73rd Class

Overview

The Wisconsin State Patrol is looking for the next generation of committed law enforcement officers to join the 73rd Recruit Class. State Patrol officers may serve in specialized roles and units including pilots, K-9 officers, crash reconstruction, commercial motor vehicle inspectors, dignitary protection, human trafficking, and drug interdiction.

WisDOT is a great place to work with a competitive benefits package and comprehensive training. Additional information about WisDOT values and the State Patrol’s benefits is provided below.

The primary responsibility of State Patrol Troopers and Inspectors is the enforcement of state traffic and criminal laws, regulation of traffic, prevention of highway crashes, and criminal interdiction. This includes providing assistance to motorists and the public and inspecting trucks, school buses, and ambulances. They may support local, state, and federal agencies during civil disturbances, natural disasters, special details, and routine back-up.

Paid training provided. Cadets complete 22 weeks of training at the State Patrol Academy, live on campus during the week, with room and board provided. After graduation, cadets receive 12 additional weeks of field training with a Field Training Officer. Location and assignment are determined after graduation based on class rank.

Throughout the recruitment period, state patrol information sessions will be held virtually to explain hiring timelines and preparation tips.

Salary information and the job details are described below.

State Patrol Troopers and Inspectors are represented by the Wisconsin Law Enforcement Association (WLEA). The annual salary ranges from $71,448 to $98,800, depending on years of certified law enforcement experience  increases up to seven years of experience. A two-year probationary period is required.

• Recruitment timeline:
  Approximately six months from Final date to receive applications to official offer. Steps include online application, interview, background investigation, physical readiness testing, and pre-employment medical and psychological exams.
• Final date to receive applications:
  February 15, 2026
• Interviews (In-Person):
  March 9–13, 2026
• Background Investigations:
  March 23, 2026
• Conditional Offers:
  May 1, 2026
• Written Psychological Exam & Physical Readiness Testing:
  May 9, 2026
• Psychological Interview/Medical Examination:
  May 18–22, 2026
• Final Offers:
  June 12, 2026
• Recruit Class Begins:
  July 12, 2026
• Graduation:
  December 18, 2026

Interviews are conducted in person at locations including Green Bay, Eau Claire, Waukesha, Madison, and La Crosse. A comprehensive criminal background investigation will be conducted.

Vision and hearing requirements, education, and other pre-employment standards apply, with details below.

• Candidates must meet all minimum employment standards for law enforcement as identified by the Law Enforcement Standards Board (LESB).
• Education:
  
  A two-year associate degree from an accredited technical college or a minimum of 60 college credits from an accredited university prior to starting at the State Patrol Academy. A maximum of 60 credits may be waived for prior training/experience evaluated by ACE. Transcripts must be uploaded with the application.
• Authorization to Work:
  United States citizenship is not required. The Wisconsin State Patrol does not sponsor work visas. Ability to work in the United States without sponsorship is required.
• Additional medical and physical requirements apply, including vision and hearing standards, and background checks.

Apply online by selecting “Apply for Job” and following the steps to create or access your account, then submit your application. Required documents include:

• Current resume
• Official or unofficial transcripts (unofficial are acceptable initially; official transcripts may be required later)
• Joint Services Transcript (JST) and DJ-LE-331 waiver documentation if credits are to be waived

Ensure transcripts are uploaded under Supporting Documentation. The online application includes 16 questions, including the 9 minimum requirements. An eligibility notice will be sent via email after submission, with the first review date for materials on January 16, 2026. Communications will be sent to the email associated with your WisDOT account.

Permanent classified state employees may apply as described. For questions about the online application, contact the Recruitment Coordinator. The Wisconsin State Patrol does not sponsor work visas.

Final date to receive applications: 11:59 PM on Sunday, February 15, 2026.