How to Become a SWAT Member

SWAT Team

SWAT is an elite unit that exists in many American police departments. They handle intense situations that are outside of the capabilities of regular patrol officers. SWAT duties can range from handling hostage situations to counter-terrorism. It is not an easy road to become a SWAT member, but with enough dedication and perseverance, it is a manageable road.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

Become a SWAT Member

1. Apply for a position in a police department. This is a required step as SWAT members are selected from applicants from police departments. You must often serve three to five years in a police department to be considered for SWAT.

2. Attend training classes within the department. Classes that will better prepare you for SWAT are defensive tactics, firearms, and the legalities of police force.

3. Apply for a position in SWAT after serving at least 3 years in the police department. There are not always positions available, so make sure to keep checking for an opening. You will not automatically be accepted into SWAT, it is just like applying for any other job.

4. Get selected as a candidate. Afterwards, you will be required to complete several several qualifying tests. The first series of tests will be physical. This will require you to complete pushups, situps, timed runs, and a variety of weightlifting exercises. You must meet certain benchmarks in all of these tests to continue on your path to becoming a SWAT member.

5. Complete a firearms test. This test will include shooting at moving targets, shooting while moving, and rapid firing. You will also be tested on your knowledge of the mechanics of certain guns.

6. Complete an interview with a review board. The board will decide whether or not you have what it needs to become a member of SWAT.

7. Pass a psychological examination. This will give insight on how you will handle stressful situations and how you will handle being a part of the SWAT team.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you work as a team during your entire police career. Your peers will most likely be questioned during your application process to see if you can work well in a team.

• Keep a clean record.

• Make sure you have more than just the physical aspect of SWAT covered. You will need to have a wealth of knowledge in department policies.

• Stay healthy. Refraining from smoking and drinking will increase your chances of becoming SWAT.

• SWAT is on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You will be required to respond quickly to a scene in full gear, so be prepared.