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Basic and Prior Certified Officers for the 57th Academy

Closed: July 19th 2026

  • Pay is reflected on Fiscal Year 2027 (Beginning June 19, 2026)
  • Pay does not include any additional pay such as per diem, shift differential pay and potential benefits.
  • Hiring Bonus For Prior Certified Officers Received Upon Academy Graduation
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$5,000 Hiring Bonus

for Prior Certified Officers

Advanced Pay for Years of Service

Trooper 2 Salary Information:

Starting pay = $71,406.40

2 Years = $74,609.60

3 Years = $77,833.60

5+ Years =  $81,036.80

10 STEP SELECTION PROCESS

The selection process for the State of Iowa requires successfully completing ALL of the 10 phases shown below, including attending and graduating from the DPS Academy. Failing any step will result in elimination from the process.  Applicants are encouraged to produce the best test scores during each of the test phases so it allows the greatest opportunity for a Conditional Offer and Final Offer of Employment.

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Benefits & FAQ

Learn about benefits provided by Iowa DPS and some answers to frequently asked questions.

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DPS Academy: TRAIN THE BEST, TO BE THE BEST

Our goal at the Iowa Department of Public Safety is to develop well trained, self disciplined individuals who are mentally mature, physically sound, and emotionally stable. Our intense training program is designed to keep you and the public safe. From the moment you walk into the academy until the day you hit the streets, you will be professionally trained and equipped to be successful throughout your career. We earn our reputation at the Iowa Department of Public Safety.

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DIVISIONS:
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Division of Criminal Investigation seal
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JOIN DPS IN A PROFESSIONAL CAREER

There are so many ways to help the community and be a part of a great team here at Iowa DPS. Explore the opportunities we have to offer in a professional career.

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SPECIAL ASSIGNMENTS

EXECUTIVE PROTECTION | TRAVEL | EVENTS

We provide opportunities to work within the community at some of Iowa’s most spectacular events and venues. Air Wing, Chaplain Program, Crisis Negotiators, Honor Guard, Public Resource Officer Unit, Technical Collision Investigation (TI) Unit, K-9 Unit, Commercial Motor Vehicle Unit Program, Narcotics, Criminal Investigation, and so much more. Explore what we have to offer, and find your calling.

Commercial Motor Vehicle Unit

We are looking for driven people committed to keeping the people of Iowa safe. The Iowa Department of Public Safety offers endless opportunities for a fulfilling career. Explore the possibilities and choose your path.

WE ARE HERE TO SERVE THE STATE OF IOWA

We proudly wear the Iowa Nice badge and working with the Iowa community is our passion. We aren’t serving strangers, we are helping friends, neighbors, fans, and family. You won’t find another community as friendly and supportive as the one we have here in Iowa.

DIVISION OF NARCOTICS ENFORCEMENT

You have a chance to make a difference in your community here at Iowa DPS. We are determined to clean the drugs off our streets. We target major drug related crimes and partner with outside state and Federal agencies. If you are dedicated and determined to make a difference, this is the Division for you.

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DIVISION OF CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION

Our opportunities within the DCI allows you to investigate the highest profile crimes across the State of Iowa. Our Criminal Investigation unit is the gold standard in solving crimes working with local and federal agencies. The options are endless, and you will be supported every step of the way to help achieve your goals.

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State Fire Marshal’s Office

At Iowa DPS we offer opportunities you won’t find anywhere else, there is always room for professional growth. If you are looking for a challenge, seeking success, Iowa DPS is home.

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WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP AT IOWA DPS

We have so many amazing and inspiring success stories here at Iowa DPS, and we are looking to add even more. See how you can get started in this exciting career. Great pay, great benefits, and work anywhere in the State. Take the first step to a rewarding and fulfilling career.

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BE ELITE

See why the Iowa DPS is the most respected, honored, and admired law enforcement agency in the State.

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OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN THE IOWA DPS

There are so many ways to help the community and be a part of a great team here at Iowa DPS. Explore the opportunities we have to offer in a professional career.

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Department of Public Safety
DIVISIONS:
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Division of Narcotics Enforcement seal
Division of Inteligence and Fusion Center seal
Division of Criminal Investigation seal
Administrative Services seal

INSTAGRAM

Just a few more hours to apply for our 56th DPS Basic and Certified Academy! Job posting will close at midnight tonight, so make your dreams come true with a new career with the Iowa State Patrol. Apply at DPSCareers.com
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Just a few more hours to apply for our 56th DPS Basic and Certified Academy!...

