Ohio State Highway Patrol About Us

Patrol Auxiliary

The Ohio State Highway Patrol Auxiliary is an all-volunteer force which provides assistance to troopers in the course of their duties. Among the duties of an Auxiliary officer are crash scene and traffic stop assistance, traffic control, disaster relief and special detail support.

The OSHP Auxiliary was formed in 1942 when many commissioned troopers began entering the armed forces during World War II. At that time, membership was limited to the members of the American Legion which was largely made up of war veterans who were unlikely to be drafted into service.

After the war, the Auxiliary was a critical component of Ohio's Civil Defense Plan, with officers assigned to vital crossroads to assist with evacuation and convoy movement.

Today, Auxiliary members contribute thousands of hours in an assortment of functions. Each is required to log a minimum of 120 hours per year to remain active. Membership is no longer limited to American Legionaires, and the requirements to become an Auxiliary are as follows:

U.S. Citizen Ohio Resident with valid Ohio driver license Good physical condition Between ages 21-55 (except for retired OSHP officers) No prior felony convictions Availability for training and service Submit to and pass a background investigation Ability to read and write, and convey thoughts in a clear and concise manner Weight proportionate to height (OSHP standard plus 10 percent) Submit to and pass a polygraph examination

Applicants are required to pass a medical examination which must be conducted by a physician at the applicant's expense. Applicants must additionally pass written and physical tests, then complete OSHP Auxiliary training. Members are also required to conform to grooming standards and purchase a uniform. To inquire about a possible position in the OSHP Auxiliary, call your nearest Patrol post , e-mail OSPAux@dps.state.oh.us, or apply online here.