Hello all, How is being a cop?

[Kimble]

My question is if these are there guidelines for applicants will it change once I get further in the hiring process?

The hiring policy doesn't change, but you will be looked at under a microscope, and compared to the other applicants. If you have more blemishes in your background than other applicants, it's likely they will be the ones selected for slots available.

[Datbadguy]

Yeah, I figured that much. Its funny since being on this site I have become more nervous than I was. Everyone here is really honest and tells it how it is. Friends and family that I know that are LEO, tell me a little different.

[MP_Steve]

(smoked some pot did some acid)

I'm not in your area, nor can I give you advice about the departments in your area. Different agencies will DQ you for different things.

For example, the Maine State Police will DQ for anything more than minor pot useage in your youth. A friend of mine did acid in high school, and was turned down by MSP but got picked up at a different agency (Capitol Security).

Good luck in your application process.

[Datbadguy]

I know there are different standards at all departments. A new reason for becoming LEO - so I can get into the restricted area on RP. This forum is great and I cant imagine how critical it is in there. Take the written and PAT in a couple weeks. Wish me luck I need it

[kazz]

G'day from Australia and welcome to RP.

There is no age limit here in Victoria, it's against the law to discriminate because of age. It's hard to put an old head on young shoulders, so you might have that advantage over the 21 yr olds.

No offense to any mature 21 yr olds. :p

[NyPd Sgt ALU]

What about having tattoos? I have some art work on arms, chest and back. Will this be an issue?

well I don't know if your trying to get on NYPD since i see your from NY but here they just made a rule for new hires that you cannot have any visible tattoos on your neck or on your arms showing with a short sleeve shirt on.

[Rhinod56]

definately not too old, but also depends on where you apply. In the state of Illinois, unless you are already certified or were at a previous point in time, age limit is 35. Most everywhere else I've looked doesn't care how old you are, as long as you can do the job. Last place I tested in Arizona, guy I was talking with and counting sit-ups for was in his early 40's. Good luck w/e you test!

[Crimijuswoman]

Like you, I am just now a criminal justice student, getting into le field when finished. I consider my self very fortunate that my law instructor is a retired state trooper and helps me tremendously. In my state we do not have an age limit, as long as you can do the physical aspects and pass the rest of the test with any one else. He sit me down on day one and explained that it might be more difficult, he by no means "candy coated" things for me. He was right. In the beginning as I started to train it was rough! Putting it mildly. I feel I had an advantage though, I use to run marathons and love to run, its the other stuff that had me whipped. One year into school though, it has got alot easier and I know I will make it. Fyi, even though most women don't like to tell their age, I don't mind, I am 37. Good luck and you will make it!

[CW2BradAustin]

I'm 29 Going on 30 and just looking. 35 isn't to old at all. You hear of, 40's, even 50's getting hired in Law Enforcement work. I wouldn't sweat it.