How old is too old?

[sgtbear111]

I was the oldest in my academy class at 38 hrs old. Retired at 54, could have gone to 60. In WA some in their early 50's have completed the academy. Just be in good shape. The younger folks will be watching you and you may find yourself in a leadership position while in the academy.

[gsxrdave]

Go for it. If you have a passion for it why not?
I just had my 44th birthday this AUG and I am in the process now.

I just took my swim test and it was to easy, 50 yards in long pants and a T shirt. No problem. I have a date to take the C.J. BAT on OCT 8th.

I am 44 chronically but most people guess me to be 34.
I am 5ft 11in about 210lbs. I'm in the gym 5 days a week and I am a brown belt in USA goju.

I know I will do good when I take the Physical agility test, my concern is the academic stuff.

I thing DEPT want copswith good common sence. Being strong and tuff is a plus but being street smart is somthing you get with
age.

Good luck. GSXRDAVE1@msn.com P.S. If any body has any advise or comments please feel free to E me or post a response.

Thanks.

[Charlie]

Kenpokev--

Unfortunately, even though you sound like you are in great shape, a lot of departments do have age limitations for a variety of reasons. Others have already noted A n example of what the cut-off age is for departments in their area or region.

Are you "too old?" I'd say not but the reality is that "mature" people on or about your age group have to deal with this issue. There are departments out there that don't have the age limitation cap but they are few. So, it amounts to you doing the research to find these departments and determine if any of them meet your expectations. I know, for instance, the Dallas Police Department here in TX does not have an age cap. The applicant only has to pass their physical agility test. I have heard of and seen on numerous occasions people who are in their 40's and 50's who have completed and graduated from the academy. And they're out working on the streets. Course, I would highly recommend that IF this suits your interests, I would contact the department recruiters directly and obtain more information.

Good luck.
--
Charlie

[Abom]

I agree. A lot of older adults (35+) were attending a local info session for Vancouver's PD. I think I was the youngest one in attendance, as I have just turned 18 :D

[Darin]

Abom, does the Vancouver PD hire 18 year olds? Almost all the agencies in the US require that you be 21.

[canuckofapeach]

Darin:

The minimum age is 19

The average recruit is 26

[Abom]

Originally posted by canuckofapeach
Darin:

The minimum age is 19

The average recruit is 26

Yep, that's right. I was told at the info session they're trying to bring that down to around 24 to 25, which is just about the age I will be when I finish my post secondary education

[Kenpokev]

Thanks for all the great feedback.

I have been encouraged by all senior staff, including the big boss to go for it. They have known me for a number of years as a result of my volunteer activities with the department. A number of staff members are giving me pointers on preparations for the various tests, but they all seem to think it won't be a problem.

I am very excited at the prospect and I'm preparing myself with academic and physical preparation.

Thanks again for your input. I'll post back as the process continues. My initial test is next month.

Be safe,

KK

[Kenpokev]

News Flash:

"Olde Phart passes written test, family and friends amazed"

Well, I took the written (tough test) and passed it, so I'm due to complete the PT and Oral board shortly. Still feeling enthusiastic and excited in anticipation of new challenges.

I'll let you know if this old fella makes it past the next stage.

[Jynkxxie]

Good Luck to you! You are not that old....I have heard of older people getting in...much older...LMAO

[Chick]

Originally posted by sw2copgirl
I was 47 when I applied to my department, not sure if my age would be a negative thing. I was hired, beating out some young bucks.

Unless you know up front about departmental age limits, go for it. You have nothing to lose.

This is a great inspiration.

[Kenpokev]

News Flash
"Old Phart survives physical fitness test..." Film at 11

Well, that was tough...not. The PT test is a pass-fail arrangement and is uniform, with no consideration for age, gender, size, etc. Other than the 300 yrd sprint and 1.5 mile run, nary a sweat was broken. Though I do detest running.

The Oral board was an interesting experience. They were looking at how well a candidate could communicate, as well as the thinking process that went into situational questions. I asked some clarifying questions and stated my assumptions in forming my answers. I believe this reflected well, as it demonstrated that I was thinking about secondary aspects of the scenarios.

I was told shortly after the board that I did very well.

On to the background phase...

Still highly motivated and focused. My obsessive nature has me reading voraciously through all sorts of law enforcement training documents and text.

Any reading recommendations?

Thanks for the support!

KK