Persons convicted of a felony are disqualified from employment. Use of drugs can disqualify an applicant. Officers are expected to be in top physical condition due to the physical demands of the job. They must pass medical exams and physical agility tests. A psychological test also must be passed before appointment.
Many agencies have minimum corrected and non-corrected vision requirements for their officers.
A valid driver's license is required. Federal law enforcement institutions require a four-year degree with an above average grade point. Three years of responsible experience or a combination of education and experience can be substituted. State and local law enforcement agencies require a high school diploma or its equivalent. However, some college classes are desirable.