So, how long does it take to be a police officer? It all depends on the specific timeline and the steps established by the department you’d like to work for, as well as the applicable state, county and city requirements. The following are the general steps to become a police officer after completion of the police academy.
1. Application
When there is an opening in a law enforcement agency, the recruitment team is looking to hire the most qualified applicant(s). Read the job posting carefully, taking note of the minimum qualifications and restrictions. Complete the applications and gather all documents needed to complete the hiring process. Be honest and answer all questions completely.
You will need to include a cover letter and resume in your application packet. The cover letter shows employers your written communication skills and your accomplishments. Your resume should list any experience you have in the field, including relevant coursework, employment and volunteering.
Highlight any skills in your resume that you believe will make you a perfect fit. You will likely have to complete an authorization sheet verifying your personal records and character references. You’ll also need to undergo a background check and drug testing.
2. Written Test
Candidates typically begin the hiring process by completing a written test, which usually includes multiple-choice questions and perhaps an essay. The exam generally measures reading comprehension, basic math skills, vocabulary, judgment skills and summarization abilities.3
3. Oral Board
Some jurisdictions may require an oral exam. A multiple-person recruitment team panel usually conducts an oral board interview. You will be asked a series of questions by the panel to measure your communication and cognitive skills. This interview is also designed to assess how well you can function while under stress.4
4. Fitness Test
Physical fitness is important for police officers, who must be capable of both apprehending suspects and assisting individuals who are in crisis situations.1 Agencies generally list their physical fitness tests online so candidates can prepare themselves well before the application process. This test is minimally pass or fail, making it an important part of the hiring process for all candidates.
5. Polygraph Test
Many agencies require applicants to take a polygraph test to see if anything in their past would disqualify them from service. A polygraph is also known as a lie detector. It works by evaluating an individual’s changes in blood pressure and sweat, both of which can be elevated in response to stress. However, because concerns have been raised about the test’s accuracy, not all police departments use the polygraph in their hiring processes.3
6. Medical and Psychological Evaluation
Most agencies typically require full medical and psychological examinations to determine physical and mental well-being. The medical exam is designed to ensure candidates are physically capable of doing the work. The psychological exam seeks to determine whether candidates are capable of exercising reasonable judgment and that they do not have any significant mental issues that may disqualify them for the job.3
7. Job Offers
Agencies offer their highest-performing candidates a contingent job offer along with an academy start date. Please keep in mind that this entire hiring process may take months to complete.
8. Complete the Police Academy
Each police academy is a little different. In general, however, you can expect to receive training in:1
- Local, state, and constitutional law, including police ethics and civil rights
- The handling and safe use of firearms
- Self-defense
- First aid
- Emergency response
- Traffic control and patrol functions
9. Complete Your Period of Probation
If you graduate from the police academy, you may be offered a position at the local precinct as a patrol officer. New patrol officers are hired on a probationary basis. This is a period of time in which you receive on-the-job training, learn about typical policing life, and are expected to prove yourself in the field.5
During your probation, your knowledge, skills and professional conduct will be closely scrutinized by your supervisor, training officer, and other more experienced fellow officers. You can make a good first impression by displaying a positive work ethic, following all regulations, and demonstrating good judgment. If you successfully pass your period of probation, the department may extend an offer of employment.5
