How To Apply For Police Officer Job

S To Become A Police Officer

You may want to know how to become a police officer, which involves several necessary steps.

• EARN A HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA OR GED

  The first step to becoming a police officer is to graduate with a high school diploma, a GED, or an equivalent. Some federal agencies and police departments require candidates to complete some college coursework or a degree.

• COMPLETE OTHER REQUIREMENTS

  Applicants must also complete basic requirements, including reaching the minimum age requirement , holding U.S. citizenship, passing a criminal background check, and meeting specific physical standards .

• OBTAIN A DEGREE

  This career does not typically require a degree, but bachelors programs can help students develop additional skills and become specific types of police officer, such as federal agent or fish and game warden. These officers usually earn higher salaries. A college degree can also help students learn a foreign language, an asset in specific regions and federal agencies. Some agencies and departments require college coursework.

• ATTEND A TRAINING ACADEMY

  Before becoming a police officer, applicants usually attend training academies. Academy students complete coursework and practical exercises in first aid, firearm usage, and emergency response. The training academy may require an entrance exam or a physical fitness test.

How To Become A Police Officer: Your Step

By on 02/10/2020

There are plenty of Hollywood movies out there that detail the rigorous physical training involved in becoming a cop. You might even be able to picture the obstacle courses, shooting ranges and tactical scenario training rooms. These are all important elements of police officer trainingbut they only make up one portion of the process.

Given the high level of responsibility and trust afforded to law enforcement, the standards for becoming a police officer are higher than what youll likely find in many careers. The specific standards and process will vary slightly based on the state, county or town youre applying to work in, but there are a few universal requirements to become a police officer you should be familiar with.

If youre wondering how to become a police officer, youre in the right place. Keep reading for a high-level breakdown of the path to pursuing a career in law enforcement.

Police Officer Job Training

Law enforcement careers usually require some on-the-job training. After graduating from the training academy, police officers usually undergo a probationary period under the supervision of a superior officer. During this probationary period, inexperienced police officers learn how to apply techniques in the real world.

After probation, officers qualify for promotion. To become a corporal, sergeant, lieutenant, or captain, applicants must pass a written exam in addition to on-the-job training. In large departments, candidates may qualify for detective positions or specific criminal fields, such as homicide or juvenile crime.

Students can also acquire on-the-job training while pursuing a criminal justice degree. Many colleges and universities offer internships for law enforcement students. Learners can also apply for internships at local police departments, giving students the chance to network with veteran police officers and gain first-hand experience in protecting local communities.

Paid internships also exist with the CIA, the FBI, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The U.S. Treasury Department also provides internships for students interested in learning about financial crimes. These internships can also help degree candidates gain necessary skills and stand out among job candidates when entering the workforce.

Read Also: How Can I Join The Police Force

Learn How To Become A Police Officer In A Massachusetts Civil Service Department

Being a police officer is a meaningful way to serve a community. As a police officer, you will be a public servant responsible for responding to fires and other emergency situations in your community. You often respond to risky and physically demanding calls and work shifts that operate around the clock with your fellow police officers.

Please read the steps to becoming a police officer

First step is to take the . Check the exam schedule to find the next exam being offered. Requirement to take the exam is

• You must meet the age requirements.

You do not need to be a resident of Massachusetts to take the exam. More detailed information can be found on the exam poster.

After taking the written exam, your name will be placed on the eligible list. When a police department is ready to hire, they request the eligible list and the Civil Service Unit sends a list of names.

If your name is reached, the hiring process will begin and may include the following

• complete an extensive employment packet
• thorough background check

If you are offered a job you can expect to first complete the following as part of the conditional offer of employment

• Take and pass the Initial-Hire Physical Ability Test

Once you have successfully passed the medical exam and PAT as well as any additional requirements from the department, you will begin your new rewarding career as a police officer.

Will The Police Officer Fired For Donating To Rittenhouse Get His Job Back

Norfolk, Virginia Police Lieutenant William Kelley was abruptly fired back in April of this year when the Guardian released information on police officers and public officials who offered donations to Kyle Rittenhouses legal defense fund.

Now that Rittenhouse has been acquitted of all charges, Kelley is demanding that he get his job back.

Kelley donated $25 to the Rittenhouse defense fund, and did so through his department-issued email address. Kelley left a message alongside the donation that said God bless. Thank you for your courage. Keep your head up. Youve done nothing wrong. Every rank and file police officer supports you. Dont be discouraged by actions of the political class of law enforcement leadership.

Upon terminating Kelley, Chip Filer, the city manager of Norfolk said that Kelleys comments were egregious and eroded trust between the police department and the public. Norfolk Chief of Police Larry Boone echoed Filers statements.

Kelly, a 19-year veteran from the police department, is demanding his job back after the Friday verdict of the Rittenhouse trial. Kelly explained why he believed that Rittenhouse was innocent at the time. Kelly cited his experience as both a violent crimes investigator and homicide detective, saying that after reviewing footage of Rittenhouses incident, he believed that there was a very strong claim of self defense.

