FAQ
Please be advised that to pass the written exam you must receive a minimum of 60% correct.
If you pass then you will move to the background investigation process before being offered a position in the academy.
You will be required to meet 60 percent on your final exam in order to graduate the basic academy.
How old do I need to be?
21 years old by academy graduation so the application process can begin when someone is 20.5 years old. There is no upper age limit.
Do I need a college degree?
No, just a high school diploma or GED. Having an education does help for promotions and the continuing education program.
When is the next hiring process?
There are three Police Officer Recruit hiring processes each year. Please keep tabs on our Careers page.
What does the physical test consist of?
The course measures a total of 870 feet (290 yards/ 265.2 meters). The standard for successful completion of the PAT will be for the student, unassisted during the event, to complete the course in two minutes and six seconds (2:06) or less. The course consists of a series of nine interspersed individual tasks, arranged in a continuous format that are viewed as being essential (physical) job-tasks for law enforcement training: Running, jumping (low hurdle), climbing stairs, low crawling, jumping (broad type), climbing a fence (chain-link/four feet), climbing through a window, moving/dragging a weight (150 pounds), changing direction on the run.
Can I study for the written exam?
It is a general knowledge test that consists of grammar, reading comprehension, math, spelling and memorization. TPD will send you a study guide approximately 2 weeks prior to the written exam. Also major bookstores sell public safety/first responder test study books if you want these additional resources.
Please be advised that to pass the written exam you must receive a minimum of 60% correct.
If you pass the written exam then you will move to the background investigation process before being offered a position in the academy.
What are the benefits for veterans/military?
You get 5 preference points so after you are ranked on the list you move up 5 spots automatically. Also, there are GI benefits that can be used during and when you finish the academy. If you get activated you are guaranteed your job when you come back.
How long is the academy?
35 weeks which is typically 4 days/week and 10 hour days. Sometimes that varies during a holiday week or during the weeks of firearms/driving.
Can I live at the academy?
You will travel back and forth to the SALETC academy each day. The academy dorms are reserved for outside agencies since we are a regional academy. We expect that you will move to Tucson or close enough to drive to the academy every day.
Do you accept out of state laterals?
Out of state lateral applicants will have to go through the Lateral Hiring process and a separate academy. But, it is a paid academy and you will have a job upon graduation.
Do you accept in-state laterals?
Yes, all Arizona laterals can apply. You do not have to attend a TPD academy but you do have to go to the POST BASIC academy (8 weeks) when you get hired. These academies are run after the basic academies.
Lateral benefits?
Previous law enforcement time counts towards promotions and special assignments. It is the same retirement system.
Felonies?
We do not hire anyone with felony commissions or convictions.
What can I do on the meantime?
If you are waiting for the application process to begin or if you are in the military waiting to get out or just not old enough, you need to get/stay in shape, keep your background clean, maybe take a college class or two.
How can I find out more about the job?
Visit our Careers page or go on a ride-a-long — you will need to go to a substation and fill out an application or you can email TPDRideAlong@tucsonaz.gov to request more information.
Do you have any other jobs?
Yes, we do recruit for all TPD positions. Visit our Civilian Jobs page or keep an eye on the City of Tucson website for openings.
How much will I get paid?
Police Officer Recruit starting pay is $31.49 or $65,499 annually. All other position pay varies based ont he job.
What happens after the academy?
You will be required to meet 60 percent on your final academy exam in order to graduate the basic academy.
Next you will attend a Post Basic academy for 8 weeks with 4 phases of field training.
Advancement Opportunities?
Police Officers have to be a patrol officer for 3 years before you can put in for special assignments or Detectives test. You have to be on for 5 years before testing for Sergeant. The probation period is 18 months.
All professional staff positions have their own promotional process.