How to Become a Police Officer in New Jersey

To protect and to serve-–this is a vow that legions of police officers across the country take in their oath to uphold the law. Getting to that swearing-in ceremony takes time and dedication and depending on where you intend to hang up your shield, a variety of mandatory steps before you can call yourself one of your state's finest. Here's how to become a New Jersey State Trooper.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Contact the State Police to verify that they are accepting recruits before you begin the process.

2. Be at least 21 years of age, but not older than 35 and a US citizen.

3. Have a Bachelor’s degree or at least 60 semester credits from an accredited college or university and two years' employment, or 30 semester credits and two years' active military service, with honorable discharge.

4. Have a current valid driver’s license and a clean driving record. More than one DUI conviction or a single conviction within the past five years is grounds for disqualification in New Jersey.

5. Have a clean criminal record.

6. Do not use drugs. Drug use is grounds for disqualification.

7. Do not have tattoos on any area of exposed skin.

8. Consider applying to the New Jersey State Police Pre-Employment Preparation Program (PEPP) which is a voluntary program designed to aide candidates in their readiness for the Police Academy.

9. Obtain and fill out an application for the New Jersey State Police Academy. Applications can be obtained from State Police stations, the New Jersey State Police website, recruiting offices and county clerk offices.

10. Attend the Police Academy, submitting to and passing all physical, written, oral, and psychological tests.

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