Salary and Benefits

  • During the twenty-four (24) week Training Academy, recruits receive a salary of $1,300 bi-weekly, less meal expenses of approximately $280 bi-weekly.
  • Recruit medical expenses incurred during training are paid by the Division.
  • Upon appointment as a member of the Division, Troopers are eligible for health care coverage that includes medical, dental, prescription and vision benefits. Health care coverage is contributory in nature and payment of a co-share of the medical premium is required for participation in coverage. A state group life insurance plan is also available. Upon retirement, Division members are eligible for health insurance benefits with a required co-share equal to the premium co-share percentage applicable as of the date of retirement.
  • Upon appointment, uniforms and equipment are furnished by the Division. Troopers receive an annual clothing allowance of $750 for care and maintenance.
  • The starting salary for a trooper upon graduation from the Training Academy (excluding holiday, overtime and other incentive pay) is currently $70,761.00. There are five (5) incremental increases over a four (4) year period, capping the starting salary at $86,274.00
  • The average work week consists of forty-two (42) hours. Uniform troopers work a 3-day on / 3-day off schedule which rotates every six (6) weeks between day and night shifts.
  • To ensure the proper performance of law enforcement duties and obligations, the Division may direct and authorize overtime.
  • There are ten (10) official State holidays per year for which troopers are compensated.
  • Troopers will be eligible for vacation and sick leave pursuant to the Collective Bargaining Agreement, as well as leave provided pursuant to the Family Medical Leave Act.
  • Annual vacation for troopers are listed below:
    • 5 months to 1 year of service (13 working days)
    • 1 year to 10 years of service (21 working days)
    • 10 years or more of service (28 working days)
  • Upon completion of twenty-five (25) years of service, a Division member may retire and receive a pension of fifty percent (50%) of an average of their five (5) highest years of salary, with an additional two percent (2%) for each year after twenty-five (25) years of service, up to a maximum of sixty-five percent (65%). The pension is contributory in nature at a current rate of 8.75% and is provided pursuant to Rhode Island General Laws Chapter 42-28.