Law Enforcement

Law Enforcement Officer

Being a law enforcement officer or police officer can really affect your personal life. This field of work is rated very high in suicide rates, anger management problems, and physical domestic violence. It is a very stressful job, but very rewarding for those who can maintain stress relieving activities, and who are not afraid of going to a counselor once in a while.

Don't use drugs. If you do, it will ruin your chances of becoming an officer. You will be asked about your past drug usage and given a lie detector test. If you lie, then what good are you as a police officer? Honesty is the first and only option a dedicated, strong, and honorable officer has.

Bottom line.  Keep your act straight. A potential career in law enforcement can quickly go down the drain by "youthful indiscretions".

Before you give any more consideration to going into law enforcement, take the FREE career test at LiveCareer, and if that test points you into the direction of law enforcement then take the FREE Police Officer's Test. If you pass that test you should be able to pursue a successful career in law enforcement.

How to Become a Police Officer

Law enforcement offers a variety of career opportunities, many of which are available to candidates without degrees. The things you need to do to become a Police Officer vary depending on where you are trying to get a job. Here are some suggestions to consider:

• Take high school and/or continuing education courses in business math/accounting, computer applications and behavioral sciences. These courses will help give you some information to pass a written examine and some of the skills you'll need as an officer.

• Maintain a physically fit body. In addition to a written exam, you will be required to pass a physical agility test. This test usually involves running, sit-ups, pull-ups and other activities that simulate situations you might encounter on the job.

• Find something that works your mind and builds your mental fitness. Part of the written test is focused on how well you can remember details (as well as how good your written English skills are). They want to know that when you give a description of a person (suspect, victim, etc.) that it is as accurate as possible. This is very important to your job. Pay attention to the small details that most people usually forget or never even notice. A productive and fun way to exercise your mind is to play some of the challenging video games available today.  For more information go to Mystery Crime Games.

• If you are between the ages of 14 and 21, consider joining a Police Explorer POST (Police Officer Standards & Training) in your area. Check with local community colleges or state universities to see if they offer POST related classes.

• Consider a period of military service. Two years in the armed forces is excellent mental and physical conditioning for police work.

• Police Academies exist in every state. Each state has specific physical and academic requirements for cadets. Some states allow open enrollment in police academies. Many require cadets to be hired by a police department in order to attend. Click on Frequently Asked Questions for answers to many questions regarding law enforcement training.

• Go to Law Enforcement Jobs  then "Find a Job" for sample job requirements and wages.

Need More Information on
Law Enforcement Background?

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