Peace officer training is for anyone interested in becoming a police officer or other type of law enforcement officer. Depending on the jurisdiction, the types of training a person may receive for a career in law enforcement may differ. In most places, however, peace officer training includes both classroom learning and physical fitness training. This type of program usually includes firearms training as well as defensive maneuvers instruction.
For those interested in becoming a peace officer, each jurisdiction may have its own set of requirements. Many jurisdictions impose a minimum age for eligibility, such as 19 or 20, but any requirement can be imposed. Applicants in many jurisdictions must also have a high school diploma or a general educational development (GED) diploma. Some jurisdictions may impose grade point average requirements if an individual has taken college courses. A person interested in becoming a peace officer may also be required to submit to drug tests, criminal background checks, and driving record checks.
A person who goes through peace officer training typically spends some time in the classroom learning about local laws and practices for gathering evidence, searching, and seizing property. In addition, he learns about radar and emergency vehicles. A person in this type of training program will usually learn first aid as well as fingerprinting. This type of training program frequently includes accident investigation as well. Individuals interested in pursuing a career in this field may also be trained in conflict resolution and effective communication methods.
Physical training is frequently an important component of peace officer training. Weight resistance training and self-defense techniques are available to those interested in this field. They may also engage in endurance-building exercises such as long-distance running. Individuals interested in becoming peace officers are frequently required to run or drive through obstacle courses as part of their training. Exercises designed to prepare trainees to rescue people from water may be included in some training programs.
Those undergoing peace officer training are typically instructed and given hands-on experience with firearms and vehicles that are used in the field. A person enrolled in such a program can expect to learn how to fire guns, maintain firearm safety, and deal with situations in which he may need to draw his weapon. He might also get defensive driving lessons and practice dealing with dangerous driving situations.