Central Division

Phone: (559) 603-7740 Central Division

Address:
5179 N. Gates Avenue
Fresno, CA 93722

Hours:

Monday : 8:00AM - 5:00PM

Tuesday: 8:00AM - 5:00PM

Wednesday: 8:00AM - 5:00PM

Thursday: 8:00AM - 5:00PM

Friday: 8:00AM - 5:00PM

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

Welcome to CHP Central Division

On behalf of the California Highway Patrol (CHP) Central Division, we extend a warm welcome to our community members, visitors, and partners. With 17 field offices across the Central Valley, our dedicated officers and staff work tirelessly to uphold our mission of providing the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security.

Our top priority is ensuring the safety of our roads and communities by reducing traffic-related fatalities and promoting responsible driving on California’s highways. The Central Valley is home to three of the nation’s most breathtaking national parks—Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon—which attract millions of visitors each year. Additionally, our region is one of the most agriculturally rich and diverse areas in the United States, making it a vital part of California’s economy and culture.

Central Division is also responsible for patrolling two of California’s most critical transportation arteries: State Route 99 and Interstate 5. These major corridors facilitate daily travel for commuters, tourists, and commercial transportation. Our officers also patrol the Grapevine, a crucial shipping route, ensuring the safe and efficient movement of goods and services across the state.

Whether you are a resident, a traveler, or a public safety partner, we are committed to serving you with professionalism and dedication. Thank you for your continued support in keeping our highways and communities safe. Drive responsibly, stay vigilant, and enjoy all that Central California has to offer.

Division Commander's Message

I am honored to serve as the Commander of Central Division and welcome you to a new chapter of community partnership, safety, and progress. Our division is committed to fostering trust, transparency, and collaboration with the people we serve.

Public safety is a shared responsibility, and my vision is to ensure that every resident, business owner, and visitor feels secure and respected. We will continue working diligently to build strong relationships, listen to your concerns, and implement strategies that enhance the well-being of our communities.

As we move forward together, I encourage you to engage with our officers, participate in community meetings, and share your thoughts on how we can better serve you. I look forward to making Central Division a safer, stronger, and more connected community.

Specialized Units & Services

While patrol officers remain the foundation of the CHP, additional support from specialized units within Central Division enhances our ability to fulfill our mission.

Recruitment

The Recruitment and Applicant Investigations Unit plays a vital role in ensuring the CHP’s continued strength and success by attracting qualified personnel. This is achieved through the Applicant Preparedness Program, a proactive recruitment strategy, and monthly testing opportunities throughout the Central San Joaquin Valley.

Transportation Management Center (TMC)

The Central Valley Transportation Management Center is a collaborative effort between CHP and Caltrans. Staffed by professionals from both agencies, the TMC utilizes advanced transportation technology—including computer-aided dispatch, changeable warning message signs, and live traffic updates—to provide real-time roadway information and enhance public safety.

Special Operations

The Investigative Services Unit focuses on several key areas:

Auto Theft Investigators recover stolen vehicles and dismantle organized theft rings, including chop shops.

Canine Officers and their trained dogs assist in detecting and intercepting drug trafficking operations.

Task Force Officers collaborate with allied agencies to apprehend gang members and disrupt drug manufacturing and distribution networks.

Detectives are responsible for investigating all crimes on state property.

Commercial Vehicle Enforcement

The Commercial Vehicle and Motor Carrier Units oversee:

Two Inspection Facilities that ensure compliance with commercial vehicle regulations.

Mobile Road Enforcement Officers and Civilian Inspectors/Specialists who conduct inspections, ensuring the safe and efficient movement of regulated vehicles through Central California.

Multidisciplinary Accident Investigation Team (MAIT)

The MAIT conducts in-depth investigations of major traffic collisions, analyzing environmental, human, and mechanical factors to determine causation. Their expertise extends to:

Collision reconstruction

Supplemental crash investigations

Aircraft crash assessments

Vehicle data analysis

Their work helps prevent future incidents by identifying and addressing underlying risk factors.

Public Information & Outreach (PIO)

CHP Public Information Officers serve as the bridge between the Department and the communities we protect. Their responsibilities include:

Developing and delivering traffic safety and outreach programs

Educating the public to reduce roadway risks

Assessing and improving public perception of CHP operations

Strengthening community relationships to enhance public trust and recruitment efforts

Safety and Farm Labor Vehicle Education (SAFE) & El Protector Program

The SAFE and El Protector programs focus on enforcement and education efforts within Spanish-speaking communities.

The SAFE Unit specializes in outreach to migrant farm laborers, promoting safer transportation practices.

The El Protector Program serves as a liaison between the CHP and the Central Valley’s Hispanic population, fostering trust and engagement.

At Central Division, we are dedicated to making our highways and communities safer through proactive enforcement, public education, and strategic partnerships. We encourage you to stay informed, drive responsibly, and reach out to us with any concerns or suggestions.

Thank you for your support!