Police officers in Florida work very hard to make sure that the state's citizens' lives and properties are safe. According to the latest estimates provided by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 39,090 Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers were working in the state of Florida in the year 2019.
Police officers in Florida or anywhere else in the US investigate crimes and apprehend criminals. These custodians of the law put their lives on the line for others almost daily. If you think you have what it takes to become a police officer in Florida, then continue reading.
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Job Outlook
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that Police and Detectives will enjoy a 5% growth in job opportunities across the United States from 2019 to 2029.
Steps to Become a Police Officer in Florida
This is how you can become a police officer in Florida.
Complete the Educational Requirements
To join most police departments in Florida, you need a GED or a high school diploma. Certain cities might ask for better educational credentials. To become a correctional probation officer, you will require a Bachelor’s degree.
Clear the Written Test
This is the first step of the assessment process. You will have to clear an initial written test once your application has been accepted.
Clear the Physical Exam
You will have to pass a strict physical exam. Since police officers have to be physically fit, it is mandatory to pass this test.
Clear a Background Examination
Once you have cleared the written test and the physical examination, you will have to pass a thorough background screening.
Pass Drugs and Polygraph Tests
In this phase, you will need to clear a drug test and a polygraph exam.
Undergo Medical Examination
This is normally the last step of the process. You will have to undergo a thorough medical examination to clear the entire process.
Complete Training at a Police Academy
You will need to complete training at a police academy. You will be given firearms training and taught about legal procedures, etc. It will take you around 6 to 7 months to graduate from the academy.
Duration to Become a Police Officer in Florida
It will take you around 1.5 to 2.5 years, after getting the required education, to complete all the above-mentioned steps/requirements to join the police force.
What Are the Requirements to Become a Police Officer in Florida?
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Should be 19 years old at least.
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Should have US citizenship.
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Should have obtained high school education or GED.
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Clear the written test.
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Clear the physical exam.
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Clear background examination.
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Clear drugs and polygraph tests.
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Clear a thorough medical examination.
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Complete police academy training.
How Much Can I Earn as a Police Officer in Florida?
$60,720 was the mean annual income of Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers in Florida in 2019.