How to Become a Cop in Illinois

If you are interested in becoming a police officer in the state of Illinois, there are some requirements that you’ll have to meet before you can apply.  Law enforcement agencies in Illinois generally have a great pay structure with good health insurance.  The selection process usually takes about 4-6 months to complete. Some of the steps taking place during this time include a polygraph test, written exam, oral board interview, fitness test, psychological evaluation test, and a drug screening test.

IMPORTANT NOTE: If you are truly serious about getting a satisfactory score on your entrance exam, I’d suggest investing in a law enforcement prep guide. You can usually get one online.

Here’s just some of the requirements needed to be a police officer in Illinois:

• Age – To be considered for a position as an Illinois police officer you must be at least 21 years old.

• Written exam – You must pass the civil service entrance exam. (I’d recommend looking over a police exam study guide before you take the test)

• Oral Board Interview – You must do well on the police oral board interview. If you study up on the interview, you should do fine.

• Education -An applicant is required to have a high school diploma or GED.  Some agencies require some college credits.

• License – A valid Illinois driver’s license is necessary for employment.

• Physical Condition – Applicants must be able to pass the physical fitness tests such as running 1.5 miles, sit-ups, and bench pressing weights (I’d recommend that you follow a police specific workout guide).

• Background Record – You must not have any felony convictions or any pending cases.

• Police Academy – You must successfully pass the police training academy.

Here are just some of the toughest counties/cities in Illinois to be a police officer:

Officer Forestal has a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, 8 years law enforcement experience and is a graduate of the 2002 Police Corps, where he was recognized as an expert shooter. Former Collegiate all-American, certifield personal trainer and author of several fitness and police related books such as the Police Oral Interview Secrets, and Police Exam For Dummies. As a Law Enforcement enthusiast, E.L. has helped hundreds of candidates "ACE" their respective entrance exam and the oral board interview. Learn More...

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