How to Become a Cop in Canada

A Saskatoon Police Officer

In order to enter law enforcement in Canada you must pass a number of requirements and tests. You will need to have a clean criminal record, but you do not need a college degree. The Canadian Police organizations are always on the lookout for talented individuals. They are an equal opportunity employer, meaning that women and minorities are welcome to apply, and in many cases the organizations are seeking such candidates. Hopefully by following these steps you will be able to keep Canada safe and secure for everyone.

Instructions

Becoming a Canadian Cop

1. To begin the process to become a Canadian police officer you should be CPR and first-aid certified--in many cases you can receive such certification at the local police station. You also need to be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, at least 18 and in good health. You can also sign up at information sessions, which are held regularly

2. If you meet the minimum requirements, the next step is to go to your local police station and fill out an application. Assuming they are hiring, they will get in touch with you and bring you down to take a series of tests.

3. They will give you two tests that you must pass to be considered for a job as a police officer. Your writing (and reading) skills, and physical skills are tested--in the case of the writing test you must score an 80 out of 100 to pass. Once you meet the minimum requirements of those tests you move on to the next round.

4. You must then fill out two more applications - one a simple application form, the other a personal disclosure form. After filling out these documents you must submit to an interview that tests your knowledge of the police force and seeks to find out why you wish to enter the force.

5. The next step is to take a polygraph and a psychological interview. If you successfully meet the requirements of these interviews you will have to fill out another application, which includes a form regarding your vision. You will also undergo a background check.

6. The final step of the interview process is a "panel interview" in which various personnel will ask you a series of questions. If you answer to their satisfaction you have a good chance of being hired! After you are hired by the Canadian Police Force you must undergo a round of medical examinations; should you prove sufficiently healthy during these exams, you are then officially an officer.

7. Once you are officially an officer you must enter an 18-week training course at the police academy. Upon completion you will enter into field training for a six-month period before you are allowed to go out on your own.

Tips & Warnings

• Speaking more than one language is a positive, although not a requirement. A clean record and background is a must to make it through the process. The interview process can be lengthy--do not expect to be hired overnight.

Resources

• Information on becoming a Canadian Cop
• Information on the Police Training Process
• You can purchase practice tests and information at this site.