What we do 

The Minnesota State Patrol (MSP) provides for an exciting and meaningful career that goes beyond the highway.  

Today, our nearly 600 state troopers help create safe, efficient movement of traffic on Minnesota’s roadways. They do this through assistance, education and enforcement.  

Our troopers also investigate and reconstruct serious crashes, conduct flight patrols and search-and-rescue missions, assist other law enforcement agencies, investigate vehicle crimes and serve as vital components of the state’s homeland security efforts. 

With its 30x30 ​initiative, the Minnesota State Patrol strives to be 30 percent female by the year 2030. 

Types of trooper employment 

MSP offers two separate trooper employment opportunities: Traditional and Law Enforcement Training Opportunity (LETO). Both are MSP sworn positions and are only offered as full-time positions. You may only apply for one of these options. 

Traditional option 

The traditional option is for those who are, or will be, Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) licensed.  

Visit the Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) website for more information about how you can become an officer. For out-of-state law enforcement officers and military personnel, the POST Board also has information about reciprocity licensing exams. 

LETO option 

The LETO program is designed for applicants with no previous law enforcement experience and who have a two- or four-year degree.  

More information 

Please review the Traditional and LETO postings below for additional details. We have also compiled a list of frequently asked questions about the State Patrol trooper application process. 

Postings 

• 2024 LETO Posting​ 

• 2024 Traditional Posting