The requirements to become a police officer reflect the high standards of departments across the nation. Since police officers must uphold the law and set a good example, they need to be physically fit, intelligent and ethical. Although specific requirements depend on individual cities and states, this list can give you a good idea of what police departments are looking for:
Age. The age requirement will vary, but the Houston Police Department provides a good rule of thumb that an applicant should be between 21 and 44 years old. However, the NYPD sets its upper limit at age 35.
Residency Requirements. Again, this depends on where you want to apply, but some police departments require its forces to live within city limits. Others simply require that you live nearby.
Physical Fitness. Even though you'll be whipped into shape at the police academy, you still need to meet minimum health standards. Regular exercise that focuses on building your strength and increasing your aerobic capacity will help prepare you for any physical test, and several police departments provide training packets so potential officers can get ready.
A Clean Record. If you want to uphold the law, you should follow the law. Some smudges on your record, such as moving violations, can be overlooked, but that all depends on the standards of the department to which you apply. However, departments will pass on you if you have committed a felony.
Citizenship. Anyone aspiring to serve as a police officer must be a United States citizen or be in the process of applying for citizenship.
Education. It is advised that you have a bachelors or associates. Specific law enforcement degrees are not required. Some departments, such as the NYPD, allow a high-school diploma plus two years of military service.
Language Skills. If you don't know another language, you may want to start picking one up. It can be a big advantage, whether you are out in the field or aiming for a promotion.
Knowledge of Proper Use of Firearms. Even if you already know how to use a gun, you will learn even more rules and regulations at the police academy.
Understanding of the law. A police officer's job is to uphold the law, and it doesn't do much good if you don't know what is a crime and what isn't. You also need to know the boundaries of your own work according to the law.
 | Law enforcement careers aren't limited to becoming a police officer or FBI agent. If you want to serve the community by helping uphold the law, you have many different options depending on your interests. |
 | Want to know how to become a private investigator? You can learn the trade either at school or on the job, but what you need to do will also depend on your interests and where you live. |
Want to know how to become an FBI agent? FBI agents are among the most prestigious members of law enforcement, so joining their ranks is difficult. |
Once you have the basic FBI agent qualifications, you will have access to many opportunities. In general, FBI agents are an elite group, and they often handle the most high-profile cases and the most demanding jobs, no matter the field. |
The duties of a police officer are the same for the first few years when an officer joins the force. This is what you can expect to be doing after you graduate from the police academy. |
