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Basic and Prior Certified Officers for the 56th Academy

Closes: 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

Meet the Graduate! Trooper Toby Mosher (ISP #507) recently graduated from the 54th DPS Basic Academy and is now assigned to District 2 (Osceola). Trooper Mosher grew up in Clarke County and graduated from Clarke Community High School in 2019. He started his construction company shortly after graduating and ran the business for six years before joining the Iowa State Patrol. Trooper Mosher is a licensed private pilot and enjoys giving people rides in his airplane in his spare time. He and his wife, Caitlin, spend their free time flying around the state and trying different restaurants. Aside from flying, he likes to spend time with family and go to the lake on weekends. Trooper Mosher is excited to serve as an Iowa State Trooper. Welcome to the Iowa State Patrol, Trooper Mosher!
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Meet the Graduate!

Trooper Toby Mosher (ISP #507) recently graduated from the 54th DPS Basic...

We hope everyone enjoyed their 4th of July Holiday with family, friends, and fireworks! What better way to end the long weekend with an opportunity at a new, rewarding career. Applications for the 55th Basic and Certified Academy are now open for just two more weeks! Don't put off your freedom to choose your new career any longer. Apply at DPSCareers.com today!
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We hope everyone enjoyed their 4th of July Holiday with family, friends, and fireworks! What...

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As we celebrate the Fourth of July and commemorate America's 250th anniversary, we wish everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday with family and friends. The Department of Public Safety offices are closed Friday, July 3rd. Whether you're traveling, attending a parade, or enjoying fireworks, make safety part of your celebration. Have a happy and safe holiday!
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As we celebrate the Fourth of July and commemorate America's 250th anniversary, we wish everyone...

Iowa State Troopers have some of the best benefits in the State of Iowa. 🚔Take Home Car 💲Trooper 1 pay starting at $60,632 💲Trooper 2 pay starting at $71,406 🌟Normal Retirement age is 55 with Peace Officer Retirement providing a lifetime benefit 💵Retirement Investors Club option to supplement your pension Head to DPSCareers.com to read more about pay, benefits and to contact a recruiter with any questions. Applications being accepted into the 56th Basic and Certified Academy until July 19th, 2026!
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Iowa State Troopers have some of the best benefits in the State of Iowa.
🚔Take...

Trooper Michael Miller (ISP #292) recently graduated from the 54th DPS Basic Academy and is now assigned to District 2 (Osceola). Trooper Miller graduated from Simpson College in 2011 with a degree in accounting. He moved to Africa shortly afterwards, where he worked for a charitable organization until moving back home to Iowa with his family in 2022. Outside of work, Trooper Miller spends his free time with his wife and 5 children, mostly on their farm outside of Indianola. He enjoys anything outdoors, including biking, hiking, and camping, and keeps busy with any DIY project he can find. Congratulations, Trooper Miller, and welcome to the Iowa Department of Public Safety!
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Trooper Michael Miller (ISP #292) recently graduated from the 54th DPS Basic Academy and is...

Meet the Graduate! Trooper William Markle (ISP #451) recently graduated from the 54th DPS Certified Academy and is now assigned to District 1 (Des Moines). He graduated from West Marshall High School and previously served with the Marshalltown Police Department for three years. Trooper Markle got married last August, and he and his wife are expecting their first child in October. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, golfing, and being outdoors. Trooper Markle is excited to serve with the Iowa State Patrol and is committed to supporting efforts to ensure road safety. Congratulations, Trooper Markle!
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Meet the Graduate!

Trooper William Markle (ISP #451) recently graduated from the 54th DPS Certified...

Meet the Graduate! Trooper Travis Lutteke (ISP #229) recently graduated from the 54th DPS Basic Academy and is assigned to District 8 (Mason City). Trooper Lutteke graduated from United South Central High School in Wells, Minnesota. He then moved to Calmar, Iowa, to attend Northeast Iowa Community College and graduated with an AAS Degree in Automotive Technology. Trooper Lutteke’s top priorities at home are his wife and four kids (soon to be five). He enjoys spending time with them by going on bike rides, taking them to water parks, and having movie nights together. In his spare time, he enjoys outdoor activities such as hunting and doing DIY projects. He is committed to maintaining the safety of Iowa’s roads and communities. Congratulations and welcome to the Iowa State Patrol, Trooper Lutteke!
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Meet the Graduate!

Trooper Travis Lutteke (ISP #229) 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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