The agency originated out of the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles as an inspector and enforcer of highway laws.

The burden of enforcement remained with Sheriffs and Constables in counties and police officers in the cities and towns.

A mobile enforcement agency was now ready for duty wherever civil strife or emergency conditions might exist that would warrant police personnel to ensure peace and security.

On November 3, 1938, an executive order from Majors Bishop and Nicholas officially adopted the title of "State Trooper."

The purpose of this was to identify specific members of the Division of Motor Vehicles performing the role of inspector and motorcycle deputy.

The act called for a position of superintendent for the State Police and a commissioner for the Division of Motor Vehicles.

Bureau of Strategic Governance (BSG) – Chief Diversity Officer – Professional Standards Division – Records Request (FOIA)

Gray pants with a Dark Blue stripe down the sides are worn year round.

A dark blue dress blouse and standard black Clarino Sam Browne gun belt, without the cross strap, are worn for special occasions.

Black Commando Sweaters, or "wooly pullys" with proper patches and rank can also be worn by Troopers in cold weather.

First Sergeants and below wear silver, out lined in blue, hash marks on the left sleeve denoting years of service.

Beginning in late 2018, Troopers of all ranks and Special Agents are issued the SIG Sauer P320 .357 SIG pistol, while Troopers ranked First Sergeant and below are also issued the Benelli Supernova 12-gauge, pump-action shotgun and the Colt M4 Carbine patrol rifle.

Less-than-lethal weapons carried by troopers include OC spray and the ASP baton.

Prior to 1928, inspectors only used automobiles once they had seized a vehicle used to transport illegal whiskey and it had been released to the Division for enforcement purposes by the courts.

In 2019, the Virginia State Police bought every available new Police Interceptor sedan, giving the state a steady supply of new Interceptor sedans for up to 5 years beyond the model's discontinuation depending on vehicle attrition due to accidents or other damage.

These vehicles are supplemented by 2013–2022 Chevrolet Tahoe PPVs primarily used for specialty units and 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty XLs as utility vehicles; as well as the remaining Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptors and unmarked Chevrolet Impala PPVs.