enforcement applications for the following counties: Charleston, Berkeley, Colleton, Dorchester, Beaufort, Jasper, Orangeburg, and Calhoun.
Please note that this Regional Training Program is for pre-certified law enforcement applicants only. Recruits will enjoy a program with the same level of professionalism and training that every Highway Patrol Trooper receives.
Regional Training Pilot Program Frequently Asked Questions
- Is this regional training just for certified police officers?
Yes, you must be a current certified Class 1 law enforcement officer.
- Can I be assigned anywhere in the state?
No, this regional training will be for troopers that will be assigned to Troop 6 (Charleston, Berkeley, Colleton, Dorchester, Beaufort, Jasper) and Troop 7 Post B (Orangeburg, Calhoun).
- How long is the training?
Training will last 8 weeks in St. George.
- Will I be able to go home every night?
Yes, you will attend training Monday- Friday and return home each evening. The average training day will be from 8:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. with some exceptions for low light training later in the evening.
- Will I receive a patrol car to drive to training each day?
Yes, trainees will be issued a patrol car, uniforms and equipment during orientation.
- When will this training begin?
Orientation is scheduled for April 27-29, 2026, in Blythewood, S.C. The local training will begin Thursday April 30, 2026. Completion of the trooper training in scheduled for June 19, 2026.
- When should I apply for one of these positions in the regional training academy?
Applications must be received by February 1, 2026. You can find and submit the application here.
Ready to join the SC Highway Patrol?
We are ready to hear from you!