FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

I want to connect with a DPD Field Recruiter with no pressure to apply, can this happen?

Yes, you can call, email, or text. You will find the contact information at the bottom of the home page or contact your recruiter directly. Click the button below to get your recruiters contact information.

How long is the Detroit Police Academy?

Approximately 26 weeks (6 months), which is paid. Being in the Detroit Police Academy means you are hired as a City of Detroit employee, starting pay under $21/Hour, 40 hours a week, Monday-Friday, generally 6:45am-3:00pm. You will receive a raise after graduation.

Do I have to live at the Detroit Police Academy during training?

No, we do not offer living quarters at the academy. You will continue to live at your residence or relocate closer to the academy at

your convenience and expense. Remember, you are receiving a bi-weekly paycheck from the Detroit Police Department, currently about $3,200/gross per month.

Does the Detroit Police Department have a residency requirement?

No, we do not have a residency requirement, however, you do have to be a resident of the State of Michigan.

Do I have to have a Driver's License before applying to be a Detroit Police Officer Trainee?

Yes, we do require that you have a valid Driver's License at the time you apply. This means that it cannot be suspended, revoked, or restricted.

I have 60 college credits, do I earn extra money?

Yes, you need a minimum of 60 credits to receive an additional 2% increase on your base pay.

Does the department pay to further education?

Yes, you can receive up to $2k/yr tuition reimbursement.

Can I work investigations immediately after graduating the Police Academy?

The Chief of Police (COP) or his/her designee decides where you will be placed after being sworn in by the COP. It is most common that you will work patrol, but officers have be assigned to specialized units or transferred to different units within months.

How long is the process after I submit my application to begin the Detroit Police Academy?

It could takes on average 35-45 days to be hired (1-2 months). This generally depends on your background investigation and how quickly you return the requested documents. It also depends on when the next academy class is scheduled to begin.

What is the age cut off?

The minimum age to apply is 18 years old with no age restriction.

What is the tattoo policy?

Tattoos are allowed and subject for review. The display of any unprofessional or offensive tattoo or brand, regardless of its location while members are on duty is prohibited. The following list includes, but is not limited to, the types of items prohibited by the Detroit Police Department policy:

a. Depictions of nudity or violence;

b. Sexually explicit or vulgar art, words, phrases, or profane language;

c. Symbols likely to incite a strong negative reaction in any group (i.e. swastikas, pentagrams, etc.) ; or

d. Initials or acronyms that represent criminal or historically oppressive organizations (i.e. KKK, SS, street gang names, numbers, and/ or symbols).

I am still unsure about being a Detroit Police Officer. Can I do a Ride-Along?

We can schedule you to do a four (4) hour Ride-Along (subject to availability). You must sign a waiver, however, it's a great experience riding with the Detroit Police Patrol Officers, during their tour of duty. Please submit your request to https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/aca2938a002e435c978b376493ae23cc

I currently work as a Police Officer for another law enforcement agency in Michigan, do I have to go through the Detroit Police Academy?

No, you will not have to take the written or physical exams, however, you will have to be interviewed, undergo a background investigation, psychological exam, psychological interview, drug screening and an additional requirements. You will have to attend the Training Center for approximately two (2) weeks, learn policies, procedures, ordinances and additional information. You will be required to be in business attire, regularly Police Officer grooming standards (not academy standards). As of right now, you will be hired under the entry level pay scale.

I am currently an active duty member of the United States military and I want to be a Detroit Police Officer, what should I do?

You may apply, however, It is recommended that you apply once you are either in a Retired, Discharged (subject to review), and/or in Military Reserve capacity (not full-time). Additionally, it is best to apply as a resident of Michigan or if you will be moving to Michigan within the next thirty (30) days prior after submitting your application, due to in-person testing. You will have to complete the entire twenty-six (26) week Detroit Police Academy while attending as a Student Police Officer (Police Officer Trainee).

Recreational Marijuana use is legal for anyone twenty-one (21) years of age and older in Michigan. Can I still use Marijuana until the Police Academy starts?

Although Marijuana use is legal in Michigan for individuals 21 years old age and older, MCOLES will disqualify you for a pre-determined amount of time if you fail the drug screening test. It is best that you stop ahead of time, prior to applying, to make sure you can pass the drug screening test. It is against DPD's policy to consume Marijuana.

Is the Covid-19 vaccine required to be a Detroit Police Officer?

As of November 1, 2021, there is no mandated Covid-19 vaccination required. However, the Department does require a Covid-19 test, that is periodically administered by authorized officials through Health Department.

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