How to Become a Patrol Police Officer
A career as a police patrol officer is exciting, challenging and rewarding. Candidates need to be in good physical condition, possess average or above average mental acuity and have the ability to control their emotions. Candidates should also realize that the job is potentially dangerous and often very stressful. No one day is ever the same, and decisions--sometimes life or death--must be made instantaneously. However, the satisfaction that comes from protecting and aiding the public is incentive enough for most officers to overcome the necessary challenges. In most departments, salaries are competitive with other jobs, and the opportunities for advancement are always present. The U.S. Department of Labor estimates a steady growth through the year 2016 for patrol officers nationwide. While the particular requirements involved with becoming a patrol officer vary from department to department, the below information is a basic overview of the procedure candidates can expect.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- High school diploma, possibly some college
- United States citizenry
- Be at least 20 years of age
- A driver's license
- No criminal record
Instructions
-
-
1
Make sure you meet the department's minimum hiring qualifications, such as education level, age, citizenship and work experience. You can find this out by visiting the department's website or calling their personnel office.
-
2
Fill out an application. Many departments offer an online application, or you can visit your city's personnel office for a hard copy. A filing fee may be required.
-
-
3
Take the civil service examination. Testing dates can be found by visiting the police department's website, calling the department's personnel office or contacting your city's human resources department.
-
4
Prepare for the physical ability test. If you pass the written exam, you will be required to pass a physical exam as well. This usually consists of timed tests of push-ups, sit-ups and running.
-
5
Take and pass an oral interview. Most departments require a face-to-face oral exam before an interview board consisting of sworn officers and community leaders. During the interview, you will answer scenario-based questions, among other things.
-
6
Undergo a background investigation during which your criminal and credit history will be checked, interviews may be conducted with employers, acquaintances and neighbors, and other information that you supplied on your application will be verified. This can often be a lengthy process.
-
7
Enter a police academy. If you pass all your exams, interviews and background check and are offered employment, then your next stop will be a 4- to 5-month (on average) training period in a police academy. Here you will learn all the basic skills and procedures necessary to become a successful patrol officer. You will also undergo intense physical training for optimal job performance.
-
8
Complete post-academy and field training. During this period, you will learn your department's policies and procedures, as well as the laws specific to your municipality. You will also be assigned to work with an experienced officer in the field. This training period is different for each department.
-
9
Complete your probationary period as a patrol officer. This period usually lasts a year, after which you will become a permanent member of the police department.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Do as much research as possible before making the decision to become a police officer. Talk to patrol officers, if possible, and glean as much information as you can from them. Prepare for the written exam with books (available at bookstores and libraries), and test prep workshops that are sometimes offered through your department. Keep up your physical training throughout the application process. It could take a person up to a year before she is accepted into an academy. You don't want to be out of shape when you get the call.
