CAREER FAQs

Sworn Positions

By attending a law enforcement academy on your own. Many schools offer evening academies.

How long does it take to get hired?

Processing for all positions is very thorough and can take 3 – 6 months.

What are the physical requirements?

Law enforcement is a highly demanding job, both physically and mentally. All candidates are required to pass a rigorous medical exam. Academy sponsorship candidates also participate in a Physical Ability Test, which includes a 1.5 mile run, push-ups, and sit-ups. For requirements and methods for preparing, refer to the Law Enforcement page.

Positions in this class typically require: climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motions.

Very heavy work:

Exerting in excess of 100 pounds of force occasionally, and /or in excess of 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or in excess of 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

Incumbents may be subjected to moving mechanical parts, electrical currents, vibrations, fumes, odors, dusts, gases, poor ventilation, chemicals, oils, extreme temperatures, inadequate lighting, work space restrictions, intense noises and travel.

I have prior experience. Do I need to go through the full Field Training?

Yes.

Is there shift work, or can I start on days?

The shifts are fixed and do not rotate; most newly hired deputies will work evenings or nights.

I have a military clearance. Do I need a full background check?

Yes. All of our candidates go through the same background check.

Do you sponsor people to the academy?

Yes, however, sponsorship opportunities are very competitive. Please check our open positions by clicking here.

What are the qualifications for deputy sheriff?

Requirements include:

High school or GED diploma
At least 21 years of age
U.S. Citizen or Registered Alien
Must not have been convicted of a felony.
Must not have been convicted of a misdemeanor involving moral character, false statements, perjury or domestic violence.
Must not have received a dishonorable discharge from the United States Armed Forces
No illegal drug usage over the past year. Other drug usage will be evaluated on a case by case basis.
For positions requiring driving: A valid drivers license for the last year.
Driving History: Applicants applying for a position that includes driving an agency vehicle must possess a current and valid Florida driver’s license. Applicants that reside outside the State of Florida, and will continue to do so, must have a current driver’s license for the state in which they reside (322.031(3), Florida Statute). In addition, no applicant applying for a position that includes driving an agency vehicle during the 60 months before the date of application will have:
Had their driver’s license suspended more than twice for nonpayment of insurance or for nonpayment of traffic fines.
Had their driver’s license suspended or revoked more than once for traffic violations except as stated above.
Been convicted of, or pled guilty or nolo contendere to, Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a police officer, as defined in Chapter 316.1935 Florida Statutes.
Been convicted of, or pled guilty or nolo contendere to, “Driving Under the Influence as defined in Chapter 316.193, Florida Statutes, more than once.
Accumulated more than 12 points on their driver’s license during the 36 months prior to the date of applications or have a driving record that demonstrates repeated offenses and flagrant disregard for traffic laws.

Is there an age limit?

Candidates must be 21 years old to apply for deputy; 18 to apply for civilian positions. There is no upper age limit and we hire people of all ages, based on their qualifications.

Do you have a tattoo policy?

Yes. Offensive tattoos must be covered.

If I’m hired as a deputy, how long before I can go into a specialized unit?

Two years.

I’m certified in another state. Can I be hired?

Yes, however, you must first complete the FDLE/ Federal Exemption From Training course. Law enforcement officers from the military or Puerto Rico may also be eligible. Please click here to review the Equivalency of Training requirements.