How to Become a Woman Police Officer

To become a woman police officer, you must be over 20 years old, a United States Citizen, and have a high school diploma or college degree. You will also need to pass several tests, including a written exam and a physical. Women police officers will also need to show that they have a clean criminal record, good moral character, and are drug-free. The following outlines the basic requirements to become a police officer for your city or county. Keep in mind that state and federal police jobs, as well as investigative careers, can require more education and training.

Things You'll Need

• High school diploma or GED
• Good driving record
• No arrests
• Physical fitness

Instructions

1. Before you become a woman police officer, you will need to have at least a high school diploma or GED. As higher education becomes more common, many police departments are raising their criteria for new recruits and are requiring an associate's degree. A bachelor's degree is preferable, however. A four-year degree will both increase your chances of being hired and earn you more money after you begin your police career.

2. Prospective women police officers often major in criminal justice, psychology, business, and communications, all of which teach important skills that you will use on the job.

3. It is also important to maintain your physical fitness when aspiring to become a female police officer, so consider joining recreational sports teams to build your endurance and agility. Sports also look good on a police application because they show that you are able to work with a team.

4. Before you can become a woman police officer, you will need to take a written civil service exam. It is not only important that you pass this test, but that you get the highest score possible, because the exam is used to select the most qualified police candidates.

5. After you have taken the written civil service test, you will need to pass a physical exam that will test your strength, reflexes, endurance, hearing and vision.

6. You will also need to undergo a physical examination by a doctor. You might also be asked to have a psychological exam before becoming an officer ecause you will need to remain calm in life-threatening situations.

7. Before you can become a woman police officer, you will also need to pass a background check, drug test and polygraph interview. The background check is rigorous. You can be disqualified if you have had a DUI, have been charged with possession of drugs or a violent crime. You will also need to have a clean driving record.

8. After you have passed the written and physical exams and background checks, you will move on to the police academy. You will generally spend three months to one year in the police academy before becoming a woman police officer.

9. After you have completed the police academy, you will still need to apply for a specific job within the police force of your choice.

10. When hiring new officers, the police department will look at a number of factors, including your credit score. As you begin to prepare for a career as a woman police officer, make sure that your finances are in order and try to chip away at large debts so that they do not harm your chances of getting hired.

11. Police departments also expect new woman police officers to have a strong work history. Even part-time jobs, summer employment and volunteer work will boost your chances of getting a job offer.