Law Enforcement Officer

About the Arlington County Police Department

The Arlington County Police Department (ACPD) is a professional and community-focused law enforcement agency dedicated to ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of our residents and visitors. Located just five miles from the heart of the nation’s capital, Arlington County is one of the most densely populated and vibrant communities in Virginia.

ACPD operates with a commitment to integrity, accountability, and service excellence, utilizing modern policing strategies, advanced technology, and strong community partnerships. Our department offers progressive career opportunities, specialized units, and leadership development programs to help officers succeed in their law enforcement careers.

As an ACPD officer, you will be part of a highly trained and professional team that values community engagement, proactive policing, and continuous professional growth.

The Arlington County Police Department is offering a fully sponsored training opportunity for individuals seeking a career in law enforcement. Selected candidates will be employed as Police Recruits, receiving full tuition, books, and fees for the Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Training Academy (NVCJA), along with a paid training stipend.

Upon successful completion of the academy and passing the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) Law Enforcement Certification Examination, recruits will be promoted to Police Officer with full salary and benefits.

This is a paid, full-time position, and overtime provisions under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) apply.

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Note: Applicants must complete all required documentation, including prior job responsibilities and supplemental questions, before submitting their application.

• Attend and complete all required coursework, physical training, and exams at the Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Training Academy (NVCJA).
• Participate in department‑assigned tasks during academy recess periods, as directed by the ACPD Personnel and Recruitment Unit.
• Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and a strong commitment to community service throughout training.
• Successfully pass the Virginia DCJS Law Enforcement Certification Examination to become a Certified Police Officer.

In accordance with Virginia state requirements, candidates accepted into the Sponsored Recruit Program must agree to the following conditions:

• ACPD will cover one (1) attempt at the Virginia DCJS Law Enforcement Certification Examination.
• Recruits must complete academy training within the designated timeframe.
• Upon obtaining certification, recruits will be appointed as full‑time Police Officers with ACPD.
• Recruits must remain employed with ACPD for a minimum of two (2) years after certification.

To participate in the Police Officer recruitment process, all candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Education: 60 semester hours or 90 quarter hours of college coursework from an accredited institution, with exceptions for law enforcement or military experience.
• Age: At least 20 years and 6 months of age at the time of application.
• Citizenship: U.S. citizenship or valid permanent resident status with intent to become a U.S. citizen.

Education Requirement Substitutions:

• Law Enforcement
  
  Experience:
  
  One year of full-time sworn law enforcement experience after graduating from an accredited law enforcement academy.
• Military
  
  Experience:
  
  Two years of continuous, full‑time active‑duty military service with an honorable discharge.

The ACPD hiring process is multi-phased, requiring candidates to pass each stage to be considered eligible for hire. These stages include: