Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the starting salary?
Your salary, while at the Academy, is approximately $3,000 monthly ($36,000 yearly). However, cadets are paid overtime, which brings their salary to approximately $42,160 yearly.
2. Will my salary increase upon successful completion of the Academy?
Yes. As of 1/1/2007, a first year Trooper's base salary will be $48,192 yearly. This amount does not include overtime.
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 26 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?
No. Uniforms and equipment, such as your weapon, are provided at no cost to officers prior to academy graduation. An annual clothing/dry cleaning allowance is also provided. After reporting to their district of assignment, officers will also be issued a fully equipped squad car, with department paid fuel and service.
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 are made around the 13th week of academy training. Cadets request their top 3 preferences, and if possible they will be assigned to one of their 3 choices.
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.
updated 06-10-2005