If you are selected as a cadet for the Pennsylvania State Police, you’re journey will begin at the Pennsylvania State Police Academy, which is located in Hershey, Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania State Police Academy is widely considered to be one of the best state trooper academies in the nation. Training is regimented, demanding, and exhausting. It will test you physically and emotionally and is a life-changing experience. Cadets learn to meet and exceed seemingly impossible challenges. However, those who make it through the grueling 26 week program earn the rank of Pennsylvania State Trooper and embark on the career of a lifetime. Are you up to the challenge?

The Pennsylvania State Police is a paramilitary organization and, as such, military courtesy and discipline are practiced from the first day you enter the state police academy as a cadet. Cadets also immediately begin an 18 month probationary period the day that they report for induction into the academy.

Cadets will be informed of Department and Academy rules and regulations, which govern their actions during training and employment with the Pennsylvania State Police. Cadets and Troopers are also subject to dismissal, by the Commissioner, during their probationary period for incompetence, ineffeciency, or violations of rules and regulations.

Cadets must maintain proper discipline and deportment and meet attendance requirements. Cadets are required to maintain their personal appearance, rooms, issued equipment, and personal belongings in accordance with rules and regulations. All of these items are subject to periodic inspections by the training staff.

Cadets will also be subject to unannounced drug screenings during their training.

Cadets also assist in maintaining all training facilities and equipment, including the kennels and the stables. Cadets perform kitchen and dining hall service, assist the Charge of Quarters, and staff the communications desk.