I want to be in law enforcement.............what steps do I take?

Question

Thanks for the answers........

Answer 1

http://www.theblueline.com/

The above link will tell you about employment opportunities all over the country. You need to find out who is testing and go take the tests. Most departments generate a "list" that they hire from for up to 2 years. Taking the initial test is the first step to getting your name on said list(s).

Answer 2

Well, it all depends upon your age, education level, and whether or not you have any prior military service. Most of the bigger departments around here that run their own police academies will take people with no prior law enforcement experience IF you are ex-military OR you have enough college hours, OR a combination of the two. The smaller departments don't run their own police academies so they generally want only officers who are already certified. In my state you have to not only have been through an accredited academy, but also you must take and pass a state-administered examination to get certified. If you haven't done so already, you could take some criminal justice classes at a local community college or also participate in some "ride along" programs that many departments have just to make sure that this is what you really wish to do. All of these things I just mentioned are good if you want to be a Police Officer. If you only want to work in the detentions/corrections field, most Sheriff's Departments around here will hire you right off the street with no experience at all to work in the jails here. They will also train you. It all depends upon your specific situation, of course.

Answer 3

Most departments will not look at an applicant under the age of 21.
A college degree, at least an Associate Degree, in criminal justice is a plus.
Decent physical shape, you are going to have to pass a physical fitness test.
A clean criminal history; at least no felony crimes.
Military Police experience used to be a big plus, not so much anymore, but still good to have.

Answer 4

You would need to check with the police department, sheriff's office, or correctional facility in which you are interested in. You will then have to fill out an application, do an assessment test, oral board, polygraph, shooting test, etc. After all that is done and you are selected, you will have to go to the police academy for some time for training. (in SC, it is 9 weeks). Hope this helps.

Answer 5

check with your local department and put in an application