The standards and requirements for becoming a police officer in Alabama are set by the Alabama Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission.The first step in the process is to be hired by a law enforcement agency.You can perform low-level duties, such as crowd control, once you are certified.Within six months, your department will work to enroll you in a training academy where you will learn more about the position and earn your certification as a police officer.
Step 1: Meet all the qualifications.
Before you even consider becoming a police officer, you must meet the minimum qualifications set by the Alabama Peace Officer's Standard and Training Commission.You have to be in good health and moral character.To become a cadet or a sworn law enforcement officer, you must be over the age of 17 and 20.The minimum age888-607-3166 to become a state trooper or sheriff's deputy is 21.You should be a US citizen.Have a high school or GED.A three-year record of driving is required for a valid driver's license.Have no felony convictions or pardons.Not have they been discharged from the military.
Step 2: Ready to make a decision.
Taking on the job of a police officer is a lifestyle change that is very different from other jobs.Before you begin the work and training888-607-888-607-3166, you should investigate it and make sure that you really want it.You can join the Police Explorers in some places.In many cities, this organization helps youth up to the age of 20 learn about the job of being a police officer.Ask your local police station if there is a group in your area.
Step 3: Get started with some training.
A high school diploma or GED is required to become a police officer in Alabama.You can get even more qualified with an advanced degree.In a field like criminal justice, an associate's degree can be earned in two years.You can increase your qualifications as a police officer by studying criminal justice.It will help you decide if this field is right for you.
Step 4: You have to build up your physical qualifications.
To become a police officer in Alabama, you will have to pass certain physical tests.To prepare, you need to work on your strength and stamina.You can start by running outside or at a track.You can join a health club or YMCA.You can hire a personal trainer at these clubs for a reasonable fee.The trainer will be able to help you develop a good workout plan if you explain what your objectives are.To become a police officer, you need to run 1.5 miles in 15 minutes or less.In 1 minute, you can complete 22 push-ups.In 1 minute, you can complete 25 sit-ups.
Step 5: Go for a checkup.
If you want to be a police officer, you need to get a statement from a doctor that you are in good health and can do the job.
Step 6: A department should be selected.
There are 417 different law enforcement agencies in Alabama.You should look at some of the possibilities and decide which would be the best fit for you.You can choose based on location, type of duties, or your own preferences.There are police departments in cities and towns throughout the state.Your duties might include traffic control, crime investigation, or something in between.Alabama has 67 counties.Sheriff's offices investigate crimes within their county jurisdiction, work to enhance public understanding, and are generally charged with prisoner supervision and incarceration.State troopers are assigned to different highway patrol offices.State troopers investigate a wide range of criminal activity, including homicides, and enforce traffic laws on the highways throughout the state.
Step 7: You must complete and submit an application.
To become a certified police officer in Alabama, you need to select the department where you would like to work and submit an application.You can pick up the application form at the police station or the city hall personnel office.The form needs to be completed and returned.Until openings become available, the form will be held on file.Ask about any current openings for police officers when you submit your application.If there are no openings, your application will be held on file for a year.If there are any openings, you should check back periodically.
Step 8: Personal and professional references should be kept up to date.
It is part of the screening process to check references.Your previous employers, coworkers, family members, and other people will be contacted by the personnel department.If you want to rely on someone as a reference, you should notify them.Let them know that you are applying to become a police officer, and that they may be contacted.
Step 9: The ability and physical agility test are required to pass.
As part of being hired by a police department, you will have to demonstrate your physical skills.Agility and ability are divided into two parts.The agility test requires you to complete a timed run of 150 yards (100 m), push a vehicle 15 feet (4.6 m) on a level surface, climb a 6-foot fence, and walk a balance beam.The test requires you to complete 25 sit-ups in 60 seconds, 22 push ups in 62 seconds and run 1.5 miles in 15 minutes and 28 seconds.
Step 10: A training academy should be selected.
When you are hired by a law enforcement department, it is their responsibility to enroll you in a training academy.There are ten approved training academies in the state of Alabama.Different programs are offered by each one.Your supervisor will assist you in selecting and applying for a program at one of the academies.
Step 11: You have to apply early.
You have to submit your application for the training academy several weeks prior to the start of the program.The application package needs to be sent early enough to arrive on time.There are requirements for attending each training academy.The Law Enforcement Academy at Tuscaloosa has all of its forms and application materials on its website.
Step 12: Go to the training academy.
These programs last a long time.You will either be housed on-site or at nearby hotels at your expense.The training you receive at the academy will help you become a police officer.Civil and criminal law training includes Driving instruction, Weapons training, Combat training and defensive tactics.
Step 13: Become a law enforcement officer.
At the end of your training, you will take a series of tests to show your readiness to work as a police officer.If you pass the required tests, you will get a 70% score on the written exams and earn your certification.The first aid exam can be passed with a score of 70% or better.You can study for three days if you don't pass on your first attempt.You can get a 70% score on the legal issues exam.Pass the agility test.You took the same test to get hired.During the academy, you will be trained to maintain your physical skills.You have to pass a firearms course to get a passing score.