Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the starting salary?

   Your salary, while at the Academy, is $2,673 monthly.

2. Will my salary increase upon successful completion of the Academy?

   As of 1/1/2012, upon successful completion of the Academy and completion of a six-month probation period, a first year Trooper's base salary is $57,708. See also the Sworn Salary Schedule PDF for more information. This document is in Adobe PDF format.

3. What kind of benefits will I have?

   Personal health and dental insurance are provided at a nominal cost. Also, basic life insurance and vision coverage are provided at no cost. Additional coverage for family members is available at group rates.

4. What about your retirement package?

   The Illinois State Police has a great retirement package. To qualify for pension benefits, an officer must be 50 years of age with 25 years of service, or 55 years of age with at least 20 years of service. A maximum retirement benefit of 80% of an officer's ending salary is earned after 26 years and 8 months of creditable service. A tax deferred compensation plan is also available, however, there is an annual maximum contribution limit.

5. What about vacation and sick time?

   During the first year of service, officers receive 2 weeks of paid vacation, one sick day a month and compensation for working any holiday. Additional vacation days are earned through service longevity.

6. How long is the Academy training?

   The academy is a 25 week, para-military environment.

7. Do I have to stay overnight at the Academy?

   Yes. During the training period, cadets are furnished lodging, meals and most necessary supplies and equipment. Most weekends, cadets are free to travel home.

8. Do I have to pay for my uniform or equipment as a cadet?

   Yes. The amount is approximately $500.

9. Do I get to decide where I will be assigned after completing the Academy?

   No. You must be willing to be assigned to any District throughout the State. District assignments will be made at a time and date to be determined by the Director of the Ilinois State Police.

10. Is there a maximum age requirement?

    Officers have a State mandated retirement age of 60 years.

11. Do I have to be a "road" officer, or could I start out working crime scenes or in other specialized areas?

    You must start your career as a Trooper with a Field Training Officer (FTO) on the road. There is a probationary period that all officers must complete with their FTO. After completion of two years in their original assignment location, officers may request a transfer to another area.

12. Does the Illinois State Police offer continuing education options?

    Yes. Officers desiring to continue their education may apply for department funded tuition reimbursement.

13. Does the Illinois State Police have a Fast Track program?

    Not at this time. Should the Fast Track program start again, a notice will be posted on the front page of this website.

14. What are your vision standards?

    Click here to view our vision standards