To obtain law enforcement certification, one must complete a security training program, gain law enforcement experience, and pass a certification exam. Certification is necessary for many security jobs and is granted by various institutions. Post-secondary training and verifiable experience are required before taking the exam, which can be prepared for through exam prep classes. Certification can lead to job opportunities with large companies.
There are three steps required to obtain law enforcement certification: security training program, law enforcement experience, and successful completion of the certification exam. Law enforcement is a general term used to describe a wide range of security and safety activities. Officers or security guards are usually required to complete police certification programs, while police officers are required to complete post-secondary training programs.
People who want to obtain law enforcement certification often have worked in the security industry for several years or are looking to explore a career in security. Law enforcement certification is granted by various institutions and organizations. Some small towns have developed their own law enforcement certificate program to provide a consistent level of training to everyone working in the law enforcement industry.
The first step to obtaining a police certification is to complete a post-secondary training program. These programs are available at a wide variety of community and career colleges. They are usually 12 to 18 months long and focus on availability for work. Look for programs that prepare you for your local certification exam.
A minimum amount of law enforcement experience is required before you are eligible to take the exam. This experience must be verifiable, completed under the supervision of a certified security guard or other law enforcement professional. Most applicants complete this two-phase experience requirement. The first phase is through an internship, organized by the training school. The second phase is after graduation when they get their first job as a security guard.
The law enforcement certification exam varies in length, but is generally two to three hours long. The questions are a combination of multiple choice and essay style questions. Many companies offer exam preparation classes. Take a look at the material covered on the exam and give yourself an honest assessment of your preparation. Review all programs carefully to ensure they are preparing you for the correct exam.
Upon successful completion of police certification, candidates can apply for positions in large companies such as property management companies, nightclubs and event planners. Many large employers do not hire candidates until they are certified. Certification won’t necessarily result in a higher salary, but it will open the door to working for a great company. Large property management or security companies often promote from within and often offer training programs to help people achieve their goals.
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