Ride-along program offers sneak peek into jobs of Ohio state troopers

From OHIO STATE HIGHWAY PATROL

The Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) is, once again, offering the opportunity to ride with an on-duty trooper to see if people have what it takes to join the ranks.

The patrol’s ride-along program is an immersive, frontline experience designed to give interested recruits a real-world look at life as an Ohio state trooper. Participants won’t just hear about the job – they will ride alongside a seasoned trooper during their choice of a day, afternoon, or night shift, and experience what it’s like to respond to emergency calls for service, conduct traffic stops, and engage with and serve the public.

“Choosing a career with the patrol is a life-changing decision,” said Major Michael D. Kemmer, office of training, recruitment, and professional operations commander. “Our ride-along program delivers an authentic look into the challenging and profoundly rewarding work our troopers do every single day.”

The ride-along program is specifically geared toward individuals who are interested in pursuing a career with the patrol. To be eligible for a ride-along, applicants must:

  • Hold a valid driver’s license
  • Be age 18 – 39
  • Participate in a brief interview with the post commander before the ride-along

Anyone interested in participating in a ride-along is encouraged to contact their local Ohio State Highway Patrol post. Contact information for all posts can be found here. More information regarding the ride-along program can be found here.