An applicant for employment must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a citizen of the United States (born or naturalized) or a permanent resident of the United States
  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Possess a high school diploma, a "General Educational Development" (GED) equivalent, or have a college degree; from an accredited educational institution approved by the U.S. Department of Education
  • Be willing to work various shifts

An applicant must be able to successfully complete the following:

  • Reading comprehension test
  • Physical fitness test
    • Minimal on Cooper's PT Standard of:
      • Pass a basic Physical Fitness test to be hired in Corrrections
      • Academy Cadet 5% to qualify for entry into the POST academy
  • Interview
  • Pre-polygraph exam
  • Extensive background investigation
  • Post-polygraph exam
  • Psychological exam
  • Medical exam and drug screen

New Cooper Age and Gender Base Standards for Law Enforcement (PDF)