New Jersey Police Academy Requirements and New Jersey Police Officer Qualifications

Education

An applicant must have (1) a bachelor’s degree, signifying completion of the undergraduate curriculum and graduation from an accredited college or university or, (2) alternatively, an associate’s degree or have completed 60 college credits from an accredited college or university, plus at least two years of satisfactory employment or, (3) alternatively, have completed 30 college credits from an accredited college or university plus at least two years of active duty military service with an honorable discharge.

Age

Applicants must be at least 21 years old on the date that the initial application is submitted and must not reach their 35th birthday prior to the graduation date of their State Police class.

Citizenship

Only citizens of the United States are eligible for appointment to the New Jersey Police Academy.

Driver’s License

Applicants must have obtained a valid automobile driver’s license at the time that background investigations begin.

Background Investigation

Applicants must have a good reputation and be of sound moral character. Factors, which are automatic disqualifications for the position, are listed in the application. An applicant’s background will be carefully investigated and the answers, which are supplied on the application and written examination, are subject to verification. An applicant who has intentionally made a false statement or practiced, or attempted to practice any deception or fraud in this application, in any examination, interview, application, or in securing eligibility for appointment may be rejected from the process. Any intentional misstatement of fact is reason for disqualification from the selection process, and may be punished by law .

Medical/Psychological Examination

If an offer of appointment as a recruit to the NJSP Academy is tendered to an applicant, it will be conditional upon successful completion of a medical examination and a psychological evaluation. A medical examination will be given during which the ability to perform the essential functions of the position will be evaluated by the Division Physician. Visual acuity must be correctable to 20/30 in both eyes, preferably with soft contact lenses. Each potential recruit will be required to authorize access to all health records. The potential recruit will also be required to provide urine samples for drug testing analysis. If the Division Physician should determine that an applicant is unable to perform the essential functions of the position, the conditional offer of appointment will be withdrawn. A psychological evaluation is also conducted. Applicants who successfully complete this phase may be offered an appointment to the New Jersey State Police Academy.