How To Become A Police Officer Michigan

Police Departments In Michigan

In addition to the Michigan State Police and the county sheriffs offices, candidates for law enforcement who meet the MCOLES requirements may consider working for one of the states many local police departments. Two of the largest forces in the state are the Detroit Police Department and the Grand Rapids Police Department. In addition to the minimum requirements for being any kind of law enforcement officer in the state, those wishing to apply to a particular citys force must also meet the standards of that department.

S To Becoming A Michigan State Police Trooper

Successfully Pass A Background Check

You can expect any law enforcement agency youre applying for to conduct a number of checks into your background, including criminal history and even credit history. While this isnt literally the first step to becoming a police officer, it is the first one youll need to consider before you get too invested in the process. If you have concerns about how your background might impact your candidacy, you may want to consult a police academy admissions representative about it.

Your credit history may be analyzed because it gives potential employers an idea of your level of responsibility and potential problems like gambling-related debts. Police departments look into applicants history of criminal activity, employment, residency and academic records as well.

Basically, the police department is going to get deep into your business, says Adam Plantinga, and 17-year veteran sergeant with the San Francisco Police Department. Dont leave anything out on your background packet. If you omit something, even inadvertently, and it comes to light, you will likely be eliminated as a candidate. Departments are looking for responsible people who play by the rules.

Things like felonies and gross misdemeanors could disqualify you from becoming a police officer, but less serious offenses could also be problematicit really depends on the department and its policies.

Don’t Miss: Can You Obtain A Copy Of A Police Report

Salary For Police Officer Jobs In Michigan

Michigan police officers have an average of about $53,000 a year. Which is right around the national average. Officers may be paid more or less depending on where in Michigan they work, how much experience they have, and what their level of education and rank is. Criminal investigators, detectives and other higher-level officers in Michigan earn an average of $71,000 per year.

Eligibility Requirements For Detroit Police Officers

Must be at least 18 years of age Possess a valid Drivers License High School Diploma or GED from an accredited institution U.S. Citizenship No Felony Convictions

DIVERSITY STATEMENT: The City of Detroit Police Department is committed to maintaining a police force that reflects the diversity of the community. The City of Detroit is constantly striving to provide the highest level of public service by men and women from all backgrounds and cultures to maintain a police department that is responsive to the needs of the total community.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: The City of Detroit is an Equal Opportunity Employer. No applicant for employment shall be discriminated against on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, disability or other criteria prohibited by city, state or federal law.

Also Check: How To Get A Police Report In Houston

How To Become A Marine Corps Police Officer

The Marine Corps like most branches is best known for its foot soldiers.

Nonetheless, there are several other worthwhile professions to consider if you plan to enlist in the Marines.

For example, a Marine Corps Police Officer plays an important role in the branch even if its not as glamorous as combat.

There are many reasons why you should consider the military profession, including the opportunities it creates after your service agreement concludes in the USMC.

Learn more about what it takes to become a Marine Corps Police Officer, including entry requirements and training expectations.

Also Check: Can I See A Police Report Online

Michigan State Police Trooper Training Prerequisites And Education Requirements

The Michigan State Police requires that trooper applicants have a high school diploma or GED and meet all requirements outlined above. Applicants must also pass the rigorous screening process that includes a written civil service exam, a physical fitness test, two personal interviews, and a background investigation. Those who pass all stages of the hiring process will be conditionally appointed as trooper recruits and be invited to complete training at the Michigan State Police Training Academy.

The Michigan State Police Training Academy, located in Lansing, is a comprehensive program that is designed to develop law enforcement skills. Candidates should be in excellent physical condition prior to entering training as the training academy is physically intense. Recruit training lasts for 20 to 22 weeks and in addition to physical training and conditioning includes training in law enforcement skills such as firearms use, first response, investigation, and surveillance. Troopers who have higher ranks overall at graduation have a greater chance of being assigned to their preferred location. Following graduation, new troopers are assigned to a Field Training Officer for a 17-week probation period, after which troopers are certified to work independently.

Also Check: Where Can I Watch Fashion Police

Detroit Police Officer Salary And Job Outlook

Officers with the Detroit Police Department typically begin at a base salary of $36,900.2 The starting salary can be higher depending on education and previous experience. After completing the 19-week basic training course, officers receive a $1,000 pay increase.2 Officers also receive annual step increases during their first five years on the force. There are opportunities for additional earnings such as longevity pay, shift differentials , off-duty court appearances, and overtime. Officers also receive comprehensive health insurance benefits and paid time off, and may be eligible for tuition reimbursement after one year of service. As of 2015, the average salary for police officers in the greater Detroit metro area was $61,210.3

Police Academy Requirements In Michigan

While prerequisites and requirements for the police force in Michigan would vary from one county to another, there are some general requirements that remain the same across the board, and which are deemed by the state government as essential to be even considered for the primary written exam.

