The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) is the primary statewide law enforcement agency in Missouri. Established in 1931, the agency is responsible for maintaining traffic safety, enforcing state laws, and providing specialized services like water patrol and criminal investigations. Whether you need to request a crash report, take a driver’s exam, or check road conditions, understanding how the MSHP operates can help you find the information you need quickly.
The Role of the Missouri State Highway Patrol
The MSHP is a division of the Missouri Department of Public Safety. Its primary mission is to provide professional law enforcement services to help protect the lives and property of those using Missouri’s highway system. While they are best known for traffic enforcement, their duties extend far beyond the road.
The agency is divided into several specialized divisions and nine regional “Troops.” These Troops are responsible for specific geographic areas of the state, ensuring that help is never too far away. From the Water Patrol Division to the Division of Drug and Crime Control, the MSHP handles a wide variety of public safety concerns.
How to Contact the MSHP
Knowing how to reach the Missouri State Highway Patrol is essential for both emergencies and general inquiries. For life-threatening emergencies or to report an immediate danger on the road, you should always dial 911. However, for non-emergency situations, the MSHP provides specific contact methods.
The MSHP maintains a cellular emergency hotline. You can dial *55 from your mobile phone to reach the nearest Highway Patrol headquarters. This line is specifically intended for reporting motorists in need of assistance, aggressive driving, or suspicious activity on Missouri highways.
Troop Headquarters Locations
The state is divided into nine regional districts, labeled Troop A through Troop I. Each has its own headquarters to manage local operations:
- Troop A: Lee’s Summit (Serving the Kansas City area)
- Troop B: Macon (Serving Northeast Missouri)
- Troop C: Weldon Spring (Serving the St. Louis area)
- Troop D: Springfield (Serving Southwest Missouri)
- Troop E: Poplar Bluff (Serving Southeast Missouri)
- Troop F: Jefferson City (Serving Central Missouri)
- Troop G: Willow Springs (Serving South Central Missouri)
- Troop H: St. Joseph (Serving Northwest Missouri)
- Troop I: Rolla (Serving East Central Missouri)
Obtaining Missouri Crash Reports
One of the most common reasons citizens contact the MSHP is to obtain a copy of an accident or crash report. These documents are vital for insurance claims and legal records. The Patrol Records Division manages these requests and provides a few different ways to access them.
To request a report, you will generally need the date of the accident, the county where it occurred, and the names of the parties involved. Note that there is typically a small fee associated with obtaining official copies of these records.
Steps to Request a Report Online
- Visit the official MSHP website and navigate to the “Statistical Analysis Center” or “Patrol Records” section.
- Use the online search tool to locate the crash by date and location.
- Follow the prompts to pay the required fee using a credit or debit card.
- Download and print the official report for your records.
Requesting a Report by Mail
If you prefer to receive a report via mail, you can send a written request to the MSHP headquarters in Jefferson City. You should include a self-addressed stamped envelope and a check or money order for the fee. It is often helpful to call the Records Division first to confirm the exact cost of your specific report.
Driver Examination and Licensing
The MSHP is responsible for the administration of driver’s license examinations across the state. While the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) issues the actual license, the Highway Patrol conducts the written and driving tests to ensure all drivers meet safety standards.
Examination centers are located throughout the state, often within or near Troop headquarters or local government buildings. It is important to check the specific hours for your local testing site, as many operate on a first-come, first-served basis, while others may require appointments for road tests.
What to Bring to Your Driver’s Exam
To ensure a smooth testing process, you must bring the correct documentation. If you are a first-time driver, you will generally need the following:
- Proof of name, date of birth, and place of birth (such as a birth certificate).
- Social Security Number.
- Proof of Missouri residential address.
- A vehicle that is properly registered and in good working condition for the road test.
- Proof of financial responsibility (auto insurance) for the testing vehicle.
Criminal Record and Background Checks
The MSHP Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division serves as the central repository for Missouri’s criminal history records. Individuals and employers often use this service to conduct background checks for employment, housing, or personal reasons.
There are two main types of background checks: name-based and fingerprint-based. A name-based search checks the records for a specific name and date of birth, while a fingerprint-based search is more accurate and is often required for high-security jobs or working with vulnerable populations.
You can request a personal background check through the Missouri Automated Criminal History Site (MACHS). This online portal allows you to register for fingerprinting or perform a name-based search for a fee. Results are usually available quickly for name-based searches, while fingerprint results may take longer to process.
Road Conditions and Travel Safety
The MSHP works closely with the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) to keep travelers informed about road conditions. This is especially important during Missouri’s unpredictable winter months when snow and ice can make travel hazardous.
The MSHP encourages drivers to check the “Traveler Information Map” before heading out in inclement weather. This map provides real-time updates on road closures, accidents, and work zones. You can access this information via the MoDOT website or by calling 1-888-ASK-MODOT.
Safety Tips for Missouri Drivers
To stay safe on Missouri highways, the MSHP recommends several key practices. Always wear your seatbelt, as it is the single most effective way to prevent injury in a crash. Avoid distractions, such as using a mobile phone, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
In the event of a minor fender-bender where there are no injuries, the MSHP advises moving your vehicle to the shoulder if it is safe to do so. This helps prevent secondary accidents and keeps traffic flowing. If you are stranded, stay inside your vehicle and call *55 for assistance.
Water Patrol and Gaming Divisions
In addition to highway safety, the MSHP manages Missouri’s waterways. The Water Patrol Division is responsible for enforcing boating laws, investigating drowning incidents, and promoting water safety education on Missouri’s many lakes and rivers.
The MSHP also includes a Gaming Division. This division provides oversight for Missouri’s riverboat casinos. Officers in this division ensure that gaming operations are conducted fairly and legally, protecting both the state and the patrons.
Career Opportunities with the MSHP
The Missouri State Highway Patrol is frequently looking for dedicated individuals to join their ranks. Careers are available for uniformed troopers, as well as civilian roles such as dispatchers, commercial vehicle inspectors, and administrative staff.
The recruitment process for troopers is rigorous and includes a written examination, physical fitness test, psychological evaluation, and a thorough background investigation. Those who are selected attend the MSHP Academy in Jefferson City for intensive training before being assigned to a Troop.
Conclusion
The Missouri State Highway Patrol is a vital resource for residents and visitors alike. From providing essential documents like crash reports to ensuring safety on the roads and waterways, the MSHP offers a wide range of services designed to keep the public safe. By knowing how to contact your local Troop and where to find online resources, you can navigate Missouri’s legal and travel requirements with confidence.
For more information on staying safe in Missouri, you may also find our articles on Missouri vehicle registration and winter driving safety helpful. If you have specific questions about state laws, visiting the official MSHP website is always the best way to get the most current and accurate information.