How Do You Become A Police Officer in Illinois

Illinois state police officers are responsible for preventing crime and apprehending criminals. These brave men and women put their lives on the line daily to safeguard the lives and properties of the state’s citizens. If you have what it takes to be a police officer in the state of Illinois, then read this article.

Should I Become a Police Officer in Illinois?

Illinois had the fifth highest number of Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers among all US states in 2019, with 29,460 people working in this occupation. This data has been taken from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Education Required

A high school diploma or GED is the minimum requirement

Training

Training at a police academy is required

Licenses/Certifications

Required 

Key Skills

 Physical fitness, Strong leadership, Good communication, Patience, etc.

Annual Mean Salary (2019) – National

$67,600 (Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers)

Annual Mean Salary (2019) – Illinois

$78,350 (Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers)

Job Outlook (2019-29)

5%

 

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Job Outlook

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics has projected that Police and Detectives will enjoy an employment growth of 5% between 2019 and 2029 across the US.

Steps to Become a Police Officer in Illinois

You have to complete the following steps to become a police officer in Illinois:

Get a High School Diploma or a GED

You will have to complete a high school education or obtain a GED certificate to meet the minimum educational requirements to become a police officer in Illinois.

Submit an Application

To start the process of becoming a police officer in Illinois, you will have to submit an online application.

Take the Written Entrance Exam

You will have to schedule and then subsequently pass a written exam to start the recruitment process.

Clear a Physical Test

You will have to clear an extensive physical fitness test. This test will gauge your fitness level to see if you are fit enough to become a police officer.

Clear a Background Investigation

You will have to clear a background check too. Every detail in your application form will be verified through different sources.

Take the Oral Interview

You will have to take an oral interview usually conducted by a board. This will be a two-part interview so make sure you are prepared.

Complete Medical and Psychological Exams

You will have to complete a thorough medical and psychological exam. These two exams will test where you stand physically and if you are mentally stable to perform your duties as a police officer.

Complete Police Academy Training

You will have to train at a police academy approved by the Illinois State Police. You will have to complete this training within six months of being initially hired.

Duration to Become a Police Officer in Illinois

The timeframe to become a police officer in Illinois will depend on your education, the time it takes you to complete the entire process, and how quickly you complete the training at the police academy. Approximately, it can take you somewhere between 1.5 to 2 years after completing your education to join the police force.

Requirements to Become a Police Officer in Illinois

  1. Get a high school diploma or a GED.
  2. Should be a US Citizen.
  3. Be 21 years of age at least when you are hired.
  4. Should have a valid driver’s license.
  5. Should have a clean criminal record.
  6. Complete the entire recruitment process.
  7. Complete police academy training.

How Much Will I Earn as a Police Officer in Illinois?

Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers in Illinois are very well paid. They earned $78,350 in mean annual income in 2019 as per the information provided by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

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