How to Get Into a SWAT Team
Many law enforcement agencies have an elite squad known as the Special Weapons and Tactical Unit, or SWAT team. Members of SWAT teams are highly trained and specialize in high risk situations such as hostage situations and counter-terrorism missions. Becoming a member of the team takes years of experience as a law enforcement officer, rigorous physical training, the passing of written and oral tests, and doing well on extensive psychological tests.
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Instructions
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Get a job in law enforcement, such as a police officer or sheriff's deputy. You must have at least three years of experience before becoming a SWAT team member.
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Apply to be a SWAT team member as soon as you've spent enough time on the force in order to be chosen as a candidate.
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Take SWAT training classes offered by your law enforcement agency. You'll be trained in a variety of skills that vary from agency to agency. Sniper training, first aid, K-9 training, use of explosives, successful negotiation and weaponry are all subjects routinely taught to SWAT candidates.
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Pass a number of physical fitness tests. These will include timed running tests as well as strength and stamina tests to be certain you can handle the rigorous physical demands of becoming a SWAT team member.
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Pass a firearms test. You must have extensive firearms knowledge and be able to shoot well enough to pass various shooting and skill tests.
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Undergo a psychological evaluation to determine whether you are mentally capable of handling the pressure associated with becoming a SWAT team member. Many candidates pass everything except the psychological exam. You must be mature, confident and responsible, and capable of handling extremely stressful situations.
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Answer questions for a review board. This is generally made up of SWAT team members and law enforcement personnel who will ask questions to make a final determination.
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