South Carolina Graduated Highway Patrol Class 132

Twenty-eight new troopers have joined the South Carolina Highway Patrol to help address ongoing state staffing needs.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Law Enforcement

South Carolina Graduated Highway Patrol Class 132

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The South Carolina Department of Public Safety officially welcomed 28 new officers into the ranks of the Highway Patrol. This graduation comes as the state seeks to fill vacancies across all 46 counties.

Why it matters

State studies recently identified persistent challenges with law enforcement retention and vacancies in South Carolina. The agency is utilizing increased pay and bonuses to bolster its workforce of roughly 800 troopers.

The state currently maintains an average law enforcement vacancy rate of 11%. New Highway Patrol recruits now earn a starting annual salary of more than $61,000.

The players

South Carolina Department of Public Safety

This agency is the state body responsible for law enforcement, traffic safety, and the administration of the South Carolina Highway Patrol.

The details

Recruits for Class 132 completed their training to address staffing demands, a priority following legislative approval of multiple pay raises for officers. The department has also implemented sign-on bonuses for personnel in high-need locations to ensure coverage for all 46 counties.

The graduation ceremony for Highway Patrol Class 132 took place on October 9, 2026.

Legal Context

This graduation follows a pattern set by the South Carolina state law enforcement pay raises, which aimed to increase agency competitiveness. It marks a continued effort to stabilize regional law enforcement staffing amidst a national trend of officer recruitment difficulties.

Residents across the state may see increased trooper presence on roadways as the department attempts to reduce the 11% vacancy rate. These additional officers are part of a strategic effort to improve public safety coverage in all 46 counties.

The takeaway

Maintaining adequate trooper levels is critical for state highway safety and emergency response efficiency. The state continues to focus on competitive compensation packages to ensure long-term workforce retention.