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Oct 13, 2024 · To become a police officer in Florida, you need to be at least 19 years old, a U.S. citizen, have a high school diploma or GED, pass a basic abilities test, complete police academy training, and pass the state certification exam.
- Overview
- What does a police officer do?
- How to become a police officer in Florida
- Tips for becoming a police officer in Florida
Police officers work to enforce laws and protect the people and property in their communities. If you live in Florida, you may need to meet specific skill and training requirements to become a police officer. Understanding the steps you need to take to become a police officer in Florida may help you meet the necessary qualifications and find a posi...
A police officer enforces the law in a particular area. They can go on patrols, respond to emergency situations, direct traffic and investigate criminal activity. In large cities, police officers may work on particular types of crimes, such as theft, fraud or drug trafficking.Related: How To Become a Police Officer
1. Meet the minimum qualifications
According to Florida state regulations, there are some requirements you have to meet before becoming a police officer. You must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. Other requirements include U.S. citizenship and a valid driver's license.
2. Obtain an affidavit of application
An affidavit is an official document that confirms a particular statement that you can use in a court of law. In Florida, you need to complete an affidavit that states you meet all the other qualifications to become a police officer and send it to a criminal justice employment agency for approval. You can find this document and other paperwork you may need on the Florida Department of Law Enforcement website.
3. Complete a background check
Some additional requirements for becoming a police officer in Florida include having no prior criminal record or a dishonorable discharge from the military. You can provide proof of this by undergoing a background check. The state may also ask you to provide fingerprints for identification purposes.
Consider getting a bachelor's degree
While most police stations accept anyone who finishes a high school education, a more advanced degree may make you a more competitive candidate. Many police officers pursue a criminal justice degree to learn more about the criminal justice industry and to increase their qualifications. Consider researching local colleges and their criminal justice programs to determine if a bachelor's degree is right for you.Related: FAQ: Do You Need a Degree To Become a Cop?
Research your specific county
Some counties in Florida may have additional rules for becoming a police officer that can differ from the state regulations. For example, some counties may require an associate's degree or higher before applying to become a police officer. Consider looking at your area's individual rules before enrolling in a police academy.
Review handbooks
The state of Florida has a police officer handbook that you can obtain. This handbook contains valuable information that may help you pass the BAT and certification exam. Try to study the handbook to learn more about the roles and responsibilities of a Florida police officer.
The steps for becoming a police officer in Florida include meeting basic requirements to completing the police academy, passing exams, and becoming certified. If you're concerned about maintaining law and order and want to serve your community, becoming a police officer can be a rewarding career path.
Pass the Basic Abilities Test (BAT), if necessary. This online examination is used to measure the minimum competencies needed to be a law enforcement officer in Florida. The test is 97 questions and must be completed within 1.5 hours. You can sign up and take this test through Pearson VUE.
All individuals seeking Florida certification as a law enforcement, correctional, or correctional probation officer must first pass the State Officer Certification Examination (SOCE). Prior to taking the SOCE individuals must first complete a basic recruit training program at a Commission-certified training school.
In order to work as a Tampa police officer, candidates must meet state requirements and: Have an associate degree or completion of two years of college (60 semester or 90 quarter hours in total), or hold a high school diploma and have three years prior law enforcement experience or three years of military experience.
Before a candidate can apply to become a law enforcement officer in Florida, they must meet the minimum qualifications outlined below: Age: Must be 19 years of age or older. Citizenship: Must be a United States citizen. Education: Must be a high school graduate with a high school diploma.
