What Will Disqualify You From Becoming a Corrections Officer?

by Tina Amo

Corrections officers oversee incarcerated individuals awaiting a trial, awaiting being sent to prison or serving a jail or prison sentence. They ensure rules and regulations are being kept, check prisoners and facilities for contraband, search for missing inmates and maintain security of prison facilities. Each state and facility maintains varying requirements for this position. In all states, however, applicants convicted of a felony cannot apply. Applicants must also satisfy other qualifications to be considered.

Criminal History

A felony conviction disqualifies you from becoming a corrections officer. Failure to disclose a criminal background of any kind will also automatically disqualify you. List any misdemeanor crimes in your application, regardless of the amount of time that has elapsed since they occurred. Each agency evaluates cases individually before making a decision to approve or deny the application.

Other Possible Disqualifications

Several other factors can disqualify you from becoming a corrections officer, but these vary by state. Depending on your state, you could be disqualified if you are not a U.S. citizen, don't have a high school diploma or GED, can't legally carry firearms or cannot perform the job due to a poor physical condition. You might also be disqualified if you are under the age required to apply. This also varies nationwide but is usually from 19 to 21 years.

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