4 answers
Myles
Student
Vacaville
3
Questions
Asked
1110 views
How do I become involved in law enforcement?
I am 21 years old and I'm interested in law enforcement because I have many family members in it, I just don't know where to start with my career.
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4 answers
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1831
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Hi Myles,
What's your background so far?
Most departments require at least a 2-year degree, in something such as Criminal Justice.
I recommend getting into a "citizens academy" which is offered by many police/sheriff departments. It gives you the opportunity to meet officers and go on ride-alongs. https://www.cityofvacaville.gov/government/police-department/getting-involved/community-law-enforcement-academy
As you start towards preparing yourself to be a police officer, you want to make sure you will present the best possible version of yourself as you go through applicant processing. This means: reduce the number of credit cards you have, pay down or pay-off your bills, develop and maintain positive relations with neighbors, employers, friends, significant others; keep a good driving record; make sure you register for the draft; physical fitness; etc.
Hope this helps!
Kim
What's your background so far?
Most departments require at least a 2-year degree, in something such as Criminal Justice.
I recommend getting into a "citizens academy" which is offered by many police/sheriff departments. It gives you the opportunity to meet officers and go on ride-alongs. https://www.cityofvacaville.gov/government/police-department/getting-involved/community-law-enforcement-academy
As you start towards preparing yourself to be a police officer, you want to make sure you will present the best possible version of yourself as you go through applicant processing. This means: reduce the number of credit cards you have, pay down or pay-off your bills, develop and maintain positive relations with neighbors, employers, friends, significant others; keep a good driving record; make sure you register for the draft; physical fitness; etc.
Hope this helps!
Kim
Shane Clymer
Physical Security / Security Operations Center
18
Answers
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Updated
Shane’s Answer
Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Law Enforcement Career
1. Choose Your Path
Think about which area of law enforcement excites you the most. You could work with local police, state police, federal agencies like the FBI, or even the military police. Each path has its own unique requirements, so picking one helps you focus.
2. Meet Basic Requirements
Check if you meet the basic requirements, such as age (usually 21 or older), having a high school diploma or GED, a clean criminal record, good moral character, and a valid driver’s license.
3. Get Ready Physically and Mentally
Stay active and fit to prepare for the physical demands of the academy. Practice problem-solving, communication, and handling stress to be mentally prepared.
4. Consider Education or Certifications
Look into courses in criminal justice at community colleges or online. Certificates in security or law enforcement can also be beneficial. Programs like Job Corps can help you gain valuable credentials.
5. Apply to a Police Academy or Entry-Level Role
Many departments have cadet programs or offer pre-academy training. Starting as a security guard or corrections officer can be a great first step.
6. Network and Seek Mentorship
Reach out to family members or friends in law enforcement. Ask about ride-alongs, job shadowing, or advice from their colleagues to gain insight and guidance.
7. Prepare for the Hiring Process
Get ready for the hiring steps, which include a written exam, physical fitness test, background check, psychological evaluation, and an oral board interview.
Your local police barracks should have all the information you would need to get you started. Good Luck!
1. Choose Your Path
Think about which area of law enforcement excites you the most. You could work with local police, state police, federal agencies like the FBI, or even the military police. Each path has its own unique requirements, so picking one helps you focus.
2. Meet Basic Requirements
Check if you meet the basic requirements, such as age (usually 21 or older), having a high school diploma or GED, a clean criminal record, good moral character, and a valid driver’s license.
3. Get Ready Physically and Mentally
Stay active and fit to prepare for the physical demands of the academy. Practice problem-solving, communication, and handling stress to be mentally prepared.
4. Consider Education or Certifications
Look into courses in criminal justice at community colleges or online. Certificates in security or law enforcement can also be beneficial. Programs like Job Corps can help you gain valuable credentials.
5. Apply to a Police Academy or Entry-Level Role
Many departments have cadet programs or offer pre-academy training. Starting as a security guard or corrections officer can be a great first step.
6. Network and Seek Mentorship
Reach out to family members or friends in law enforcement. Ask about ride-alongs, job shadowing, or advice from their colleagues to gain insight and guidance.
7. Prepare for the Hiring Process
Get ready for the hiring steps, which include a written exam, physical fitness test, background check, psychological evaluation, and an oral board interview.
Your local police barracks should have all the information you would need to get you started. Good Luck!
Kevin Czora
Law enforcement
37
Answers
Amherst, New York
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
It kind of depends on where you live. Even jurisdiction to jurisdiction, requirements will vary. As mentioned, many require 60 credit hours, or military service.
I was very involved in our hiring process, and can attest to the following:
No arrests, limited alcohol consumption, get physically prepared, no drugs, stay away from associates who are not reputable, no traffic tickets, volunteer in your community.
Also practice taking civil service exams.
A thorough background will take place, and social media will be scrutinized. Stay off of it, or closely monitor what you post.
This is just a few of the things you can start focusing on. If you should have further questions, please dont hesitate to ask. Good luck!
I was very involved in our hiring process, and can attest to the following:
No arrests, limited alcohol consumption, get physically prepared, no drugs, stay away from associates who are not reputable, no traffic tickets, volunteer in your community.
Also practice taking civil service exams.
A thorough background will take place, and social media will be scrutinized. Stay off of it, or closely monitor what you post.
This is just a few of the things you can start focusing on. If you should have further questions, please dont hesitate to ask. Good luck!
Martha Hepler, CPA, CFE, CAMS
CPA
5
Answers
Bentonville, Arkansas
Updated
Martha’s Answer
I am unsure if you are aiming for state, local, or federal, but I spent a few years as a forensic accountant at the FBI and also attended the FBI Academy for new agent training. I say that for a few reasons--
1) You can be in more of support role, like I did, using a technical skillset (accounting) to do vital work while still being in law enforcement- not just by being an officer, etc.
2) During my time at the FBI, I came across people from all walks of life with such a wide variety of backgrounds! Most were former military or former state/local police who spent time in those careers first before joining the bureau.
If you do decide to go federal law enforcement- whether that is DEA, HSI, Secret Service, ATF, FBI, or another federal agency- know that they accept people from all backgrounds/careers, so plenty of opportunities no matter where you're coming from!
1) You can be in more of support role, like I did, using a technical skillset (accounting) to do vital work while still being in law enforcement- not just by being an officer, etc.
2) During my time at the FBI, I came across people from all walks of life with such a wide variety of backgrounds! Most were former military or former state/local police who spent time in those careers first before joining the bureau.
If you do decide to go federal law enforcement- whether that is DEA, HSI, Secret Service, ATF, FBI, or another federal agency- know that they accept people from all backgrounds/careers, so plenty of opportunities no matter where you're coming from!