West Sacramento Police Departmentbackground

Requirements

Basic Requirements to Become a Police Officer in California

🔹 Age Requirement

  • Must be at least  21+ at the time of appointment

🔹 U.S. Citizenship

  • Must be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident alien who has applied for citizenship

🔹 Education

  • High school diploma or equivalent (GED)

🔹 Background Check

  • Must pass a comprehensive background investigation

  • Includes review of criminal history, employment, finances, driving record, and personal references

🔹 No Felony Convictions

  • Must not have any felony convictions

  • Certain misdemeanors (especially related to domestic violence) may also disqualify applicants

🔹 Moral Character

  • Demonstrated through the background investigation and polygraph examination

🔹 Physical Fitness

  • Must meet physical and medical standards

  • Includes vision, hearing, strength, and agility

🔹 Psychological Evaluation

  • Must be evaluated by a licensed psychologist for emotional and mental fitness

🔹 Medical Examination

  • Must pass a medical exam conducted by a licensed physician

🔹 Fingerprinting & DOJ Clearance

  • Required for all candidates prior to appointment

🔹 POST-Certified Training

  • Must successfully complete a POST-approved Basic Police Academy

  • Academy training typically lasts 5–6 months, covering laws, tactics, firearms, community policing, and physical conditioning