133 Cadets Graduate from California Highway Patrol Academy

New officers join one of the country's largest law enforcement agencies after rigorous training

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:48pm

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a California Highway Patrol badge repeated in a tight grid pattern, capturing the iconic symbol of law enforcement through a modern pop art lens.The graduation of 133 new CHP officers represents an important investment in California's public safety infrastructure, as they join the ranks of one of the country's largest and most respected law enforcement agencies.West Sacramento Today

In a swearing-in and badge pinning ceremony, 133 cadets graduated from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) Academy in West Sacramento after six months of intensive training. The new officers will now report to CHP Area offices across the state to begin their field training program.

Why it matters

The CHP is one of the largest law enforcement agencies in the United States, responsible for patrolling California's roads and highways. This graduation marks an important milestone as the new officers join the ranks and take on the responsibility of upholding public safety and trust in their communities.

The details

During their time at the CHP Academy, the cadets underwent over 1,275 hours of instruction in more than 40 law enforcement topics, including traffic enforcement, emergency vehicle operations, defensive tactics, and community policing. The curriculum exceeds the standards set by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST), preparing the officers to handle a wide range of calls they may face in their careers.

  • The graduation ceremony took place on April 11, 2026.
  • A new group of 160 cadets is set to arrive at the CHP's live-in Academy on April 20, 2026.

The players

Sean Duryee

CHP Commissioner, who spoke at the graduation ceremony and highlighted the values and responsibilities the new officers will uphold as they join the CHP.

California Highway Patrol (CHP)

One of the largest law enforcement agencies in the United States, responsible for patrolling California's roads and highways.

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What they’re saying

“Behind every badge lies a story of sacrifice, perseverance, and dedication. Today, we honor not only what these graduates have accomplished but also the responsibility they now bear as guardians of public safety across our state. As they join the ranks of the California Highway Patrol, they do so with a commitment to integrity, professionalism, and service – values that will guide them as they protect our roads, support our communities, and uphold the public's trust.”

— Sean Duryee, CHP Commissioner

What’s next

The new officers will report to one of the CHP's 102 Area offices across the state, where they will begin their field training program alongside experienced officers. As they advance through their careers, they will have opportunities to pursue specialized assignments within the department, including investigations, air operations, canine units, and commercial enforcement.

The takeaway

This graduation marks an important milestone for the CHP, as the new officers join the ranks of one of the country's largest and most respected law enforcement agencies. Their commitment to integrity, professionalism, and public service will be crucial in upholding the CHP's mission of providing the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security to the people of California.