New to Law Enforcement
Take the first steps to becoming a Maine State Trooper.
Our Troopers come from all walks of life and many different parts of the country. Some started their professional careers as teachers or in the trades, while others had their eyes set on law enforcement from the start. Regardless, all Maine State Troopers come to the agency with the goal of protecting their community, challenging themselves, and making a difference.
If you’ve been considering a law enforcement career and are self-reliant, highly motivated, self-disciplined, and desire to give us your absolute best, then you may be just who we’re looking for.
Training
Requirements
At Maine State Troopers, we are committed to providing you with all the training you need to be successful in your career as a law enforcement officer. For those who are new to law enforcement, here is a breakdown of what you can expect during the training process:
18-Week Residential Basic Law Enforcement Program (BLETP)
The first phase of your training will consist of an 18-week Residential Basic Law Enforcement Program (BLETP). This program is designed to provide you with foundational knowledge and skills required for a career in law enforcement. Training takes place in Vassalboro, Maine.
6-Week Non-Residential Training Troop (RTT)
This program was created for officers who have already graduated from the BLETP or another certified police academy. This phase of training focuses on practical application and hands-on, scnerio-based experiences to further enhance your capabilities as a Maine State Trooper. As a non-residential academy, trainees may go home each night and will be expected to return in the morning. Recruits will be provided a take-home cruiser.
Field Training
Upon completion of the classroom and practical training phases, you will transition to Field Training. During this period, you will work in real-world situations under the guidance of experienced State Troopers, applying your knowledge and skills in a practical setting to prepare you for the demands of the job.
Schedule
The majority of training takes place Monday through Friday from 0800 to 1600. During RTT, a few extended evening hours will be required for trainings such as Firearms and EVOC Range. You will be informed about your schedule well in advance.
A career in the Maine State Police requires the ability to be independent and reliable. By providing a comprehensive training program that covers both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, we ensure that you are well-prepared to navigate any situations as it arises.
Take the First Step
For aspiring Troopers who have no experience in law enforcement, the first step is to attend the Basic Law Enforcement Training Academy (BLETP) in Vassalboro, Maine. Those who apply can be sponsored by Maine State Poilice to attend as a Maine State Trooper Cadet.
The next BLETP is open to all in-state and out-of-state candidates and the timeframe is from:
- January 2026 – May 2026
- August 2025 – December 2025
The application process for the summer BLETP beginning in August 2025 is open now through May 1, 2025.
Along with your application, you will need to pass the Physical Fitness Test. These are typically held at the Maine Criminal Justice Academy, and will test basic physical ability in timed challenges. To schedule a Fitness Test, please call or text 207-830-0665.
If you have any questions about the hiring or recruitment process, please contact the Maine State Police Training Unit at 207-830-0665 or email us at: recruiter.msp@maine.gov.
Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis. If you miss the deadline for the upcoming training class, you can still be hired and assigned meaningful work until the next training class. Please do not let these dates deter you from applying now.