Sworn Careers: Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to become a Colorado Springs Police Officer?

CSPD accepts online applications through GovernmentJobs.com.  Applications are now open continuously and all candidates that meet minimum qualifications and do not have any disqualifying behaviors will be scheduled for online testing. You can apply by clicking here. 

When is the next Academy?

Each academy will have an Apply By date.  You MUST apply by that date in order to be considered for the specific academy.  The upcoming Apply By and Academy Dates are:

I live out of state. Can I still apply?
Absolutely! You do not have to be a resident of Colorado Springs to apply. CSPD makes every effort to consolidate the steps for out-of-state applicants in order to allow you to make affordable travel arrangements in as few trips as possible.

Is there a maximum age limit?

No. However, there is a minimum age requirement of 21 years old.

How long are my scores good for?

Scores are good for the length of the posting in which you apply. Candidates can retest each posting.  The latest scores will be the final scores, regardless of if scores go up or down.  Physical Readiness Test (PRT) scores are good for 12 months, if you are unable to start an academy within 12 months, you may be required to retake the PRT.

If I do not score high enough to move forward in the process, when can I reapply?

Candidates can apply and retest for the next available posting. 

If I am not selected after the background investigation, when can I reapply?

Candidates may reapply for the next available posting. 

I have already completed a Police Academy. Will I have to go through your Academy as well, or am I exempt?

If you are selected for a Police Recruit or Lateral position with CSPD, you will still have to attend and pass the CSPD Academy. We do not offer preference points for applicants who have completed an Academy with another agency.

Do I get paid while I am in the Academy?

Yes. Recruits and Laterals are paid their full starting salary throughout their time at the Academy.

How long is your Academy?

Our Academy is 26 - 27 weeks. Lateral Officers must also attend the full academy.

Can I send you unofficial transcripts?

CSPD will only accept official transcripts sent directly from the school. We do not accept unofficial documentation. DO NOT send transcripts until requested to do so.

What if I don't have 60 college semester hours?

Many local colleges and universities will award college credits for military and life experience. Find out more information here. 

Does having military experience supplement your education requirement?

At this time, we do not have a program in place that would accept military time served in lieu of education. We do require a minimum of 30 semester hours by the date of hire and participation in our Alternate Education Program (AEP). Most colleges will take your SMART transcripts and transfer your military training and education into college credits. We cannot accept SMART transcripts directly. If you do decide to obtain the required 30 semester hours by the date of hire, you are eligible to apply now. We would require a letter from your current institution that states that you are enrolled and what date they anticipate you would complete the 30-45 semester hours.

Do lateral officers still have to have 60 college credits or an Associate Degree?

At this time, we do not have a program in place that would accept Police Officer experience in lieu of education. We do require a minimum of 30 semester hours by the date of hire & participation in our Alternate Education Program (AEP). If you do decide to obtain the 30 semester hours by the date of hire, you are eligible to apply now. We would require a letter from your current institution that states that you are enrolled and what date they anticipate you would complete the 30 credit hours.

Does being a Military Police Officer for the Army, or a Security Officer with the Air Force count toward your lateral program?

Our requirements are that you must have at least three years of paid, full-time police officer experience as a patrol officer within the last five years. A Military Police Officer for the Army, or a Security Officer with the Air Force does not apply toward our lateral eligibility requirements.

Does serving as a Corrections Officer count towards your lateral program?

Our requirements are that you must have at least three years of paid, full-time police officer experience as a patrol officer within the last five years. Corrections Officer experience does not apply to our lateral eligibility requirements.

How does someone with educational attainment from another country transfer their college credits so your department will accept them?

In order to verify that you meet our educational requirements of 60 semester hours, you will need to take one of the following steps:

• You may apply, for a fee, to a private educational credential evaluation service for a statement of Associate's degree equivalency. Statements will be accepted from a member of NACES(link is external)
• You may submit your paperwork to any accredited American school or university that offers undergraduate or graduate studies in a field of study relevant to your application as a police officer. You must obtain a written statement from the Office of the Registrar or Admissions from the accredited school, stating that your educational background qualifies you for entrance to a program of undergraduate studies with junior class standing.

Do I have to be a U.S. citizen to work for your agency? Will your department help me apply for a Visa?

Our policy is if hired, you will be required to furnish proof of your eligibility to work in the U.S. All applicants who are offered employment must provide documents to establish their identity and employment eligibility for authorization to work in the U.S.  Your employment status must also allow you to lawfully possess a firearm.  We do not offer sponsorship at this time.

Those hired must be able to be certified by Colorado POST. Information on these requirements for non-citizens can be found here. 

I am currently stationed overseas with the military. Can I still apply?

That depends on your timeframe.  You can apply while on active duty, as well as take all of the online testings, but you must be able to physically attend the appointments necessary for the background process as well as no longer be on active duty by the academy start date.

What benefits does the CSPD offer?

Please check out our City Benefits web page.

How do I complete a Ride-Along with your department?

Please see our Ride-Along Program Page.

What should I expect if I am selected for the Police Training Academy?

Visit our Police Training Academy page for additional information.

What if I need an ADA Test Accommodation?

When advised, reasonable accommodations will be made in order for an “otherwise qualified applicant” with a disability to participate in the testing process (Americans with Disabilities Act of 1991). Applicants who require reasonable accommodations to test should contact our agency by the close of the application process. Accommodations must be requested prior to taking any of the testing components. If you would like to request accommodation, please contact CSPDHiring@coloradosprings.gov. 

How do I learn more about the City of Colorado Springs?

Visit our City of Colorado Springs home page.