Q&A for How to Become a California Highway Patrol Officer

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What's the first step if am a high school graduate?

Community Answer

Apply for the CHP Explorer program. It includes ride-alongs, helping with DUI checkpoints, hand-to-hand combat techniques, and other things that will prepare you for the CHP Academy.

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Question

Are there height and weight requirements for becoming a California Highway Patrol officer?

Community Answer

No. You just need to be in shape and able to pass their physical abilities test.

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Question

How will I be notified if I fail?

Community Answer

If you fail the PAT, you will know on the same day. The next day is the written test, and if you fail that you will know by mail in about 3 weeks. The next step is initial backgrounds; if they see something that fails you, you will know by phone in about 3 weeks.

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Question

What method do they use to inform applicants if they are accepted?

Conner Allen

Community Answer

Most likely email, or through the regular post. My father is a CHP officer and he got informed by email and mail.

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Question

Is age 40 to old to be an officer?

Community Answer

You must be between the ages of 20 and 35. The maximum age to be accepted to the CHP Academy is 35. You must be at least 21 by the end of your Cadet training.

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Question

Can I be part of CHP if I have 2 DUI's?

Community Answer

It depends upon the circumstances and how recent the DUI's were. You can talk to a recruiter for more information.

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Question

Will getting a 4 year degree at the college level increase my pay?

Community Answer

No, not directly. Look at the CHP pay scale on their website. It will increase your yearly bump in pay though.

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Question

If I pass the PAT but fail the written part, do I have to start over from the beginning?

Community Answer

Yes, if you fail either portion of the PAT or written test, you must begin the process again.

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Question

Does getting a criminal justice degree help qualify you to become a California state police officer?

Community Answer

A degree of any kind will make you a more desirable applicant and will qualify you for an added pay incentive. While it will help you in your job and eligibility for promotions, it is not necessary.

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Question

Can I still join the Explorer program if I'm 19?

Community Answer

Yes. You an enroll in the Explorer program until the age of 21.

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Question

If I do not pass one part of the testing, am I able to re-apply?

Community Answer

Yes. If you fail, you will be able re-apply.

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Question

Will a two year old speeding ticket prevent me from being accepted?

Community Answer

It depends on the circumstances of the ticket, and if you paid the ticket on time.

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Question

Do I need to be clean-shaven to be a California Highway Patrol Officer?

Community Answer

For a good first impression, arrive clean-shaven to the PAT and the written exam clean shaven.

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Question

Can I be a CHIP officer if I have a DUI?

Community Answer

No, you cannot.

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Question

I have 2 DUIs on my record. Can I become a CHP officer?

Community Answer

No, you must have a clean record to apply for CHP. Anything on your record will disqualify you for CHP.

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Question

Do you need to go to a shooting range to better your shooting skills? Do they test you for that?

Spaceship

Community Answer

You don’t need previous experience with firearms before joining the police force. During your time at the police academy, they will teach you how to safely handle firearms.

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Question

Can I become a California Highway Patrol Officer if I had knee surgery?

Spaceship

Community Answer

If the knee surgery does not hinder your physical fitness, you can still become a patrol officer. However, if your surgery hinders your physical fitness, then you will likely be disqualified from joining.

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