Golden State Today

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has reported a significant increase in applications, witnessing a 104% jump compared to the year 2022. The state continues to experience high volumes of individuals interested in joining the CHP, with a total of 7,615 applications received since January 2024.

Governor Gavin Newsom shared updated data from the CHP, revealing an increasing trend of people applying to join the nation's largest public-facing state law enforcement agency. In comparison to the same period in 2023 and 2022, which saw 5,803 and 3,732 applications respectively, the last four months have seen an impressive increase in applicants.

"The officers of the California Highway Patrol are the best of the best, committing daily to public service and public safety. I encourage more Californians to answer the call to serve their neighborhoods and continue helping build community-oriented bridges across California," Governor Newsom said.

CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee emphasized that recruitment for the CHP is not merely about filling vacant positions. "It’s about finding individuals who embody our professional values and are passionate about a career dedicated to serving the public,” he stated. “The surge in interest reflects not only a desire to serve but also a recognition of the noble calling of policing.”

In line with fulfilling its multi-year campaign goal to recruit 1,000 new CHP officers from diverse communities across the state, over 300 cadets have been sworn in as officers this year. To accommodate this increased interest, multiple Academy classes are being held simultaneously for the first time in Department history. Three more classes are set to complete training within this year, with the next graduation scheduled for July 12, 2024.

With over 6,500 sworn officers assigned across California, CHP stands as the largest public-facing state law enforcement agency in America.

Since launching its CHP 1000 recruitment campaign along with other recent recruitment efforts and hiring investments, the CHP reports an average of approximately 1,900 applicants per month since the beginning of the year.

California has been investing in expanded resources and personnel since 2019 to combat crime, assist local governments in hiring more police, and enhance public safety. In 2023, as part of California's Real Public Safety Plan, Governor Newsom announced a record investment to fight organized retail crime in state history. This includes a yearly increase of 310% in proactive operations targeting organized retail crime and special operations across the state to improve public safety.