Criminal Justice Careers - Qualifications For Becoming A Police Officer
For most agencies Civil Service Regulation govern police and detective work.
Candidates to become police officers must be at least twenty years of age. In the Federal government candidates must be at least 21 years of age. Also in the federal government candidates must not be more than 37 years of age.
Most candidates will be required to pass physical examinations including test for hearing, eye sight, along with strength and physical conditioning.
Written exams are usually required to determine the candidate's appointment.
In larger police departments a high school degree is required. In state and federal law enforcement agencies a college degree is required. A degree from an accredited criminal justice school will earn you additional points toward achieving your goal.
As part of the interview process the candidate will be interviewed several times.
In addition a law enforcement candidate will have a thorough background check.
Most applicants can expect to take lie detector and drug tests before being sworn into their position.
Assuming you've passed the points mentioned above you'll be well on your way to becoming a police officer. Don't get frustrated if you don't receive the first job you apply for. Keep trying and sooner than later you'll achieve your goal of becoming a police officer or other rewarding criminal justice career.