Requirements & Standards

The Department of Safety, Division of State Police, requires candidates to meet the basic standards below to be eligible for employment.

Age/Citizenship

At least 21 years of age and a U.S. citizen either prior to or on the scheduled date of examination administration.

At least 20/100 vision in each eye uncorrected; corrected to 20/40 (near vision) and 20/30 (distant vision) in each eye. Hearing sufficient to perform essential job functions. See our complete Vision and Hearing requirements.

Police Officer Certification

Must be able to obtain police officer certification within the timeframe established by the New Hampshire Police Standards and Training Council. Must maintain police officer certification throughout tenure of service.

Residency

Must be willing to accept employment anywhere in the state. With offers of employment, candidates will be assigned a Troop area. Requests will be considered.

License/Registration

Must obtain a New Hampshire driver's license and registration within 60 days of establishing residency.

Tattoos

Allowed on forearms up to the wrist but must be covered. Prohibited on the head, neck, face, or hands. See our complete Tattoo Policy.

Character

A history of criminal or unethical behavior will cause an applicant to be ineligible for further consideration. See our complete Automatic Disqualifiers.

Education and Experience

A candidate with no experience must have an Associate degree or 60 credit hours from a recognized college; or a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent, with two years of law enforcement and/or military experience.