How to Become a Crossing Guard

A crossing guard is a traffic officer who is stationed at the corner of busy intersections near schools. Crossing guards control the flow of traffic at the intersection, and help students and others cross the street safely. Here's how to get this job--it's easy if you follow these steps.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Search your town's website or read your local newspaper's classifieds to find school crossing guard openings. Review the qualifications listed and follow the instructions for applying for the job. Requirements may vary according to the town or state.

2. Fill out and send in your application. Enroll into the agency's crossing guard training program or traffic school for training.

3. Train to become a crossing guard. Learn in the classroom and out in the field about basic traffic laws, school zone signs, the use of traffic signs and signals, proper crossing procedures, how to handle emergencies and more. The hours of classroom and field training may vary by state or town. Pass the written requirements with a grade of 75 percent or higher, and pass field training at your assigned post to officially become a crossing guard.

4. Receive your uniform after completing your training course. Wear a brightly colored vest and hat so you can be easily identified by pedestrians and drivers. Use a whistle if you need to get immediate attention of schoolchildren at a busy or noisy intersection.

5. Work at your designated intersection. Remember to use what's called a proper search pattern for crossing the street. Assist students and other pedestrians in following that procedure.

Tips & Warnings

• Always follow the procedure for crossing the street, and encourage pedestrians to do the same. This includes stopping at the curb; looking for traffic in all directions; watching out for turning vehicles over your shoulder, especially if you're in the middle of the intersection; then crossing. Use a STOP paddle to signal drivers to stop and to allow schoolchildren to walk the crosswalk safely.
• A crossing guard must be in good shape since he or she must stand for long periods of time outdoors. You must be able to move in and out of crosswalks quickly. Good hearing, vision, communication and English-speaking skills are also required. A criminal background check may also be necessary to determine whether you qualify to work with others.
• Most crossing guards are either volunteers or paid school district employees, and they are required to work at their posts for at least three hours a day.

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