How To Become A Police Officer In California

Be a citizen either through birth or naturalization.

How to become a police officer in california. Be at least 18 years old. For clarification please see our frequently asked questions in the footer tab. Age requirements vary from one jurisdiction to another.

If you have any questions regarding the police services act requirements or the medical physical standards be sure to contact the police service you intend on applying to. Police academy training generally lasts about 12 14 weeks. Apply to become a police officer.

Becoming a police officer in california requires formal training and may also require experience. The california commission on peace officer standards and training ca post oversees the standards and requirements to become a cop in california. Read on to learn more about law enforcement duties how to become a police officer police officer training salary benefits and career outcomes.

California post has a basic course waiver bcw process for individuals who want to become california peace officers and have completed at least 664 hours of general law enforcement training including a general law enforcement basic course of at least 200 hours and have at least one year of successful sworn general law enforcement experience. The application process for cops consists of more than just completing an application. To become a police officer accepted applicants need to complete a rigorous training program.

Either have a high school diploma or an equivalent ged certificate. A high school diploma is the minimum educational qualification and some organizations prefer or require a college education. Please ensure you are aware of and meet all requirements involved in becoming a police officer.

Although there are minimum state wide requirements that apply to all aspiring police recruits local police departments may impose additional standards above the minimum. Police officers in california include. While this process varies with each police department you can typically expect some combination of the following.