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Highway Patrolman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Custodian I

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$3.3K - $4.1K/mo

Permanent, Full Time Department Information California Highway Patrol Ventura Area (765) 4656 Valentine Road Ventura, CA 93003 The mission of the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is to provide the ...

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Highway Patrolman information

See salary details

$30.5K

$49.5K

$66.5K

How much do highway patrolman jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for highway patrolman in the United States is $49,500.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $57,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges highway patrolmen face while working in the field?

Highway Patrolmen often encounter challenges such as managing high-stress situations, responding to traffic accidents, and ensuring their own safety during roadside stops. They must remain vigilant and adaptable, as traffic conditions and incident types can change rapidly. Additionally, balancing enforcement duties with public assistance and education requires strong communication skills and sound judgment. Support from fellow officers and ongoing training help patrolmen navigate these challenges and perform their duties effectively.

What is the difference between Highway Patrolman vs State Trooper?

AspectHighway PatrolmanState Trooper
Required CredentialsHigh School diploma, driver’s license, police academy trainingHigh School diploma, police academy, certification
Work EnvironmentHighways, rural roads, traffic stopsHighways, urban and rural areas, traffic enforcement
Employer & IndustryState police agencies, law enforcementState police departments, law enforcement

Both Highway Patrolmen and State Troopers typically require similar credentials, including police academy training and a driver’s license. They work in similar environments, primarily on highways and roads, enforcing traffic laws. The main difference lies in terminology used by different states; often, 'Highway Patrolman' and 'State Trooper' are interchangeable roles within state law enforcement agencies.

What is a highway patrolman?

Highway Patrolmen are law enforcement officers who specialize in monitoring and enforcing traffic laws on highways, interstates, and state roads. Their primary responsibilities include patrolling roadways to prevent accidents, assisting motorists, investigating traffic collisions, and apprehending drivers who violate traffic laws. They may also help with emergency response during natural disasters or hazardous road conditions. Highway Patrolmen work to ensure public safety and the smooth flow of traffic across major transportation routes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a highway patrolman, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Highway Patrolman, you need a solid understanding of traffic laws, criminal justice procedures, and physical fitness, typically backed by a high school diploma and completion of police academy training. Familiarity with radar guns, breathalyzers, police radios, and mobile data terminals is common, along with certifications in firearms and emergency response. Strong decision-making, stress management, and effective communication are vital soft skills for handling high-pressure situations and interacting with the public. These skills ensure the safety of roadways, enable effective law enforcement, and foster positive community relations.
More about Highway Patrolman jobs
What cities are hiring for Highway Patrolman jobs? Cities with the most Highway Patrolman job openings:
What states have the most Highway Patrolman jobs? States with the most job openings for Highway Patrolman jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Highway Patrolman jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Highway Patrolman jobs are:
Infographic showing various Highway Patrolman job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,500 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

About Us:

Our Mission is to save lives, reduce injuries and economic loss, administer Ohio's motor vehicle laws and preserve the safety and wellbeing of all citizens. 

Ohio Department of Public Safety - Ohio State Highway Patrol 

Report in location: Multiple Dispatch Centers

Work hours: Rotating Shifts & Rotating Days Off

The Cadet Candidate Training Program consists of a training guide, physical fitness tests, monthly evaluations, and successful completion of the Field Training Dispatcher Guide. 

Job Duties as a Cadet Candidate:

  • Under close supervision of highway patrol Lieutenant &/or Dispatch Supervisor, participates in law enforcement activities designed to provide training & experience (e.g., traffic enforcement, motor vehicle & aircraft crash investigations, criminal investigations, patrolling techniques, rules of evidence & court procedures, driver license & vehicle registration enforcement).

  • Handles desk duty at patrol post (e.g., answers telephone & takes information related to crashes, law violations &/or assorted emergencies, responds to inquiries from public in office or by telephone).

  • Operates Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) to transmit or receive data.

  • Operates multichannel radio system to transmit & receive radio communications.

  • Prepares & maintains required reports.

High school diploma or GED equivalent; Must be a U.S. citizen; Must be a minimum of 18 years of age; Must have valid driver's license with no more than five active points; Must enter an academy class before reaching their 40th birthday.Â