How to Become a Police Officer in Los Angeles

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Los Angeles is the second largest city in the United States. The police department was formed in 1869 and has over 13,000 employees. They have 26 helicopters, 3 planes and 2 police boats. There are 19 different divisions in the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), which open up many different career opportunities. The LAPD can give you a career as an officer, reserve officer or civilian employee.

Instructions

1. Find out if you're qualified. You must be 20 1/2 years old to take the entry-level exam. You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Unlike most departments, you only need a high school diploma or equivalent. A college degree is not needed. Residency in Los Angeles is not required.

2. Complete an online, interactive Preliminary Background Application (PBA) and Job Preview Questionnaire (JPQ). The PBA lets you know if you have a chance of getting through the background investigation. The JPQ lets you get to know the duties of police work better.

3. Take the Personal Qualifications Essay (PQE). It consists of questions that you have to answer in essay form. It consists of questions that test your judgment, behavior and decision making ability. Based on your score, you will be placed on the eligible list.

4. Take the Physical Ability Test (PAT). This test consists of two parts. The first part measures your strength, agility and endurance. The second part measures aerobic capacity and is usually administered during the medical evaluation (see Step 8).

5. Fill out the Personal History Form. This lets LAPD detectives complete a background investigation on you. On the form, you must list things like previous employment and addresses. It's similar to an extensive job application.

6. Take the polygraph. The polygraph is performed by a polygrapher. This test ensures you did not lie on your personal history form.

7. Go to the department interview. If you pass your polygraph, you are invited to an interview. This interview is done in front of a panel of veteran officers. It is similar to a regular job interview, but is likely longer and more specific.

8. Pass a medical evaluation and psychological evaluation. These test to see if you have any condition physically or mentally that would not allow you to do your job as a police officer.

9. Go through the Certification and Appointment / Pre-employment Substance Screening. You need to pass the substance screening to get your certification for appointment. The screening is a drug test that you will also have to complete throughout your career.

10. Prepare for the academy once you receive your letter of appointment. The academy lasts 6 months and is very challenging both mentally and physically. The LAPD academy covers academics, driving, firearms, human relations, law, tactics, and physical training. For more information on the academy, contact an LAPD recruiter at [e-mail].

Resources

• Join the LAPD
• Contact an LAPD Mentor