California peace officers undergo an extensive selection process before they are hired by law enforcement agencies. Our agency follows the Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission guidelines for selection standards. The role of the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training includes establishing minimum selection standards for peace officers in California and conducting research that results in the development of the tests and procedures used by local law enforcement agencies to adhere to these minimum selection standards.
The minimum peace officer selection standards are set forth in Government Code Sections 1029 and 1031. Every California peace officer must be:
- Free of any felony convictions
- A citizen of the United States or a permanent resident alien who is eligible for and has applied for citizenship (CHP officers must be U.S. citizens at time of appointment)
- At least 18 years of age
- Fingerprinted for purposes of search of local, state, and national fingerprint files to disclose any criminal record
- Of good moral character, as determined by a thorough background investigation
- A high school graduate, pass the General Education Development test or have attained a two-year, four-year, or advanced degree from an accredited or approved institution
- Found to be free from any physical, emotional, or mental condition which might adversely affect the exercise of the powers of a peace officer.
Contact the Sheriff's Office for more information.