Chain of Command
Chain of Command
Understanding the rank structure and hierarchy of the Florida Highway Patrol
Chain of Command Notice
Members should follow the chain of command when requesting assistance, reporting concerns, appealing decisions, or addressing departmental matters. A member may bypass the next person in the chain when that individual is directly involved in the complaint or when immediate intervention is necessary.
Office of the Colonel
Colonel
The Colonel is the Commander of the Florida Highway Patrol and has overall authority over the department. The Colonel establishes department priorities, approves major policies, appoints command personnel, and oversees all field and administrative operations.
Lieutenant Colonel
The Lieutenant Colonel serves as second-in-command and assists the Colonel with managing the department. The 02 Lieutenant Colonel oversees Patrol Operations. The 03 Lieutenant Colonel oversees Support Operations. Lieutenant Colonels assist the Colonel in managing the field and administrative functions of the Florida Highway Patrol.
High Command
Master Sergeant
Master Sergeants provide senior supervision to department supervisors, oversee patrol operations, assist with personnel development, and support command staff.
Staff Sergeant
Staff Sergeants assist with supervising Troopers and lower-ranking supervisors. They evaluate personnel, address performance concerns, and help maintain department professionalism and standards.
Sergeant
Sergeants supervise Troopers during patrol operations, manage shifts, provide guidance, and ensure policies and procedures are followed.
Colonel
The Colonel is the Commander of the Florida Highway Patrol and has overall authority over the department. The Colonel establishes department priorities, approves major policies, appoints command personnel, and oversees all field and administrative operations.
Lieutenant Colonel
The Lieutenant Colonel serves as second-in-command and assists the Colonel with managing the department. The 02 Lieutenant Colonel oversees Patrol Operations. The 03 Lieutenant Colonel oversees Support Operations. Lieutenant Colonels assist the Colonel in managing the field and administrative functions of the Florida Highway Patrol.