How to Become SWAT Police
Most police departments have a special weapons and tactics (SWAT) team. They are a highly trained group of police officers with superior skills in rescue operations and weaponry. SWAT teams intervene in high-risk situations that fall outside the abilities of regular policemen, such as hostage interventions, terrorist control and taking on heavily armed criminal suspects. They assist non-SWAT teams in areas such as arrest and search warrants, drug raids and providing security against snipers for large-scale public events. Becoming a SWAT member can be hard work, but it is possible if you have will and patience.
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Instructions
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Become a SWAT Member
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Complete training education at a police academy. This training will be beneficial to your career both as an officer and a SWAT member.
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2
Obtain a job as a standard police officer and stay on the force for at least three years. Most SWAT teams require a minimum of three years experience on the police force.
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3
Apply to the SWAT program once you have attained three years of experience.
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4
Complete several physical and ability exams if chosen to be interviewed. These tests include standard physical exercises such as running, pushups, pull-ups, etc., as well as exams concerning proper conduct of a SWAT officer. Further, you will be tested on your sniping, firing and other weapons-related abilities.
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5
Pass a psychological exam given by a professional, third-party psychologist. The psychologist will determine whether you have the mental capacity to handle the stresses of the job.
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6
Defend yourself against the police review board of the city. Before you are approved to be a SWAT team member, you must be examined in depth by the review board to determine whether you have the skill sets and attitude they believe is necessary for a SWAT officer.
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Tips & Warnings
SWAT team member are generally on call at all times and able to report to a situation scene in less than 30 minutes.
