How to Become a Police Officer in Oregon

A police officer has a dangerous job. She never knows what the next call will be. It could be a routine traffic stop that turns into a huge drug bust, or it could be a call about domestic violence. Often there are weapons involved in police work. Injuries and fatalities are not uncommon. It takes a brave person to be a cop. Here's how to become one in Oregon.

Instructions

1. Possess either an associate degree or 60 semester or 90 quarter hours from an accredited college or university and be at least 21 years old. The high school graduate who wants to be an Oregon police officer can substitute experience with other police agencies or military service.

2. Be or become a U.S. citizen within 1 year of employment and pass the citizenship examination.

3. Possess or be able to obtain a valid driver's license and have no excessive traffic violations. Have no felony convictions and don't be implicated in any crimes involving domestic violence. If you have a dishonorable discharge from the military, you are not be eligible to apply.

4. Have no offensive body art.

5. Have vision correctable to 20/30. If worse than 20/100, wear soft contact lenses to meet the 20/30 requirement.

6. Be prepared to work in the following areas: 911 patrol, K-9, drug and vice investigations, domestic violence investigations, gang enforcement, transit enforcement, background investigations, district attorney office investigations, horse patrol, ATV patrol, air support, neighborhood response team, traffic enforcement and youth intervention programs.

7. Pass a comprehensive records check including criminal, civil, traffic, employment and general character.

Tips & Warnings

• The standards to become a police officer in Oregon are high. Check all requirements before applying.