How to Become Chief of Police
The chief of police of any police department works in conjunction with a town or city's mayor or chief administrator to address all matters of safety. Additionally, he is reponsible for staffing, creating patroling assignments and overseeing all departments within a police force. Many individuals who become chief of police are veteran police officers or have significant law enforcement experience. According to Indeed.com, the average salary for a chief of police is $67,000 as of January 2011.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- High school diploma
- Driver's license
- Police academy certificate
- Associate's degree
- Bachelor's degree
Instructions
-
-
1
Get your high school diploma, driver's license and be at least 18 years of age. Visit your local police department or the department in the community where you want to eventually become a police chief. Find out when exams will be administered.
-
2
Maintain your physical fitness to prepare for the physical exam by sticking to a consistent workout schedule, which should include long-distance running. Take both the physical and written exams and pass both tests.
-
-
3
Enroll in police academy, which will provide additional physical and mental preparation for becoming a police officer, including self-defense, investigative procedures and traffic control.
-
4
Serve on the police force for a minimum of fie years before taking the lieutenant's exam. Pass the exam and become a lieutenant.
-
5
Continue to perform well in your job and accept promotions to positions such as deputy chief. Be patient and keep an eye out for chief of police openings.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Consider obtaining an associate's or bachelor's degree in criminal justice, as this may help you move up the ladder faster in police work.
College-level degrees are required for administrative positions such as sergeant and lieutenant. According to the Princeton Review, an associate's degree is needed for a sergeant position, 96 credits toward a bachelor's degree is needed for lieutenant, and a bachelor's degree to make captain.
Becoming a police chief is extremely competitive because of the number of veteran officers interested in the job. It may take up to 25 years to become a chief of police.
References
- Photo Credit Siri Stafford/Lifesize/Getty Images
