Kara Sears
There are a variety of law enforcement jobs that 18-year-olds can pursue. While the minimum age to become a police officer is typically 21, some states and departments hire 18-year-olds as police recruits or cadets. These programs often provide training and serve as a pathway to becoming a sworn officer upon reaching the age requirement. Additionally, 18-year-olds can explore other law enforcement roles such as dispatchers, parking enforcement, corrections, animal control, and security officers. Some agencies may also offer positions like liaison with law enforcement, requiring coordination with law enforcement agencies. Military service or a college degree can also be advantageous for a career in law enforcement, providing valuable experience and knowledge.
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Dispatcher
A dispatcher is an essential part of the law enforcement team. They are responsible for responding to radio and telephone inquiries from the public and public safety personnel concerning complaints, emergency situations, and criminal activity. Dispatchers also coordinate the deployment of emergency personnel and equipment during crisis situations.
To become a dispatcher, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma. CPR and basic first aid certifications are required for this position. Candidates must pass a pre-employment test evaluating skills, knowledge, and abilities related to emergency dispatching. After passing the test, candidates will be invited to a hiring interview designed to assess specific competencies necessary to perform the duties of an Emergency Dispatcher.
In addition to handling emergency calls, dispatchers also receive non-emergency calls and provide assistance, information, and referrals as needed. They are responsible for tracking the status of field units and maintaining records of all communications in accordance with departmental policies and procedures.
Being a dispatcher can be a great way to gain experience in law enforcement and develop valuable skills such as crisis management and communication.
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Cadet
A law enforcement apprenticeship programme, the Cadet Corps is designed to give 18- to 21-year-olds insight into police careers. The programme offers training and work assignments to develop leadership skills, participate in physical training, and learn about policing.
Upon completion of a cadet programme, some departments elevate cadets into the role of police officer, while others prepare graduates for testing for the position of police officer.
Examples of Cadet Programs
- The Phoenix Police Department offers a Cadet Honor Guard, Second Language Translator Certification, and CPR certification. Cadets receive law enforcement training in various areas, including summer academy, investigations, physical fitness, and traffic stops.
- The San Diego Police Department's Cadet Program is a voluntary, non-enforcement entry-level position for individuals aged 16 to 21. Cadets may ride along with officers, assist with security and traffic control, work undercover, and more.
- The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) in Washington, DC, offers a High School Cadet Corps program for high school seniors. Participants can work part-time for the MPD while completing their senior year of school. Upon graduation, they are converted into full-time members of the Cadet Corps and enrolled in the University of the District of Columbia to complete their training.
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Correctional officer
In the United States, the minimum age requirement for a correctional officer varies across states. Some states require applicants to be at least 18 years old, while others mandate a minimum age of 21. In North Carolina, for instance, correctional officers must be at least 18 years old, while in New York City, the minimum age is 21.
To become a correctional officer, certain qualifications and requirements must be met. These typically include:
- Education: A high school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate is required. Some positions may require a college degree.
- Citizenship and Residency: Applicants must be citizens of the United States or legal permanent residents. Certain positions may have specific residency requirements, such as being a resident of specific counties or states.
- Experience: Prior law enforcement or military experience is often preferred. Some positions require a minimum number of years of experience as a police officer, peace officer, or in the US Military Reserve with an honorable discharge.
- Training and Exams: Correctional officers typically undergo extensive training, including basic correctional officer training, physical fitness tests, and written exams that evaluate grammar, spelling, punctuation, reading comprehension, and basic mathematics.
- Background Checks and Drug Testing: Candidates undergo rigorous background investigations, drug testing, and criminal background checks to ensure they meet the standards of honesty and integrity required for the position.
- Medical and Psychological Assessments: Correctional officers must undergo medical and psychological evaluations to determine their ability to handle the physical and emotional demands of the job and respond effectively to stressful situations.
- Physical Requirements: Correctional officers need to meet specific physical standards, including strength, endurance, and agility, and may be subject to periodic physical testing throughout their careers.
- Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English, both written and verbal, is typically required for effective communication with inmates and colleagues.
- Identity and Employment Verification: Applicants must provide proof of identity and their legal right to obtain employment in the United States or the specific state/county.
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Parking enforcement
An 18-year-old interested in law enforcement may want to consider a career as a parking enforcement officer. In some places, this job is also known as a traffic warden, parking inspector, or civil enforcement officer.
In the United Kingdom, for example, parking enforcement officers are employed by local authorities or contractors providing services to local authorities. They pursue decriminalized parking enforcement and have replaced traditional "traffic wardens," who were part of the police force.
In Putnam County, New York, parking enforcement officers are required to wear a prescribed uniform and work under the direct supervision of a town or village official. The minimum qualifications for this position include a high school diploma or equivalent, and candidates must be at least 18 years of age.
While an 18-year-old can pursue a career as a parking enforcement officer, it is worth noting that some law enforcement jobs may require individuals to be older. For example, some police trooper positions have a minimum age requirement of 21 years. Therefore, it is essential to research the specific age requirements for different law enforcement roles in your desired location.
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Military police
Becoming a military police officer typically requires basic training, followed by specialized training in military police procedures and protocols. Some branches of the military may have additional requirements, such as a minimum ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) score. It is important to note that military police officers may be deployed to dangerous areas and face risks associated with military operations.
The minimum age requirement for military police officers is typically 18 years old, though specific requirements may vary depending on the branch of the military and the specific role. Some military police positions may require a high school diploma or GED, while others may prefer candidates with a college degree in criminal justice or a related field. It is always advisable to check the specific requirements of the desired branch of the military.
Military experience, including service as a military police officer, can be advantageous when applying for civilian law enforcement positions later on. Many law enforcement agencies value the discipline, training, and experience gained through military service. In some cases, military veterans may be exempt from certain requirements or may have a higher maximum age limit for applying for law enforcement positions.
In addition to the military police, there are other law enforcement-adjacent careers that 18-year-olds can consider. These include corrections, animal control, dispatch, parking enforcement, and cadet programs within police departments. These positions provide valuable experience and can serve as a stepping stone towards a career in law enforcement.
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Frequently asked questions
There are a variety of law enforcement jobs that 18-year-olds can apply for, including:
- Police Cadet
- Dispatcher
- Corrections Officer
- Security Officer
- Parking Enforcement
The qualifications to become a police officer vary depending on the department and state. Some common requirements include:
- A high school diploma or GED
- A degree (in some cases, a 2-year degree in criminal justice is recommended)
- Law enforcement or military experience
- Passing a background check
- Passing a physical assessment
It is recommended to have a fall-back option due to the high wash-out rate in law enforcement academies. Some good alternatives include:
- Going to college or trade school
- Joining the military
- Gaining experience in a related field, such as EMT or security
