The 7-Point Star Badge & California Uniform Codes
The California Highway Patrol uniform is one of the most recognizable law enforcement silhouettes in the western United States:
- The 7-Point Star Badge: Unlike eastern 5-point stars or eagle shields, the CHP wears a distinctive 7-point gold star symbolizing character, integrity, knowledge, honor, courtesy, judgment, and loyalty.
- Khaki & Forest Green Combination: High-density poly-wool khaki shirts with embroidered CHP shoulder patches, paired with deep forest green trousers and gold seam piping.
- The Blue Campaign Hat: Made of midnight blue fur felt or straw, featuring a gold-braided acorns cord for officers and silver for sergeants.
- Duty Boots & Leather: High-gloss Clarino or polished basketweave leather Sam Browne duty rig, Safariland holster, and Smith & Wesson M&P9 2.0 duty firearm.
The 28-Week West Sacramento Residential Academy
The CHP operates its own standalone POST-certified academy in West Sacramento, California. Unlike commuter academies where recruits return home in the evenings, CHP cadets live on campus from Sunday evening through Friday afternoon:
- Physical Readiness: Intensive daily dawn physical training including obstacle courses, tactical track runs, and swimming rescue drills.
- Emergency Vehicle Operations (EVOC): Renowned high-speed pursuit driving tracks, skid pans, and precision vehicle manipulation training.
- Weapons & Tactics: Hundreds of hours of tactical marksmanship, low-light combat shooting, active shooter response, and defensive tactics.
Cadet Explorer Program for High Schoolers & Students
Young men and women between the ages of 15 and 20 can join the CHP Explorer Program at local area offices across California. Explorers train alongside active officers, participate in ride-alongs, compete in statewide law enforcement tactical competitions, and receive priority mentorship for entry into the CHP Academy upon turning 20.