The Process to Become a Police Dispatcher

Police dispatchers send emergency units to locations requesting assistance and monitor the locations of emergency service personnel. They must send appropriate units and the correct number of units depending on the emergency.

Types

Training for police dispatchers varies. At a minimum, a dispatcher must possess a high school diploma. Some dispatchers earn an associate degree in public safety services, while others may opt for a three-day course offered through the National Academies of Emergency Dispatch.

Function

An associate degree program will take about two years to complete. Many police departments will provide some on-the-job training, but require dispatchers to have a few years of experience with related duties. Additionally, some departments require certification from their state Peace Officer Standards and Training department. This involves some educational requirements and passing a certification exam.

Alternatives

Another route to becoming a police dispatcher is to attend a workshop or seminar on police or emergency dispatching. These events are typically offered by tech schools or community colleges.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Police, Fire and Ambulance Dispatchers
• Education Portal: Police Dispatcher Training Programs and Education Requirements