How to Become a Utah State Trooper: Career Guide with Captain Wade Breur
Captain Wade Breur
Utah Highway Patrol Officer
Quick Start Guide: Joining the Utah Highway Patrol (UHP)
What are the requirements to become a State Trooper in Utah? To join the UHP, you must be at least 21 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be a U.S. citizen. The process includes a physical fitness test, a background check, and roughly one year of comprehensive training through the police academy and field training. According to Captain Wade Breur, the most successful troopers prioritize community service and adaptability over financial gain.
The Reality of Law Enforcement Today
Recruitment is down, but opportunity is up. Captain Wade Breur has seen the industry change over his 30-year career. Currently, the Utah Highway Patrol sees fewer applicants than in decades past, which means they are actively looking for high-quality recruits who want to make a tangible difference.
Humble Beginnings: Wade started in construction but pivoted to law enforcement because he wanted a career with a deeper purpose.
Diverse Roles: Being a trooper isn't just about traffic stops. Captain Breur’s career included Governor's protective detail, academy instruction, and serving as a Public Information Officer.
Specialized Units: Once established, troopers can join elite teams such as Dive Teams, Interdiction Teams, Motorcycle Units, and Major Crimes Investigations.
The Roadmap: 1 Year from Applicant to Officer
Becoming a trooper is a marathon, not a sprint. Here is the typical timeline discussed in the episode:
The Application & Academy: If hired, you will attend the police academy (POST) to learn the legal and physical fundamentals of the job.
Field Training (FTO): After graduation, you spend months riding with veteran officers to apply academy lessons to real-world scenarios.
The Probationary Period: New troopers are closely mentored as they begin patrolling independently. Pro Tip: Wade recommends going on ride-alongs with multiple different agencies (City, County, and State) before applying to see which culture fits you best.
5 Actionable Steps to Prepare for the Badge
If you are considering a career in law enforcement, follow Captain Breur’s professional advice:
Research Thoroughly: Understand the difference between being a local police officer and a State Trooper.
Audit Your Motivations: Ask yourself if you are driven by service. "None of us get into this to get rich," says Breur.
Physical & Mental Prep: Start a fitness regimen early and prepare for the psychological demands of high-stress decision-making.
Connect with Recruits: Attend recruitment events and follow the UHP "Ride with the Hive" series on YouTube.
Focus on Emotional Intelligence: Law enforcement is 90% communication. Building rapport with the community is your most important tool.
Frequently Asked Questions: Law Enforcement Careers
Q: Do I need a college degree to join the Utah Highway Patrol?
A: While not strictly required (a high school diploma is the minimum), many recruits enter through community college law enforcement programs or have military backgrounds.
Q: How long is the training for a State Trooper?
A: From the start of the academy to finishing field training, the process takes approximately one year.
Q: What is the most important skill for a trooper?
A: Adaptability. No two days—or even two traffic stops—are the same. You must be able to switch gears instantly.
Watch the Full Interview with Captain Wade Breur
To hear the full story of Wade’s 30-year journey and his advice for the next generation of public safety officers, watch the episode:
Full Video Interview: Watch the Full Episode!
Official UHP Recruitment: highwaypatrol.utah.gov/join-uhp
Follow W2GS on Instagram: @wheretogetstarted
