

Chicago Police Officer Training, Prerequisites, and Education Requirements The Chicago PD also maintains units dedicated to preventing and investigating hate crimes and gang-related activity. Specialty units include the detective unit, bomb squad, mounted unit, and marine and helicopter unit. Some specialties require competitive testing, while others are based on seniority. Following graduation from the police academy and a 13-month probationary period, Chicago police officers can apply to work for specialty units. They do this by enforcing laws, including traffic codes, and helping in emergencies. Chicago Police Officer Job DescriptionĬhicago police officers protect people and property in the city of Chicago.

The CPD only accepts applications for the written exam during open application periods, which are posted on the Chicago PD’s website. Once contacted by the department, those selected for the next stages will undergo medical and physical testing, a background investigation, and police academy training to prepare for police work. Applicants can remain on the eligibility list for up to five years. Candidates who are at least 18 years of age may take the exam to qualify for the hiring process and be placed on the CPD eligibility list, but cannot be hired until they reach the age of 21. Next, candidates must take the department’s written exam to be placed on the eligibility list. The first step is to earn at least 60 college credits from an accredited school and meet the hiring requirements outlined below. There are several steps to become a police officer with the Chicago Police Department.
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How to Become a Chicago, Illinois Police Officer
