How to Become a Police Officer in Missouri?

According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the state of Missouri experienced 137,419 cases of property crime and 22,739 cases of burglary in 2016. With a population of nearly 4 million, this crime rate is really high. Even though the police force in the state is working harder than ever, it can always use some fresh energy in the form of new recruits. If you wish to become a part of the law enforcement agency in Missouri, you should continue reading. The following guide contains information regarding the requirements, steps and salaries for this occupation in Missouri.

Featured Programs and Schools

Requirements to Become a Police Officer in Missouri
How to Become a Police Officer in Missouri

Steps for Becoming a Police Officer in Missouri

To become a police officer in Missouri, you need to follow a defined process. The exact details of this process will be provided by your local Police Department where you intend to apply. The following steps are meant to serve as a generic guideline.

  1. Ensure that you meet the minimum eligibility criteria
  1. Fill out the application and submit it with the relevant department
  1. Pass a written exam
  1. Pass the Physical Agility Test
  1. Clear a Polygraph Test and a Drug Screening
  1. Pass the medical and psychological exams
  1. Clear the interviews phase with the department’s police officers
  1. Clear the interview with higher management in the department
  1. Begin your police academy training

Requirements to Become a Police Officer in Missouri

Now that you are aware of the process, you can begin to check whether you meet the basic requirements to apply as a police officer in the state of Missouri. The exact version of these requirements would be available with the individual department’s information center. The following list should give you a basic idea of what kind of requirements you might have to meet:

  • Candidates must be citizens of the US
  • Candidates should have at least a high school diploma or a GED
  • Candidates should be at least 21 years of age
  • Candidates should not have any felony convictions or serious criminal record
  • Candidates should reside in the state of Missouri
  • Candidates should have a valid drivers’ license for the state of Missouri

How long does it take to become a police officer in Missouri?

To become a police officer in Missouri, you are looking at a time investment of approximately 1.5 to2 years. This time frame would vary as per individual department’s policies. For instance, some police departments might require 22 weeks of training, while others would need at least 28 weeks.

How much does a police officer make in Missouri?

As per data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean wage of Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers in Missouri was $48,920. The state currently has 13,510 people working in this category, with an employment rate of 4.82 per 1000.

You May Like

How to Become a Police Officer in Vermont – VT
How to Become a Police Officer in Houston
How to Become a Police Officer in New Hampshire?