Commissioner Higgins sitting at his desk with the American and State of Connecticut flags on either side of him.

Welcome to the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection

DESPP plays an essential role to keep Connecticut safe. We’re on the front lines every day. We prepare for the next emergency, analyze crime-scene DNA, and patrol our highways. We improve the quality of life in Connecticut through law enforcement, public education, the latest science and technology, and state-of-the-art training.

We can help you:

  • Become a CT state police officer or firefighter 
  • Get a firearm license
  • Schedule fingerprinting
  • Prepare for an emergency
  • Find job or internship opportunities
Learn more about DESPP  

Find what you need at DESPP

Document being stamped for approval

Special licensing and firearms

Find the information you need to get licensed as a bail enforcer, private investigator, security guard, pawn shop broker, and more. You can also find info on pistol permits, boxing, and mixed martial arts (MMA) regulations.
Apply for your special licensing and permits  
Commissioner Higgins sitting down with host at WTIC.

News and events

Stay up to date on what’s happening at DESPP. Find events in your area, learn about department outreach, read press releases, and sign up for news alerts.
Discover DESPP news and events  
Person being fingerprinted.

Forms and resources

Find the forms you need quickly and easily. You can gain access to records, register for police and fireman training, request a speaker at an event, access law enforcement forms, and so much more.
Browse important forms and resources  

Helpful tools

fresh start icon

Get a fresh start with a clean slate
Your past mistakes shouldn’t define your future. Learn how you can have your criminal record cleared through our Clean Slate bill.
Files icon

Access public records and reports
Put in a request for accident reports, criminal investigations, and other public records from the Connecticut State Police (CSP).
Fingerprint icon

Schedule a fingerprinting appointment
Fingerprinting in CT is by appointment only. Schedule your fingerprinting appointment ahead of time. Find important info and book now.
File icon

Register for a pistol permit
Find application instructions and eligibility requirements for a CT pistol permit. You can also change your address, renew your permit, and more.
Notepad icon

Learn about internship opportunities
Discover how to apply for an internship working with a division of DESPP.
Magnifier icon

Explore DESPP data
Browse important data and information from DESPP. This includes traffic enforcement statistics, crime rates, and more.

We’re here to serve and protect CT

Explore our departments and divisions  
DESPP is here to help you feel secure, safe, prepared, and informed for public safety and emergencies.

Connecticut State Police 

Report an incident, book fingerprint appointments, look up crime reports, locate state police troops, find recruitment information, and more.

Emergency Management and Homeland Security 

Find resources, emergency preparation plans, and assistance before, during, and after a disaster. Get access to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Fire Prevention and Control 

Gain access to firefighter training resources and register for the Connecticut Fire Academy. Learn about fire services and find the latest CT fire service news.

Police Officers Standards and Training Council 

Learn how you can become a Connecticut State Police Officer and find job opportunities. Police departments can find training resources, accreditation information, recruitment events, and more.

Scientific Services 

Submit evidence, check guidelines for cold cases, and communicate with case management. Find job and internship opportunities, learn about outreach, and check out our upcoming events.

Statewide Emergency Telecommunications 

Access important information for first responders, policies and regulations for telecommunications, and public education information. Learn how you can register for telecommunicator certification training.
Explore our departments and divisions  

Latest news

Commissioner Higgins speaks to crowd outside

Wrong-way driving sensors in CT

New wrong-way driving sensors have been installed on highway ramps, making the streets of Connecticut safer for drivers.  By the end of 2024, 135 devices will be installed throughout the state.
Watch state leaders talk about new wrong-way sensors  
Officers and K9s standing in front of a white farmhouse.

Special profile on the CSP K9 unit

The K9 Unit in Meriden provides specialized training for officers and K9s around the world, including drug detection, arson, and body recovery dogs. CSP offers a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into training K9s and their officers.
Watch the CSP K9 Unit profiled on WTNH  
Fire academy trainees learning techniques in the woods.

CT Fire academy trainees work hard

Our fire academy recruits are learning the ropes to master lifesaving skills and techniques. The newest group of trainees have just started their training to join the ranks of Connecticut’s brave firefighters.
See more photos from the fire academy  

Meet Commissioner Ronnell A. Higgins

Governor Lamont and Commissioner Higgins

Dedicated to the people of CT

DESPP Commissioner Ronnell A. Higgins is dedicated to serving and protecting the people of Connecticut. By leading an agency of public servants, they work together to provide public safety services, training, education, and advanced technology for the safety of Connecticut citizens. In his role, Commissioner Higgins ensures every voice is heard both in his agency and in the community.
Learn more about DESPP Commissioner Higgins  

Additional resources