State agencies have different requirements. The following is the basic information, you may need more training than listed below depending on where you want to work. If you know where you want to work check with them first. You must be 21 years old to become certified as a peace officer in Missouri. You must have a high school diploma or its equivalent.
College is helpful and needed for the higher paying departments.
You must be a United States citizen. You must be a resident of Missouri. Certified peace officers or reserve officers must have a minimum of 470 hours of approved basic training, unless exempted under state statute. Applicants applying for certification in a first class county with a charter form of government, must have a minimum of 600 or more hours of approved basic training. Training centers are located throughout the state.