How To Become a Police Officer

Police officers are essential to a safe society, but the job can be dangerous and stressful. Police officers are often extremely dedicated individuals who have a strong sense of duty. Becoming a police officer is not always easy, but is a goal that can be accomplished with some hard work and careful planning.

1. Get a high school education. In order to become a police officer, a person needs a high school diploma or its equivalent.
2. Get some higher education. Although usually not required, getting an associate's degree (2-year degree) or a bachelor's degree (4-year degree) is recommended and can help you out in the competitive application process. Criminal justice courses are especially helpful.
3. Maintain physical fitness. Playing organized sports can help you keep in shape, as well as look good on your application to a police academy. Physical fitness is key for anyone interested in becoming a police officer, as you will have to pass a series of physical tests.
4. Act responsibly. If you want to become a police officer, you cannot be a convicted felon. Candidates for a police academy or a job in a specific police department have background checks run on them, and even if there are no felonies on your record, other things can be a red flag. Drug violations look especially bad, but too many traffic violations or other indiscretions may reflect poorly on you.
5. Take the civil service examination. This exam is usually given through the police department that you apply to. There are study guides and classes available for this examination.
6. Take more examinations and tests. Depending upon the specific police department, an applicant could need to take various tests. Common tests are written examinations, physical tests, hearing and vision tests, drug tests, personality tests, and lie detector tests.
7. Attend a police academy. If your application to become a police officer is successful, you will attend a police academy, usually for about 3-4 months. The training at a police academy includes classroom instruction, physical training, on the job situational training, safe use of firearms, self-defense, and first aid.
8. Pursue continuing education. Police officers often attend workshops and seminars throughout their careers in order to deal with changing needs and cultures in a society. If you wish to become a police officer, you should be aware of the need for continuing education.

Although becoming a police officer can be challenging, the process will prepare you for the rigors of police work. If a career as a police officer appeals to you, your community can almost certainly use another dedicated law enforcement officer!