Frequently asked questions for Law Enforcement:
I am not a United States citizen, can I still become a police officer?
Laws and hiring policies differ from state to state and agency to agency regarding citizenship requirements. Generally, most agencies require you to be either a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident alien. If you have more specific questions regarding citizenship requirements, speak with one of Criminal Justice Institute of Southern California(CJISC)’s representatives.
I have a felony conviction, can I still become a police officer?
No. Felonies, whether committed as a juvenile or adult, and whether sealed or not, are automatic disqualifiers for a position as a police officer.
I have past misdemeanor conviction or drug use, can I still become a police officer?
Every agency has different hiring policies regarding prior misdemeanor convictions and/or past drug use. Some agencies will overlook certain misdemeanors and/or drug use after a certain amount of time and some will overlook the past use of certain drugs. Certain past drug use will always be a disqualifier. Your best course of action would be to speak to one of CJISC’s represenatives. CJISC’s veteran Law Enforcement instructors cover the details and intracacies of the Law Enforcement Background Investigation process at the offered seminar date(s) and through the offered 8 week program.
Am I too old for a job as a police officer?
Other than federal law enforcement agencies, which have a maximum hiring age of 37, most police departments do not have a maximum hiring age. However, it is recommended that you contact a recruiter for any specific agencies you want to apply to, just to make sure.
Are there any scholarships available for putting me through a police academy?
If you are attending a police academy that is affiliated with a college or university, and are receiving college credits for your time at the academy, then you may be eligible to receive traditional scholarships, grants, and/or financial aid. Criminal Justice Institute of Southern California(CJISC) also offers tuition reimbursement for qualified graduates.*(link for details)
I’m in high school. What can I do to prepare for a police career?
One of the best programs you can participate is Criminal Justice Institute of Southern California(CJISC)’s Law Enforcement Preporatory Program. Speak with one of your CJISC representatives for more details. CJISC is also committed to provided in-depth career counseling designed to accelerate your Law Enforcement career process.