Jennifer Harris

Dont Miss: Can You Look Up Police Reports Online

Also Check: How To Report To The Police Anonymously

Find Out If You Meet The Requirements

The state holds a civil service exam every two years to become an officer. Contact civil service directly regarding the exam schedule, availability, and registration.

To become a police officer, you need to first take a written test. You also need to meet these requirements:

• You must have a valid Massachusetts Driver’s license.
• You must be at least 19 years of age and no more than 39 years of age on the date of the examination. *
• You need to have a high school diploma or a GED certificate. You can also satisfy this requirement with three years of military service and an honorable discharge.
• You must be a Boston resident at least one year before the date of your exam.

* You can take the written exam when you turn 19, but you wont be considered for a position until you turn 21.

Are you a veteran recognized by Civil Service, either on active duty or released from the military? You can add your service time to your age, up to four years, and still be eligible for appointment as an officer.

Certificate In Law Enforcement

A certificate in criminal justice or criminology is an opportunity for individuals to gain specific instruction in an area of law enforcement. Since a certificate consists of a few classes and can be completed in a few months, the certificate can also provide an opportunity to get started on an associate degree without having to commit to the two years just yet. Certificates are also great in that some department require applicants to have some college credits, but do not require a full degree. Some of the courses available in a criminology or criminal justice certificate program are listed below:

Criminology

• Use of different philosophies regarding criminal punishment
• Familiarity with common practices within a correctional facility.
• Ability to follow established procedures and protocols of various correctional facilities

Also Check: How To Obtain A Police Report In Illinois

Full Time And Part Time Police Officer

General qualifications for the position of police officer at the time of application are:

• Citizen of the United States or evidence to show naturalization as a USA citizen.
• Twenty-one years of age or older at the time of application.
• Graduated from an accredited high school / possess a valid General Education Diploma, or GED.
• Successfully completed ACT 120 training.
• Shall be physically, medically and psychologically fit for the performance of the duties of a police officer and shall be of good moral character.
• Licensed to operate an automobile in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
• Must be able to meet the essential duties as listed on the police officer application.

Pay range is $18.00 – $22.00 depending on experience.

For an application, please call or email the Mahanoy Twp. Police Dept. or stop by 1010 W. Centre St. Mahanoy City, Pa. 17948 between the hours of 9am to 4pm. Station 773-1239 / email:

Posted: 08/24/22 Deadline:

Understanding The Person Specification

Essentially, the role of a police officer consists of a number of core competencies. You may receive these core competencies in your application pack. Alternatively, this information can usually be found on the main police recruitment website, or on the website of the particular force which you are applying to join.

Once you have found these core competencies, it is now time to structure your answer around this information. Ensure that you briefly cover each area and base your answers upon your own experiences in both your work life and personal life.

Read Also: How Long Is Police Academy In Missouri

Director Of Public Safety

LACKAWANNA COLLEGE HAS BEEN VOTED ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO WORK IN PA FOR 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019 and 2020!

Lackawanna College is a private, accredited college serving the people of Northeastern Pennsylvania. Our main campus is located in downtown Scranton, and our footprint includes satellite centers in Covington Twp., Hawley, Hazleton, Sunbury, Towanda and Tunkhannock

Our mission is to provide a quality education to all persons who seek to improve their lives and better the communities in which they live. We provide our students with a direct path to a bachelors degree, associate degree, or one of many different professional certifications. Additionally, our Continuing Education department helps put the people of Northeastern Pennsylvania back to work with modern career skills. Lackawanna is also one of the most cost-efficient regional higher education institutions.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS, PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES AND OBJECTIVES:

The Director is responsible for long term planning, management and training of all uniform public safety officers, public safety service officers and event security.

He/She also serves as a direct liaison with all outside law enforcement agencies.

This position requires the ability to work a flexible schedule, as well as travel to different college locations as necessary.

THIS POSITION IS DESIGNATED AS ESSENTIAL PERSONNEL.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

10. Manages public safety budget.

12. Other duties as assigned.

KEY COMPETENCIES:

EDUCATION:

Police Officer Application Process

General Minimum Qualifications

U.S. Citizenship Only United States citizens will receive consideration. Qualified applicants will be required to provide proof of citizenship early in the selection process.

Age Requirements Must be 21 years old but not older than 39 years old at the time of appointment .

Education Must possess a high school diploma or General Education Diploma .

Motor Vehicle License Must possess, provide, and have maintained a valid United States, state issued drivers license , and show evidence of responsible driving experience in the past one year.

Selective Service Must be registered with the Selective Service System or exempt from the Selective Service System registration as a female or due to age or military status. Those with military service must provide documentation of an honorable discharge.

Background Investigation Must complete a full background investigation.

