Nebraska State Patrol opens applications for new trooper class
Applicants have until March 31 to apply; next training academy begins July 6, 2026
Photo courtesy: Nebraska State Patrol.
Press release
LINCOLN, Neb. — Applications are now open for those interested in becoming a Nebraska State Trooper.
The Nebraska State Patrol is accepting applications through March 31 at NebraskaTroopers.com.
“A successful career as a Nebraska State Trooper is about more than your physical ability to do the job — it’s about your willingness to serve the community around you,” said Colonel Bryan Waugh, superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “We’re looking for driven individuals with a passion for helping others, and we’ll equip them with the skills to protect the great state of Nebraska.”
Troopers serve in a variety of roles across the state, including patrol, criminal investigations, K-9 handling, crash investigation, aviation, crisis negotiation, drone operations and hazardous materials response. Specialty units include SWAT, Carrier Enforcement, Bomb Squad, Executive Protection, the Training Academy, Mobile Field Force and the Husker Football Detail.
Starting pay is $33.75 per hour, or $70,195 annually, upon graduation from the NSP Training Academy. Recruits earn at least $28.85 per hour during training.
Benefits include retirement, health, vision, dental and life insurance, along with free college tuition for troopers and their dependents at University of Nebraska campuses, state colleges and community colleges.
Additional pay opportunities include overtime at 1.5 times base salary, $1 per hour shift differential for regular night assignments and a 2.5% increase for qualifying bilingual troopers.
The next recruit class begins July 6, 2026, and is scheduled to graduate Dec. 18, 2026. Recruits complete 24 weeks of academy training that includes hands-on scenarios and extensive academic instruction.
Applicants must be U.S. citizens and at least 21 years old by graduation. A high school diploma or GED is required.
More information about the hiring process, physical requirements and recruiter contacts is available at NebraskaTroopers.com.