Current Salary Breakdown
Up to 15 years of certified law enforcement service time (in-state or out-of-state experience) will be verified for possible higher starting pay.
| Ranks | Requirements | Base Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Officer Trainee (Non-Certified) | High School Diploma or GED & 21 years of age | $58,508 |
| Certified Officer with less than 18 months of active law enforcement experience in South Carolina | High School Diploma or GED & 21 years of age; Must complete STP Special Basic Training | $59,386 |
| Officer First Class | Serve 18 months in SCDPS LEO classification or 18 months Certified Law Enforcement Service Time as defined by SCDPS Policy | $60,263 |
| Senior Officer | Serve 3 years in SCDPS LEO classification or 3 years of Certified Law Enforcement Service Time as defined by SCDPS policy | $61,733 |
| Lance Corporal | Serve 5 years in SCDPS LEO classification or 5 years Certified Law Enforcement Service Time as defined by SCDPS policy | $66,055 |
| Lance Corporal (+3 Years) | Serve 3 years as an SCDPS Lance Corporal or 8 years Certified Law Enforcement Service Time as defined by SCDPS policy | $68,695 |
| Master Officer | Serve 10 years in SCDPS LEO classification or 10 years Certified Law Enforcement Service Time as defined by SCDPS policy. | $71,444 |
| Master Officer (+3 Years) | Serve 3 years as an SCDPS Master Officer or 13 years Certified Law Enforcement Service Time as defined by SCDPS policy. | $75,016 |
| Master Officer (+5 Years) | Serve 5 years as an SCDPS Master Officer or 15 years Certified Law Enforcement Service Time as defined by SCDPS policy. | $78,766 |
Benefits & Rewards
If you are seeking employment in a fast paced, diverse environment, while working outdoors and interacting with the public, applying to be an STP officer could be one of the most rewarding decisions you will ever make.
Benefits Package
- South Carolina State Employee Benefits Package
- Take-Home Vehicle
- All Uniforms and Equipment Provided
- SC Police Officer Retirement Benefits & Salary:
- Police Officers Retirement System (PORS) Handbook
- Transfer and purchase past military and public service time to retire early!
- Disability Retirement Protection


