Narcotics Officers: Job Description, Duties and Requirements

Learn about the education and preparation needed to become a narcotics officer. Get a quick view of the requirements as well as details about degree programs, job duties and examinations to find out if this is the right career for you.

A narcotics officer is employed by the police to battle drug crime, which may call for a great deal of undercover work. There are certain skills narcotic officers must have, along with meeting educational requirements that are roughly similar to those of regular police officers, with a few minor additions.

Essential Information

A narcotics officer is a particular type of police officer who specializes in preventing illegal drug use and distribution. Depending on the department or agency for which they want to work, prospective narcotics officers may need a high school diploma or a bachelor's degree. In some cases, military service is accepted in the absence of a degree. As with most police jobs, candidates must successfully complete police academy training and pass written and physical examinations. This job might appeal to an individual with interests in law enforcement, drug control and investigations.

Required Education High school diploma or associate/bachelor's degree (dependent on department)
Military service
Additional Requirements Successful completion of police academy
Passing written and physical exams
Projected Job Growth (2014-2024)* 4% for all police and detectives
Median Wage (2015)* $77,210 annually, $37.12 hourly for all police and detectives

Sources: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Job Description

Narcotics officers work with police agencies or departments to combat illegal drug use and distribution. Some agencies combine narcotics and criminal investigation into one division. Narcotics officers might choose to work in smaller communities, or they might pursue a broader federal job, such as a position with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA).

Narcotics Officer

Narcotics officers investigate drug distribution. They might work with other agents, businesses and concerned organizations to identify drug trafficking routes and dealers and ensure the safety of the community.

Narcotics officers also might write reports and analyze evidence for cases. Additionally, they might disseminate information concerning drug prevention within the community.


Narcotics officers must have physical stamina to conduct investigations. They also must be flexible concerning their work hours, and shift work may be necessary. Additionally, all police officers must demonstrate integrity and determination to complete their work satisfactorily.

Job Requirements


Typically, narcotics officers have the same educational requirements as regular police officers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, some agencies might require a bachelor's degree, while others require only a high school diploma (www.bls.gov). Some agencies accept former work experience or time in the military in lieu of postsecondary education. Aspiring narcotics officers might have the best chances of employment if they have an associate's or bachelor's degree.


Most law enforcement agencies require that prospective narcotics officers complete both physical and written exams. Agencies usually require their candidates to be at least 21 years old.

After being hired, entry-level officers may be required to undergo further training at a police academy. This training is to provide knowledge about laws and procedures for the particular area the agency is responsible for. Additionally, officers must learn basics of emergency management, self-defense and gun control.

Probationary Period

In order to advance within an agency, an officer usually has to stay within the department for several months or even years. After finishing the probationary period, officers may be able to undergo training and take tests for advancement. Police officers can then choose to specialize in narcotics or a similar field.

Career Information

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job openings for police and detectives are expected to increase by 4% from 2014-2024, which is slower than the national average for all occupations. The median salary for detectives and criminal investigators, including narcotics officers, was $77,210 as of 2015.

While narcotics officers only need a high school education, it's preferred that they complete a degree program. After obtaining enough law enforcement experience, police officers must complete specialized training and examination to join the narcotics squad.

Search Degrees, Careers, or Schools