FAQ

Are there any age or physical limitations on who can apply for the job?

You must be at least 20.5 years of age to be hired; there is no maximum age limit. Candidates often worry about their height, weight, vision, hearing or health history. As long as you are fit enough to take and pass the physical ability test and pre-employment medical exam, get through the Academy and are able to perform all the functions of day-to-day police work – there are no physical limitations on who can apply.

What is one of the best ways to prep for testing?

If you live in the area, we strongly recommend that you attend.

If you are out of state, or unable to attend a workshop, make sure you read through the ‘test prep’ packet, and watch the video and prep for the physical ability exam both available on the test-prep page

How long is the training process before I’m on patrol?

The Basic Law Enforcement Academy (BLEA) is approximately 4.5-months (720 hours). Recruits are NOT housed at the academy and will be responsible for their own housing.

Upon graduation from the Basic Law Enforcement Academy (BLEA) you will become a Student Officer. You will spend approximately 4 weeks at the Seattle Police Department Advanced Training Unit in Post-BLEA. You will learn the laws specific to the City of Seattle, department policy and procedures and services specific to Seattle.

After completing advanced training, you will enter the Field Training Program, with an experienced officer who will evaluate your performance in the patrol division.