How to Become a Police Officer in Indianapolis

Indianapolis has a population of nearly 800,000 people making it the country's fourteenth largest city. The city is served by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD). The IMPD was created in 2007 with the merger of the Indianapolis Police Department and the Marion County Sheriff's Department. The 1,740 sworn officers of the IMPD are divided into six service districts. The IMPD also has four special units: SWAT, Mounted Patrol, Aviation and Canine. The IMPD offers many career opportunities for entry-level police officers. This article will give you step-by-step information on joining the force.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Steps

1. The first step in the journey to become a police officer with the IMPD is filling out and turning in an application. This can be done either online (see Resources for a link) or in person at one of the many district offices throughout the city.

2. Take the civil service exam. This is a requirement for all police departments. Studying for the exam should be easy as there are many available books to help you at your local library.

3. Once you have passed the exam, you will be invited to an oral interview. It is important you dress in appropriate business attire and be enthusiastic about becoming a police officer.

4. Take the physical agility test. There are 11 different components of the test. The standards can be found online (see resources).

5. 
   Polygraph

   Take the polygraph exam. A polygraph is used with various police departments throughout the country. Find out more about polygraphs to better prepare yourself.

6. Submit any information required for the background check. It is important to be as truthful as possible on the polygraph. The background investigations bureau will look into every aspect of your life, including criminal history, references, job history, among other factors.

7. Take the medical exam. This is a standard exam that usually does not disqualify many applicants.

8. Take the psychological exam. This test is needed so the IMPD can find out if you can handle the pressure of a law enforcement career. You need to be strong mentally as well as physically.

9. The last step before your information is submitted to the board of approvals is a drug test which 99 percent of applicants pass. There is a no tolerance policy with the IMPD. It is certainly not wise to take any drugs during the hiring procedure. You will also have to take a drug test throughout your career with the IMPD.

10. The final and most challenging step in becoming a police officer with the IMPD is attending the academy. It is both challenging mentally and physically. A recruit spends 932 hours of training in a 24-week period.

Resources

• Official Site for the City of Indianapolis
• Indianapolis Metro Police Department
• Online application

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