Becoming a Chicago Police Officer

Entry into the Chicago Police Department (CPD) is competitive. The application process includes a qualifying exam, which applicants must pass to be placed on a referral list. It could take up to four years before every candidate on the referral list receives a call for an available position. The CPD offers a starting salary of $43,104. The Department will increase this amount to $59,724 after 12 months and to $63,114 after 18 months. Other benefits include a home-purchase assistance program, a deferred compensation plan, and annual duty availability pay.

• 1

  Ensure that you are eligible to apply for a position in the Chicago Police Department. Applicants must be at least 25 years old and younger than 41. They must have 60 credits from an accredited college or have served three consecutive years in the United States Armed Forces, or have 30 credits and one year of active duty in the United States Armed Forces. At the time of hire, applicants must also be residents of Chicago and possess a State of Illinois Firearm Owner's Identification card.

• 2

  Complete an application. During an open employment session, candidates may pick up application forms from a police station or library or complete an application online. You must register for an account on the Chicago Police website to complete an application online.

• 3

  Take a written exam. Candidates who pass the test will be placed on a referral list. The order of the list will be determined by lottery. CPD will notify the candidates who have been selected to proceed.

• 4

  Expect to take several tests if you are selected for further processing. These include a background check, a health exam, a psychological evaluation, a drug screen, and a physical test.

• 5

  Take the POWER (Police Officer Wellness Evaluation Report). This is a test designed to test the candidate's physical fitness level, since each candidate must be fit enough to respond quickly in life-or- death situations. The test consists of four parts: a 1.5 mile run, sit-ups, sit-and-reach, and a bench press. Candidates will take the POWER test several times during the hiring process and in the training academy. Those who fail the test will be disqualified. You can watch a video of the POWER test on the Chicago Police website.

• 6

  Enter the training academy. Qualified candidates will train in various aspects of police work, including the law, CPD policies and procedures, communication skills, strategies and tactics, professionalism, and the use of required technologies. Candidates will also undergo physical and practical training. Successful applicants will begin a career with CPD at the end of their training as positions become available.