How to Become a Police Officer in New York

New York City is one of the largest cities in the United States and also the busiest of them all. Dubbed as the city that never sleeps, New York City definitely lives up to its name. The New York City Police Department is considered as one of the largest police governing body in North America and also the oldest in the country. First established in 1844,  NYPD is responsible for peace and order in all five regions of New York City.


If you lived in New York City and you are looking for an exciting career then what better way to become a police officer.

How To Become a Police Officer in New York

Before you become a certified police officer, you need to follow some of the basic requirements to participate in the training. Here are the requirements on how to become a police officer in NY.

Step 1: Acquire the basic requirements:

  • You must be between the ages of 20 to 29 before you submit the application deadline and cannot be younger than 21 when appointed.
  • Must be a United States citizen
  • Finished high school and has a diploma or equivalent G.E.D.

Step 2:  Earn units in college

  • Earn at least 60 college units by the time you are appointed. Thirty unites will be waived if you have served two years on active duty in the military and received an honorable discharge or  completed a Police officer Training Course accredited by the NYSP Training Council.

Step 3: Establish a residency in the state of New York.

Step 4: Obtain a valid driver’s license to be used in the New York State.

Step 5: Passed the eye exam.

  • Have an uncorrected vision that is at least 20/100. Your corrected version with the aid of glasses or any other eye equipment must be 20/20. Color blind people are not allowed to join the police force.

Step 6: Demonstrate neat physical appearance.

  • Persons with tattoos or body piercings are advise to remove or must be covered when wearing a police uniform.

Step 7: Pass the New York city police exam.

  •  In order to become a police officer, you need to pass a written exam. You can find the NYSP study guide at the recruitment center’s official website.

Step 8: Pass Physical Ability Test (PAT)

Step 9: Submit to Screen Tests

  • Submit physiological evaluation like police officer in Nevada, polygraph tests and background checks conducted by the police.

Step 10: Undergo medical Examination

Step 11: Complete Police Training at the NYSP Academy


  • Jason

    What is the best police academy in New York?

  • Derek

    Thanks for the info, I tried to browse NYPD website but can’t find the application forms. Can you provide the direct link?