How to Get NCIC Certified
The National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database, maintained by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, is a nationwide information resource used by law enforcement agencies and police dispatchers to access data on missing persons, stolen property, fugitives, outstanding arrest warrants, criminal records, moving violations, vehicle registrations, driver's license information, sex offenders, and more. The database is an invaluable tool in police work, with trained operators using it to communicate with and assist police officers and investigators in the field. In order to access and operate the database, dispatchers must go through a certification course.
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Instructions
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Check your state's NCIC certification requirements by contacting your local police department for complete information on your state's rules and regulations, as well as a list of certification programs offered in your area.
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Using the information provided, contact a criminal-justice or law-enforcement department at your local community college or vocational institute for information on NCIC training or certification requirements. Alternatively, a local police department may provide this training free of charge as a condition of hiring you.
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Complete the course and submit to a background check and biometrics session, which will use your vital information and fingerprints.
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On approval and passing the background check, you will be NCIC certified. The certification must be renewed regularly (usually every 2 years) with an additional training or refresher course.
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Tips & Warnings
Always take NCIC certification in the state where you plan to seek employment.
If still in search of a dispatch position, contact individual law-enforcement agencies for their specific requirements and to learn whether they provide free training and NCIC certification courses.
Avoid online certification courses. They are not recognized as valid in many states.
