Ed. Note: The following press release is courtesy of the California Highway Patrol. 

California Highway Patrol officials are now accepting online applications for the position of officer on a continuous basis, with a goal of hiring 600 cadets per year, officials said Wednesday.

“A career in law enforcement can be an extremely rewarding and exciting opportunity,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “We are looking for highly motivated individuals who mirror the diverse makeup of California and have a passion for public service to join our ranks.”

A career with the CHP can be filled with variety, according to officials. In addition to traditional patrol duties, the CHP offers opportunities to join specialized units throughout the state, such as air operations, dignitary protection, computer crimes investigations, vehicle theft task forces, homeland security operations, and commercial vehicle inspection programs.

“We are committed to hiring the best and the brightest men and women to serve the people of California and its visitors,” added Commissioner Farrow. “There has never been a better time than now to take that next step and join one of the nation’s largest statewide law enforcement agencies and make a difference in the community in which you serve.”

By accepting applications on a continuous basis, qualified prospective candidates will not have to wait to submit their application and begin the process toward a rewarding career, according to officials. A candidate must be a U.S. citizen between the ages of 20 and 35, possess a high school diploma, and be able to pass an extensive physical and background check.

 Those interested in pursuing a future career as a CHP officer are encouraged to click here for additional information, including testing dates throughout California.