California has got one of the more demanding selection processes with their law enforcement officers. The California POST makes it possible for individuals to join the academy at their own expenditure without the need of undergoing the selection process, bear in mind that it’s really expensive.
Guidelines in becoming a police officer in California
1. Fulfill all of the requirements.
– Is required to be not less than 18 years of age, however some areas will have a higher age qualification.
– An American citizen.
– Will need to have a high school diploma or GED.
– Needs to carry out all reading and writing examination.
– Mustn’t possess any misdemeanor or felony infractions.
– Should have a legitimate California driving license.
– Carry out every one of the psychological and physical checks.
– Complete the background examination.
2. Often be aware of open houses, these sorts of events are perfect for potential applicants to understand more about the police academy, the specifications, incentives and examination cycles.
3. Once you select an agency that suits you, send out the necessary paperwork. Verify and take notice if you should complete the basic police academy training curriculum or not. A number of agencies can get applicants straight up and then transfer them to their academy. Therefore validate with the department you’re signing up to.
4. Be prepared for the written assessment. Check with the organization you are considering whether or not they’ve got obtainable study materials. These are helpful study resources which helps you get prepared for the test. When not obtainable in the department, you can purchase study materials on the web, this can be described as a worthy investment.
5. Maintain your physical conditioning as you get ready for the physical agility assessment also referred to as PAT. This is an obstacle course meant to replicate actual conditions that will examine an applicants quickness, quick thinking, and general health and fitness.
6. Shortly after concluding the PAT, be prepared for the oral interview and successfully pass the oral board. The oral board is generally a trio of police representatives that will further examine your ability to solve problems and communication abilities which will help them in identifying those who are capable of doing the job.
7. When you finally finish each of the examinations – actual physical exam, pre-employment written assessment along with the PAT. You will undergo more testing – a polygraph or the lie detector test, a psychological check-up and a background examination. It’s the final phase which will allow the police chief to know if the person is competent to be a part of the academy.
8. Competent applicants goes through a demanding training program in the police academy which often takes six months, during this period they’ll be in probationary or non-sworn in standing by which they won’t possess police power. Whenever an officer successfully finishes the academy education, they will be officially sworn in to be a police officer.
On a final note, more info on how to become a police officer in California can be seen in Randy Jetterson’s blog that also talks about the education requirements for a police officer.
