So You Wanna Be a Texas DPS Trooper, Eh Partner?
Hold your horses there, buckaroo! Don't go strappin' on a ten-gallon hat and stetson just yet. There's more to becoming a Texas DPS Trooper than wranglin' tumbleweeds and longhorns (although, those skills might come in handy on a slow day).
This here guide will outline your path to becoming one of Texas' finest, from yeehaw rookie to full-fledged law enforcement legend.
First Up, You Gotta Have the Right Stuff (And By Stuff, We Mean Requirements)
Be a US citizen, at least 20 years old (gotta be able to buy that celebratory post-academy six-pack).
Clean background? Check. Felonies are a big no-no, partner.
Education? You got options! At least 60 credit hours of college or a two-year degree gets you in the door. Military service can also sub in for those hours.
Driver's license? A necessity. You can't pull over speeders without a car (duh).
Now We're Talkin': The Trooper Trials
Think you're tough? The DPS Physical Readiness Test will separate the wannabes from the real deal. Push-ups, sit-ups, a run around the Alamo (well, maybe not the Alamo) - it ain't child's play.
Written exam? Time to dust off those high school study skills. Don't worry, it ain't rocket science, but you gotta know your laws and procedures.
Polygraph, psych eval, and background investigation? Buckle up. Honesty and a good moral compass are key.
Oral board interview? Here's your chance to shine! Don't be all tongue-tied, tell 'em why you're the best darn trooper Texas has ever seen.
Boot Camp, Texas Style: The DPS Academy ♀️♂️
Welcome to your new digs for the next six months! Get ready for early mornings, intense training, and forged friendships that'll last a lifetime (or at least until your next patrol shift).
You'll learn everything from traffic enforcement to criminal justice, all while getting whipped into tip-top shape.
Hitting the Streets: Probationary Trooper Life
Fresh out of the academy? Don't worry, you won't be thrown to the wolves (coyotes are more likely in Texas). You'll be paired with a seasoned trooper who'll show you the ropes.
Be ready for anything! One minute you might be pullin' over a speeder, the next you could be assisting with a search and rescue.
The Takeaway: It Ain't Easy Being a Texas DPS Trooper, But It Sure Ain't Boring Either
So, is becoming a Texas DPS Trooper right for you? If you're lookin' for a challenge, a chance to serve your community, and a story to tell your grandkids (that doesn't involve wranglin' actual longhorns), then this might just be the perfect career path.
Just remember, with great power comes great responsibility, and maybe a few speeding tickets along the way.
Now get out there, partner, and make Texas proud!
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
