Expert: Loren Stevens - 10/19/2009

Question
hey Loren i read the question from Michael and your answer i was wondering what are the requirements to become a police officer so later i can join SWAT ?

Answer
Hello Russell,
Typically, to be considered for a local or state law enforcement agency, requires a HS diploma, or GED, clean criminal history, decent driving record, no debt problems, no domestic-violence history, and able to qualify the physical fitness test.
There may be some variations, but basically, this is pretty standard. Some agencies accept some minor criminal history, but frown on issues of honesty, and character. Naturally a drug test is required, and many departments also do polygraph examinations.
About 10% of applicants get hired. After that, each agency has different requirements before they will consider you for a special assignment beyond the entry level positions.
Hope this is helpful.
You may want to contact the agency personnel or human resources you are interested in, and obtain specific information from them.
Good Luck,
loren