The department in charge of police officer recruitment in the state of Michigan is the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards. Their website is hosted by the state government of Michigan and could be accessed here.

Here are some of the qualifications you would need to be considered for a vacant police officer post:

• Minimum age of 18 years
• A high school or General Education Development certificate
• No prior convictions before applying
• Good moral character
• A license valid for use in the state of Michigan

Don’t Miss: What Do You Need To Be A Police Dispatcher

Michigan Police Officer Requirements

Future cops and sheriffs deputies in Michigan must meet MCOLES minimum standards and requirements before being offered a job by any type of law enforcement department. These are just the minimum, though, which means that individual departments may set additional standards for their recruits. Basic requirements state that candidates must:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Be a US citizen
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Have a valid drivers license
• Not have any disqualifying criminal offenses
• Be of good moral character
• Have normal hearing and vision , including color vision without the use of color enhancing lenses

Complete Police Academy Application

Once you have a completed the college’s general application, you may apply to the Police Academy.

To get started with a new application, or to access an existing/saved Police Academy application, please click the link below.

The deadline to submit applications is November 18, 1600 for the 111th Mid-Michigan Police Academy. Mandatory Police Academy orientation is January 5, 2023 0800. Classes begin January 6, 2023 0800. Graduation for the Academy is scheduled for Friday, May 5, 2023.

Don’t Miss: Can I Look Up A Police Report

S To Become A Police Officer In Michigan

***IMPORTANT*** The information below may have changed, therefore please visit the official recruiting website of the agency that you are interested in becoming a police officer for.

To become a police officer in Michigan you have to be licensed by the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards . To get that license candidates must meet minimum selection standards, including passing a basic police academy course or having prior training and experience, and being hired by a law enforcement agency

Apply To Become A Police Officer

The application process for cops consists of more than just completing an application. Getting hired as a police officer usually means you have been vigorously vetted in a multi-step process. While this process varies with each police department, you can typically expect some combination of the following:

The Application

When an agency posts an announcement, it may want a preliminary online application, to be followed later by the most extensive paper application that most people will ever see in their lives, or it may ask for the latter right away. Either way, the application may precede the written examination, or in some cases, applicants submit their applications when they report for the entrance exam.

The Entrance Examination

The Physical Abilities Test

Sometimes called a physical agility test or physical fitness test, this may occur on the same day as the written test, or the department may schedule it separately. PATs vary greatly from agency to agency, but they are designed to measure a recruits general health and fitness. Recruits may be required to run a moderate distance, perhaps a quarter mile, for speed, or a department may prefer to measure recruits endurance with a run from one to two miles that they must complete within a maximum allotment of time.

The Oral Board

The Psychological and Physical Examinations

The Executive Interview

Donât Miss: What Degree Do You Need To Be A Police

Recommended Reading: How To Become A Military Police Officer

Becoming A Police Officer In Sterling Heights Michigan

The Sterling Heights police department offers its officers a variety of jobs where they can use their talents and skills from investigations to community outreach, and from patrol to task force collaboration with other law enforcement agencies.

Sterling Heights police jobs are reserved for the most qualified law enforcement professionals. Follow the six steps in this guide to learn how to become a police officer in Sterling Heights by meeting the departments rigorous requirements.

Step 1. Meet Police Officer Requirements in Sterling Heights

The first step to becoming a cop in Sterling Heights is to make sure you meet the basic qualifications:

• At least 21 years old
• No felony, domestic violence, or sexual crimes convictions
• Already meet Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards minimum selection standards

MCOLES Minimum Selection Standards

• Pass a basic reading and writing test: cost is $68.00 and you can register online
• Pass a physical agility test that includes a half mile run, vertical jump, push-ups and sit-ups
• Have completed one of the following sources of training:

• Qualifying previous law enforcement or military experience
• MCOLES-approved training academy or school: options available for those with or without college degrees

Step 2. Apply

Step 3. Interview

Step 4. Background Investigation

• Previous colleagues or employers

Step 6. Final Review and MCOLES License

How Important Is Accreditation

Accreditation refers to an outside organization reviewing a particular school or program to ensure it meets certain standards of quality. Accreditation is important for police training programs because it serves as a mark of quality graduates who complete their education and training can be confident that what they have earned will be accepted by future employers and peers. The specific entities that offer accreditation will vary depending on the program. For instance, many associate or bachelors degree programs will not be accredited at the program level, but the school offering the degree will be accredited. This will usually be a regional or national accrediting organization recognized by the US Department of Education.

As for the accreditation of police training academies, the most prominent is the Commission on Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies, or CALEA.

Step 3

Recommended Reading: Can I Use My Gi Bill For Police Academy

Read Also: How To Find Out Why Police Came To My House

Detroit Police Department Careers

WHY DPD?

