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Police Officer FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Curious about what it takes to become a Fort Worth Police Officer? Whether you’re just starting your career, making a lateral move, or exploring a new path in law enforcement, we’ve answered the most common questions we hear from applicants. Browse below to learn more about hiring, training, benefits, and what makes Fort Worth one of the most supportive places to wear the badge.

Hiring and Eligibility

Learn what it takes to qualify, how long the process takes, and what to expect before and after applying.

Academy and Training

Learn what it takes to qualify, how long the process takes, and what to expect before and after applying.
How Long Is the Police Academy?

The academy lasts 34 weeks, including classroom learning, physical training, and scenario-based exercises.

Yes. Police Trainees earn $65,520 annually with full benefits while in the academy.

The hiring process can take two to six months, depending on your unique situation. However, the steps include:
  • Complete Application on City Website
  • Take the Civil Service Test
  • Complete Personal History Book
  • Physical Resiliency Assessment
  • Polygraph Examination
  • Oral Board Interview
  • Medical Exam
  • Psychological Exam
All applicants must meet the following minimum standards before applying:
  • Be at least 21 years old by the date of academy entrance
  • Hold a high school diploma or GED (college credit preferred)
  • Be a U.S. citizen
  • Possess a valid driver’s license
  • Have no felony or disqualifying misdemeanor convictions
  • Meet the physical and psychological standards of the department
Some of the most common reasons applicants are disqualified from joining the academy include:
  • Felony convictions or certain Class A or B misdemeanors
  • History of drug use or substance abuse
  • Domestic violence convictions
  • Dishonorable discharge from military service
  • Falsifying information during the hiring process
  • Poor employment history or references
  • Active probation or unresolved legal issues
If you’re waiting to take the civil service exam or are in the background phase, we recommend preparing for the physical fitness assessment and reviewing study materials.

Lateral Entry and Certification

Get clarity on what to expect at the FWPD Police Academy, including hours, pay, and length of training.

How Long Is the Lateral Academy?

Out-of-state lateral officers will receive all eight of the classes that the State of Texas requires in order to lateral from out-of-state over the course of 8 weeks.

In-state officers will then join those out-of-state officers for an 8 week lateral academy.

Lateral officers with 2-5 years of experience will be paid at Step 3 on the pay table, and lateral officers with 6 years of experience will be paid at Step 4.

Generally, 6:30 AM to 3:30 PM, though times may vary depending on the training schedule.

No. The Fort Worth Police Academy is not residential. Trainees commute daily and are free to leave once training concludes each day.
Trainees begin accruing leave on day one but cannot use it in the academy. Vacation accrues at 4.5 hours per pay period, and sick leave accrues at 4.62 hours per pay period.

Pay, Retirement, and Benefits

Learn more about compensation, retirement, healthcare, and what makes FWPD a competitive place to serve.
Does the City of Fort Worth Offer benefits?
Yes. Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO provides medical, MetLife provides dental, and TIAA-CREF is the retirement plan provider. Learn more about the benefits of working with the Fort Worth PD.
Yes. Retirees may purchase health, dental, and vision coverage through the City at their own cost.

Officers earn 2.5% of their salary per year of service. After 25 years, they are eligible to retire with full benefits

Day-to-Day Operations

Understand more about how the department operates on patrol and in specialized roles.
Does the Department Offer Take-Home Vehicles?
Only officers assigned to specialized units with after-hours responsibilities typically receive take-home vehicles.
Beat officers drive vehicles assigned to their area. Relief officers use available cars on a first-come, first-served basis.

No. FWPD uses one-officer patrols by default, but two-person units can be authorized with supervisor approval.

You’re eligible to take the promotional exam after two years. Requirements for specialized units vary and are posted with each vacancy.

Uniform, Grooming, and Appearance

Learn about the department’s policy on appearance and personal expression.
Are Officers Allowed to Have Facial Hair?

Yes. Mustaches and beards are permitted if they are neatly groomed.

Visible facial, head, neck, hands, or fingers tattoos are prohibited. All tattoos must be professional and not offensive, biased, or disruptive.
Yes. FWPD permits specific models of outer carriers for uniform wear.

Questions? Contact a Recruiter

Still have questions or need help navigating the process? Our recruiters are here to guide you.
CONTACT A RECRUITER