Apply to the Law Enforcement Academy

Independent Applicants

We are not currently accepting applications for independent applicants.

See on this page:

• How to Apply
• Admission Requirements
• Interviews

How to Apply

To apply as an independent candidate, you must:

1. Complete the Academy Interest & Initial Screening Form
   • We use the interest form/questionnaire to determine if you meet minimum requirements for enrollment, including requisites mandated by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE).
     
     If you meet minimal entry requirements:
2. Complete a personal history statement and Law Enforcement Academy application.
   • We will email the statement form and the application to you.
   • You will have 14 days to submit these forms.
3. Complete a physical fitness test.
   • Once we review your application and personal history statement, we will schedule you for a physical fitness test.
   • The test consists of a 2000-meter row for time on a Concept 2 rowing machine. You must score in the 30th percentile or higher to continue in the application process.
   • For instructions on proper form and technique, watch this video from Concept 2: Proper Rowing Machine Technique, Improve Your Rowing
   • To calculate the time necessary to reach the 30th percentile based on your gender, age, and weight, see the Texas Department of Public Safety Concept 2 Rower Calculator. Under Desired Results, enter 30.
4. Complete and pass the Law Enforcement Academy entrance exam.
   • If you pass the physical fitness test, we will schedule you for the Academy entrance exam.

Admission Requirements

You must:

• Be 21 years of age. See TCOLE Statutes and Rules Handbook (PDF) on the TCOLE websiteListen for more information.
• Meet TCOLE minimum requirements for licensing.
• Complete the application packet from the TCC Public Safety Training Center. (Packets for employed students are sent to agencies only.)
• Pass a complete medical and psychological exam.
• Be able to perform strenuous physical activities.
• Show proof of Bacterial Meningitis vaccination if under the age of 22.

Items that are needed with your application:

• Texas Driver's License
• Birth Certificate or Proof of U.S. Citizenship
• High School Diploma or HSE
• College Transcript(s) (if any)—including TSI Assessment scores
• DD Form 214 or military discharge papers (applies to those that have served in the military)

Interviews

Your application must be completed and reviewed.

After all applications have been reviewed, a Basic Police Officer Academy (BPOA) Coordinator will contact the selected individuals.

Please wait for them to review your application before you contact them.

Contact

Updated July 30, 2024