As per the information published by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were 72,380 Police and Sherriff’s Patrol Officers working in the state of California in the year 2019. This number puts California at the top among states with the highest employment level for this occupation in the US.
If you are interested in stopping crime and putting criminals behind bars, then a career as a police officer can be a good fit for you.
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Job Outlook
Police and Detectives will enjoy a 5% increase in jobs during 2019 and 2029 in the US. California had the highest mean annual salary for Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers ($105,220) in the year 2019.
Steps to Become a Police Officer in California
The steps you need to become a police officer in California are:
Get the Required Education
The educational requirement to join the police force is a high school diploma or an equivalent GED. A college degree will give you an edge in the job market.
Apply at the Police Departments
Get in touch with your local police departments and check if there are any vacant positions for entry-level police officers. You can also check the requirements needed to join the force.
Complete the Application
Complete the application process to apply for the position of a police officer. Make sure you fill out the form carefully so that no objections are raised later on.
Pass the Screening Process
The is one of the most critical steps of the process. The department will verify the information on your form through different sources.
Clear the Written and Reading Exams
Once the information is verified, you will be asked to clear a written and reading exam.
Clear the Interview
You will then be asked to come for an interview. This interview will be conducted by a panel, and it will give the panel a chance to see your interpersonal skills and confidence level.
Clear the Psychological and Medical Exams
If you clear the interview, you will have to pass a thorough medical as well as psychological exam.
Complete Police Academy Training
You will have to clear training at a police academy. This can take a few months to complete.
Duration to Become a Police Officer in California
It can take you a while to become a police officer in California. The duration will depend on your education, the police department’s requirements and how long you take to clear every step of the process.
Requirements to Become a Police Officer in California
-
Complete the required education.
-
Apply at the police department.
-
Complete the application.
-
Pass the screening process.
-
Pass the writing and reading examinations.
-
Pass the interview.
-
Get through the medical and psychological tests.
-
Complete training at the police academy.
How Much Can I Earn as a Police Officer in California?
Police officers get outstanding salaries in California. $105,220 was the mean annual income of Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers employed in the state in 2019.