The Detroit Police Department welcomes individuals who are looking to enter an exciting career in law enforcement. We are the largest sworn law enforcement agency in Michigan, having more than 2,500 law enforcement officers, who cover nearly 140 square miles with a population in excess of 670,000 residents. When you join DPD, you join a family and can count on having the opportunity to work at one of the hundreds of units, while having the opportunity to quickly advance to the ranks of Corporal, Detective and more. Come join the team!

MEET THE FIELD RECRUITING TEAM

Are you interested in speaking with a recruiter and getting more information to apply?

What questions do you have? You can text, call or e-mail us.

OVER 100 UNITS TO CHOOSE FROM

DPD has over 100 units, assignments and teams to join. We offer many opportunities for movement due to being a larger department. Are you interested in working with K-9 or Special Operations? Maybe you enjoy working in a community policing role or as a Crime Analyst? Click below to see some of the different units we have within our agency.

The Detroit Police Department would like to thank all military veterans for proudly serving in the United States Armed Forces. We want to offer you the opportunity to continue the professionalism, pride and dedication of service you started in the military by serving the citizens of Detroit as a Detroit Police Officer.

FEMALE OFFICERS ON THE JOB

Ensure A Career As A Police Officer Is Right For You

As with any job, its important to take a hard look at what the position requires to determine whether the career path is really right for you. Not only is it important to consider the career in general, its also important to look at the education required, the on-the-job intensity that police officers might experience on a day-to-day basis, and other factors. Its also a good idea to consider advancement if you have an eye toward higher-level administrative or federal work, is becoming a police officer the best stepping stone? Here are some questions to ask before diving into training to become a police officer.

• Do I have the physical strength to restrain dangerous individuals or save innocent civilians?
• Can I effectively read peoples emotions and feelings, in particular when it comes to assessing an individuals credibility and danger to others?
• Can I make difficult decisions that often have no ideal outcomes?
• Am I comfortable taking on a leadership role, whether it be as a community resource or point of assurance during a crisis?
• Am I good at communicating with others, especially in high stress situations?

If you answered yes to these questions, you may be an excellent fit for a police officer career.

Don’t Miss: How To Become Detective In Police

Over 100 Units To Choose From

Air Support

Air Support is responsible for the following : conducting aerial patrols and responding to calls for service aerial observation border surveillance relays in incident command inland search and rescue security investigative and administrative flights providing information on suspects fleeing activities in both vehicular and foot pursuits assisting ground units in search activities and assisting with Officer in Trouble calls by providing directions.

Bomb Squad

The Bomb Squad is responsible for the investigation and render-safe of suspected explosive or hazardous devices, military ordnance, suspicious or unattended items, and pyrotechnics. They are also responsible for conducting post-blast investigations, in partnership with federal agencies when appropriate. The Bomb Squad also conducts protective sweeps for explosive devices in conjunction with special events or credible threats, and is responsible for training Detroit Police Department personnel, first responders, and members of the community in explosives awareness and response. ONLY certified hazardous device technicians are authorized to inspect, handle, transport or attempt to dismantle a suspected explosive or hazardous device.

Chief’s Neighborhood Liaison

Crime Intelligence

Detroit Detention Center

Gaming

Harbormaster Unit

Homicide

Major Violators

Mounted

Precincts

enforcing laws and ordinances. The precincts are the backbone of any police department.

Professional Education and Training

Licensing Standards For Michigan Law Enforcement Officers

The chart below outlines the licensing standards published by the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards . Employment of law enforcement officers is subject to compliance with these standards. Agencies may set standards more stringent than these however, the burden is upon the agency to demonstrate that a more stringent standard is related to the ability to perform the essential job functions and is otherwise in compliance with applicable law.

All preservice and agency employed recruits must be screened to all the academy enrollment standards, and all reciprocity candidates considered for employment must be screened by the agency for compliance with all standards.

The licensing standards published under the authority of 2016 PA 289 are found in Rules 28.14203 through 28.14207 of the Michigan Administrative Code.

Don’t Miss: How To Get Police Records For Free

Pass The Post Exam & Become A Police Officer

In order to work as a police officer, aspiring applicants must pass the Peace Officer Standards and Training or Police Officer Standards and Training exam. Commonly known as the POST exam, this is required for each state except Hawaii . Each state has subtle differences in their testing procedure, requirements, and the test itself, so its important to do in-depth research on the test your particular state requires.

Examsfor police officers include not only the POST written examination which includes an evaluation of grammar, reading comprehension, andwriting but other points as well, such as physical agility,medical health, psychological fitness, background review, and an oralinterview. Some states might add other requirements, such as apolygraph test. Once these tests are satisfactorily passed, graduatesare ready to work as police officers. The procedure it takes to getfrom passing the tests to wearing the badge depends on the state andin some cases, the department itself.

Step 6