How to Become a Law Enforcement Officer

Enforce local laws by launching a police officer career.

Police officers work for the state, city and county police departments to enforce local laws. These professionals spend time responding to calls for assistance and writing reports about the events encountered. Demand for police officers is expected to grow 10 percent during 2008 to 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. If you want to become a police officer, you must meet education requirements and attend training to ensure you can handle the demands of the job.

Instructions

1. Meet the police department's minimum requirements. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, minimum requirements vary. However, typical requirements include an associate degree or higher in criminal justice or related field. Some states have an age requirement, such as 21 years or older. Contact your local police department to learn about local requirements.

2. Request an employment application. Target county, state and city police departments, and request application materials. Candidates fluent in a second language and people with a military background are strongly desired, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

3. Pass a criminal background check. A criminal background check consent form will be included in the application materials. The department will check all states for criminal activity. Felony charges will interfere with your ability to start this career in most states.

4. Submit to a drug test. Instructions will be included in application materials. Typically, this includes visiting a local hospital to provide a urine sample. The sample is tested and results are forwarded to the police department.

5. Pass training requirements. Qualified candidates will be invited to attend an interview. Based on this interview, you may be invited to attend police training. Training length varies by department, but typically lasts several weeks. Self defense skills and firearms training will be taught during this course. Local laws and regulations will also be covered. Passing the training period will make you a police officer.

Tips & Warnings

• Police officers are eligible for promotion within three years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Ask about advancement opportunities, such as becoming a detective or specializing in specific types of work.

• Police officers work in hazardous conditions. The police academy will test your ability to function in these situations to ensure you can handle the demands.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Police and Detectives
• All Criminal Justice Schools: Police Officers