Meet the Graduate - Trooper Dustin Wickett (ISP #185) recently graduated from the 54th DPS Basic Academy and is assigned to District 2 (Osceola). Originally from Milo, Iowa, he graduated from Southeast Warren High School, where he competed in football, wrestling, track, and baseball. Trooper Wickett began his law enforcement career with the Chariton Police Department. He was certified by the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy and served there from 2010 to 2025. During that time, he also worked part-time for the Lucas County Sheriff’s Office. In his free time, Trooper Wickett enjoys spending time with his wife and watching his two children participate in activities such as football, wrestling, baseball, and competitive dance. He also likes strength training, fishing, and following various forms of auto racing. He is a fan of Iowa Hawkeye football and wrestling, the Kansas City Royals, and the Philadelphia Eagles. Trooper Wickett is grateful for the opportunity to serve with the Iowa State Patrol and looks forward to making a positive impact in the community he serves! Congratulations, Trooper Wickett!
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Meet the Graduate -

Trooper Dustin Wickett (ISP #185) recently graduated from the 54th DPS...

Last weekend to apply for our 56th Basic and Certified Academy! Finish the Academy in May, and you could be working the 2027 Iowa State Fair concerts, college football games, and other community events. Apply at DPSCareers.com
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Last weekend to apply for our 56th Basic and Certified Academy! Finish the Academy in...

Meet the Graduate! Trooper Caleb Stoltz (ISP #240) recently graduated from the 54th DPS Basic Academy and is now assigned to District 11 (Cedar Rapids). Trooper Stoltz graduated from Van Buren County Community High School in Keosauqua, Iowa, and went on to attend Ellsworth Community College, where he wrestled and studied Criminal Justice. Trooper Stoltz joined the Marine Corps and was stationed at Camp Pendleton with Combat Logistics Battalion 11. He is also a certified Journeyman Plumber and Pipefitter and was previously employed with American Ordinance at the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant. In his spare time, he enjoys long-range shooting, hunting, fishing, and going on hikes with his wife. He also likes volunteering for Pheasants Forever and Serve Outdoors in his community. Trooper Stoltz is excited to serve as a Trooper for the Iowa State Patrol and is committed to keeping the community safe. Welcome to the Iowa State Patrol, Trooper Stoltz!
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Meet the Graduate!

Trooper Caleb Stoltz (ISP #240) recently graduated from the 54th DPS Basic...

Meet the Graduate! Trooper Aaron Sanchez (ISP #152) recently graduated from the 54th DPS Basic Academy and is assigned to District 8 (Mason City). Trooper Sanchez grew up in Mason City and is an Iowa State University graduate. Trooper Sanchez was previously a Deputy with the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office and the Cerro Gordo County Sheriff’s Office. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, snowmobiling, and spending quality time with his family. Congratulations, Trooper Sanchez!
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Meet the Graduate!

Trooper Aaron Sanchez (ISP #152) recently graduated from the 54th DPS Basic...

Last day to apply for our 56th Basic and Certified Academy is July 19th! Find out more or talk to a recruiter about your future with the Iowa State Patrol at DPSCareers.com
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Last day to apply for our 56th Basic and Certified Academy is July 19th! Find...

Meet the Graduate! Trooper Cade Perkins (ISP #513) recently graduated from the 54th DPS Basic Academy and is now assigned to District 16 (Capitol). His parents homeschooled him, and he later attended college, where he pursued a bachelor's degree in kinesiology with a focus on business and sports management. After discovering the Iowa State Patrol, Trooper Perkins paused his college studies to pursue a career with the Patrol. He and his brother, Trooper Chase Perkins, joined the 54th Academy together and graduated with their class. In his spare time, Trooper Perkins enjoys reading, shooting, MMA, tumbling, and staying active through sports. He is also passionate about competing in American Ninja Warrior. Trooper Perkins is excited to serve with the Iowa State Patrol and is committed to promoting road safety. Congratulations, Trooper Perkins!
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Meet the Graduate!

Trooper Cade Perkins (ISP #513) recently graduated from the 54th DPS Basic...

Meet the Graduate! Trooper Chase Perkins (ISP #529) recently graduated from the 54th DPS Basic Academy alongside his brother, Trooper Cade Perkins, and is assigned to District 16 (Capitol). Originally from Madrid, Iowa, Trooper Perkins was homeschooled until he attended DMACC, later transferring to Iowa State University for pre–Veterinary Medicine. He grew up on a farm and worked at a swine research facility at Iowa State before joining the patrol, and has been married for almost a year. In his spare time, he enjoys working with horses, hunting, fishing, boxing, working out, and staying active through the sport of cowboy mounted shooting. Trooper Perkins is also involved in his local county fair, volunteering every year to help run the horse shows. He is excited to serve as a trooper for the Iowa State Patrol and is committed to supporting efforts to ensure road safety. Congratulations, Trooper Perkins!
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Meet the Graduate!

Trooper Chase Perkins (ISP #529) recently graduated from the 54th DPS Basic...

Sworn Officer Positions

Application process is closed.

Next application process coming January 2026

To apply for a sworn officer position, please complete the link below.

Peace Officer Candidate (Non-Sworn)

Application process is closed.

To apply for a Peace Officer Candidate (non-sworn) position, please complete the link below.

Civilian Positions

If you are interested in working with Iowa DPS in a civilian role, please visit the link below.

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