State Trooper Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield State Trooper facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which BAC level is the legal per se limit for DUI for non-commercial drivers aged 21 or older in all U.S. states? → 0.08%
2. Under what circumstances can a state trooper conduct an inventory search of a towed vehicle? → When the vehicle is being lawfully impounded, following standardized department procedures
3. A trooper encounters a mentally ill subject who is armed with a pipe and making erratic movements. Which approach best reflects current best practices? → Attempt de-escalation using time, distance, and communication while assessing the threat
4. What does the term "Use of Force Continuum" refer to in the context of state trooper training? → A systematic escalation of force options
5. A memo states: 'Only supervisors may authorize overtime. Sergeant Hill authorized overtime for the night shift.' What can be logically concluded? → Sergeant Hill is a supervisor
6. Which of the following is an example of hearsay that should be clearly attributed in a report? → The witness stated that a bystander told her the car ran a red light.
7. What is the purpose of a 'field sobriety test' during a DUI stop? → To establish probable cause for a DUI arrest
8. What is the 'SIPDE' method of defensive driving? → Scan, Identify, Predict, Decide, Execute -- a systematic approach to hazard management
9. What is the primary purpose of state troopers conducting a field sobriety test during a DUI stop? → To assess the driver's impairment level
10. A trooper arrives at an accident scene where a driver is unconscious and alcohol containers are visible in the vehicle. Regarding a blood draw: → A warrant is generally required unless a recognized exigency exists
11. What is 'testilying' and why is it a serious ethical violation? → Officers providing false testimony or exaggerating facts to secure convictions
12. What is the role of the 'elements of the crime' in a police report? → To ensure the report documents all legal requirements needed for prosecution
13. When must a trooper stop applying force during an arrest? → As soon as the suspect complies or the threat has ceased
14. You stop a driver and discover a small amount of marijuana in a state where recreational use is legal. The driver has no other violations. What should you do? → Verify the amount is within the legal limit and proceed accordingly under state law
15. On a standard USGS topographic map, what does a contour interval of 20 feet mean? → Each contour line represents a 20-foot change in elevation
16. Which combination of physical symptoms is most associated with stimulant drug intoxication (e.g., cocaine or methamphetamine)? → Elevated heart rate, dilated pupils, and heightened alertness
17. A trooper discovers evidence of a different crime while executing a valid search warrant. Can the evidence be seized? → Yes, under the plain view doctrine if the criminal nature is immediately apparent
18. What is the legal standard for an arrest without a warrant? → Probable cause that a crime has been committed
19. What is the primary purpose of state troopers providing security at public events? → To ensure the safety of event participants and attendees.
20. Which federal agency is the primary authority responsible for enforcing laws and regulations governing controlled substances? → Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
21. While patrolling a rural highway at night, you observe a vehicle weaving between lanes but maintaining speed. What is your FIRST action? → Follow the vehicle for a short distance to confirm impaired driving behavior
22. What is the purpose of using chronological order in a police report narrative? → To present events in the sequence they occurred for clarity and accuracy
23. What is the primary purpose of a state trooper conducting surveillance during an investigation? → To gather information discreetly to aid the investigation.
24. Cocaine is a stimulant drug derived from the leaves of which plant? → Coca plant
25. During a routine traffic stop for speeding, when is a State Trooper required to read the Miranda Rights to the driver? → Only if the driver is taken into custody and is being interrogated.
26. What does 'APB' stand for in law enforcement? → All Points Broadcast
27. What should state troopers do when encountering a crime scene with injured victims? → Provide immediate medical assistance and request additional resources
28. A witness to a robbery provides a key statement. What is the most effective and legally sound method for including this statement in your report? → Record the witness's exact words within quotation marks.
29. A trooper is dispatched to a domestic disturbance. Upon arrival, one party has visible injuries. Under mandatory arrest laws, the trooper MUST: → Arrest the primary aggressor regardless of whether the victim requests it
30. A trooper is first to arrive at a multi-vehicle crash with reported injuries. The FIRST action should be to: → Assess the scene for hazards, call for EMS if not already en route, and render first aid