Additional requirements may apply. Applicants may review and apply for United States Capitol Police career opportunities here.

How to Apply

The minimum qualifications listed above determine an individuals basic eligibility for employment with the United States Capitol Police . Please note, the application process can be lengthy. Depending on a persons specific circumstances, the process can take as little as a few months to more than a year.

The diagram below illustrates the hiring process for entry-level officers.

You May Like: How To Find Out If A Police Report Was Filed

Review Your Local Agencies Criminal Background Requirements

Depending on where you live and the individual requirements of law enforcement agencies in your area, there may certain restrictions concerning criminal backgrounds that can prevent you from becoming a police officer. Misdemeanor crimes, speeding tickets, and past drug use are some crimes that can often be dismissed when applying to enter into the force. However, more serious convictions such as felonies, recent drug-related charges, and domestic abuse are often deal-breakers for upcoming applicants.

Recommended Reading: How Do I Know If Police Report Was Filed

Become A Police Officer

Choose a career that makes a difference! The OPP is actively recruiting qualified candidates for the full-time position of Provincial Constable. We offer competitive salaries, pensions, paid vacation, benefit coverage and room for advancement. We also have career opportunities for experienced officers.

Recommended Reading: Can The Police Track Your Iphone

Don’t Miss: How To Obtain A Police Report In Colorado

Academy And Field Training

All Non-Certified Police Officer applicants must attend and graduate from the Broward College Institute of Public Safety Law Enforcement Academy. Recruits are required to perform classroom academics, physical training and skills proficiency while attending the police academy. The Law Enforcement Academy, Basic Recruit Training program is a 22-week program that provides training to prepare a student for the physical and mental demands of a career as a Florida police officer. Training and classes take place Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Graduates will be placed into a 16-week Field Training Program before being assigned to patrol.

Certified Police Applicants qualify for an abbreviated Field Training Program depending on their progress in the program, which can be as short as eight weeks.

Prospective applicants who are not ready to apply at this time are encouraged to fill out a Job Interest Card with the City of Fort Lauderdale Human Resources by clicking the link below. Ensure that you check the Law Enforcement box in the Select Category section of the card.

What Are The Job Requirements

While specific requirements can vary from state to state and even agency to agency, most departments look for these minimum qualifications in their applicant pools:

• The applicant is a citizen of the United States.
• The applicant is at least 18 years of age .
• The applicant is a high school graduate or has obtained a GED.
• The applicant has a valid driver’s license.

You May Like: How To Request A Police Report Online

North Webster Police Department

North Webster Police Dept. is now accepting applications for patrol officer.Applications can be picked up at North Webster P.D., 144 S. Main St., North Webster, during regular business hours, Monday Friday 8:30 4:30. Applicants must pass, written exam, physical exam, oral interviews, background checks, psychological exam and polygraph. Applicants must be 21 years of age, have a high school diploma or equivalent. Starting pay is $52000. Applications will be accepteduntil the position is filled. North Webster P.D. is an equal opportunity employer

Police Patrol Officer Upper Macungie Township Lehigh County Pa

37 Grim Road, Breinigsville, PA 18031Phone: 484-661-5911 / Fax: 610-841-4922www.uppermac.org /

The Upper Macungie Township Police Department is accepting cover letters and current resumes from interested and qualified candidates for our eligibility list for the position of full time police patrol officer.

The UMTPD is seeking motivated Police Officers who possess a strong drive for self-initiated police work while operating within a team based environment. We are only seeking proactive team players with a high desire to achieve and thrive professionally and on an individual and team basis.

GENERAL INFORMATION – The agency currently has a sworn staff of 31 officers and serves a population of approximately 26,000 citizens in a coverage area of 26 square miles. The agency is an accredited member of the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Accreditation program and prides itself on our community service. We strive to offer the highest quality of police services to our community. Annual probationary salary is $73,195.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

TO APPLY FOR THE POSITION OF POLICE OFFICER: Applicants may submit a cover letter and resume to the Chief of Police for consideration for employment. Correspondence may be submitted via email to Office Manager Keri Diehl at or correspondence may be either mailed / delivered in person in an envelope marked:

Applicant ResumeUpper Macungie Township Police DepartmentAttn: Keri Diehl, Office Manager37 Grim RoadBreinigsville, PA 18031

Also Check: What Schooling Do You Need To Be A Police Officer

Police Officer Hiring Process And Common Application Steps

If your dream job is to become a law enforcement officer then you should prepare yourself for completing something more than an application and an interview. Agencies run a series of tests and exams in order to narrow the number of police officer candidates to those who are most qualified. Then they will hire the best of the shortlisted candidates.

Since the process can be long and involve multiple steps, it is advisable to know what to expect and how to prepare properly for each application part or which are the disqualifiers that might prevent you from getting the job.

Below you will find a list of the elements and steps of the application and hiring process that you need to consider, as well as an example of the actual hiring requirements as posted by the United States Capitol Police.