Hello all, How is being a cop?

[Datbadguy]

First post on the site. I am a 30 year old male who is finally going after the dream of becoming a cop. I became a young father and never had the time or money to pursue the career. Now after 12 long years doing physical labor I have provided a great foundation for my family and am looking to become a Police Officer. Alot of people are telling me I am to old and my time has passed. Regardless of what they think I have applied and am taking the tests next month. Is my age going to be a negative factor in my attempt?

[mcsap]

30 is NOT too old. We just accepted an app from a 53 yr old lady.

You will need to make sure you are in shape and that your background is up to par.

[Law Knight]

My Dad got hired at the age of 35, so I think you would be okay.

[qpd158]

Despite being hated by half the city I live in. Having to be careful what food establishments I take my family too, make sure you check all food from a fast food joint, and not being able to put the same food that the welfare families can on, because I make too much money to qualify its great....

No seriously, I didn't start my career until I was 30. Makes you behind the game in some aspects, but you should be a bit more mature and able to handle some really stressful situations better since you have lived in the real world, instead of coming right out of college......GOOD LUCK

[Datbadguy]

:confused:How intense are the agility test that you have to complete after the written test? I am in great shape for my age but I am not 18 anymore and am worried I will not be able to keep up with the youngsters. Background should be good, I have never got in any trouble with the law my entire life except for a seat belt ticket (which I usually always wear) and speeding tickets when I was 17-20 years old. Havent done any drugs (smoked some pot did some acid) since I was in highschool and I maybe have a drink once a month if that. Just want to be prepared and any input would be appreciated. Thanks again

[jmac_52]

Welcome to RP and good luck from Louisiana.

[DetSgt.]

My youngest son just started the academy in N.J, last friday. He will be 30 on April 16th. Yes he is in great shape as he just got back from Iraq as a Marine Squad Sgt. and with 6 year's in the Marine's.

I would suggest that you answer any questions on the application about drug use honestly. Most time's it won't count against you unless you, lie then it will.
Good luck1
Bill

[mcsap]

[QUOTE=Datbadguy;880654Havent done any drugs (smoked some pot did some acid) since I was in highschool and I maybe have a drink once a [/QUOTE]

The acid use , even in high school could be a substantial hurdle.

[Datbadguy]

You really think that doing acid over 13 years ago will influence my job potential? I hope this is not the case. I understand how it could be though. Thanks for the input .

[Datbadguy]

Is there anything that I should do to prep for the written test and the physical agility test? I have no doubts that I will pass these, but I know the evaluations gets a little more intense(form what Ive heard from fellow officers) after these tests. Any tips? Everyone has informed me to tell the truth and be yourself. I guess this is the best advice I could have gotten? Thanks again.

[Datbadguy]

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

[Markbilliards]

I'm not a cop, but I feel like the more times I have taken the written test the better I have done. So don't take it once, do poorly and get discouraged. However there are books out there that can prepare you for the test. Just keep in mind that you can write on your test booklet.

If you get oral interviews, dress with a suit including both coat and tie. Answer clearly, confidently, and make eye contact with the commissioners.

I don't know what state your in, but in Illinois at young man's (age 22) physical requirements are to

run 1.5 miles in roughly 13:00 (I don't remember the exact time, maybe even longer)
Do 37 sit ups in a minute
Bench press 98% of your body weight 1 time
Be able to complete a fairly simple stretch test ( I don't know the exact amounts)

A 30 year old male in Illinois would have easier standards

I don't know what other states are like, but if you are in semi decent shape you should pass, police in IL have easy physical requirements, you don 't need to be a track star or body builder at all.

[AndyG]

Welcome to the site and this post has some interesting tidbits in it. Good to know 30 isn't too old. :D

[patchcop]

Welcome from Germany.

The hiring age in my state is up to 32, and we have a few recruits starting in that age, so you're not too old.

[Datbadguy]

I know all cities are different in there hiring? The requirements they list to apply for the job are all different. The department I am looking at says this about drugs -Conviction of possession, manufacturing, and/or distribution of illegal drugs;

Use of Cocaine, LSD, PCP, or any type of hallucinogenic drug in the last five (5) years or use of Marijuana in the last three (3) years.

I have no issues with these so I applied. My question is if these are there guidelines for applicants will it change once I get further in the hiring process?

Sorry about all the questions. I guess I will just have to wait and see. Only time wil tell.