- Age  - Cadet applicants must be between the ages of 17 and 19 years of age to process, and between 18 and 20 years of age to be hired.
 
  - Must be a U.S. citizen (for more information regarding qualifications of US citizenship, please visit http://www.uscis.gov/us-citizenship)
 
  - Residency - Applicants do not need to be a Maryland resident to process. However, they must become a Maryland resident on the date of appointment as cadet 
 
  - Must have a high school diploma or a G.E.D.
 
  - Must possess a valid Driver's License in any state and a satisfactory driving record, current driving record cannot exceed 3 points, in the event you exceed this requirement please wait to apply until you are at or below 3 points
 
  - Must have a satisfactory driving record
 
  - Must be in excellent physical condition
 
  - Binocular visual acuity must be 20/20 with or without correction
 
  - Have a good reputation and sound moral character
 
  - Not have any current court orders relating to domestic violence
 
  - Be truthful in every stage of the application process  
 
An individual is ineligible for initial certification as a trooper or cadet if the individual has:
Illegally used a controlled dangerous substance, narcotic drug, or marijuana for any purpose within the 3 years before application for certification.