Police Cadets; Cadet- Police Department

Starting Salary for Full Time Cadets

$40,797 annual.

Howard County Police Department is conducting written and physical testing for full‑time Cadets. Cadets support officers and civilians in the Department.

• Assist with clerical and administrative functions and communications
• Transport evidence to state and federal agencies
• Provide traffic direction and assist at special events
• Present programs to the public
• Community outreach

• United States citizen
• 18 years old or older and under 21 years old at employment date
• High school diploma or GED
• Valid driver's license
• No felony or serious misdemeanor convictions
• Completed background investigation (required)

All applications must be submitted at

Prior to and on testing day: Complete an application prior to the testing day. Once approved, you will be invited to complete your Personal History Questionnaire (PHQ). Applications are valid for six months. If you have applied within the last six months, you may re‑apply only after six months from that date. Contact recruitment with questions.

Personal History Questionnaire (PHQ): After application approval, you will receive instructions to complete the PHQ via a unique e‑mail link. You have ten days to submit it electronically. It must be thorough and honest; all information will be verified during the polygraph and background investigation.

Written Exam and Physical Agility Test: Testing is offered at James N. Robey Public Safety Training Center, 2200 Scott Wheeler Dr., Marriottsville, MD 21104. Doors open one hour prior to testing. The written test is two hours long; passing scores are valid for six months or until the next academy is selected. If you fail, re‑testing is restricted for six months.

The physical agility test requires a completed HCPD Physician's Authorization Form and consists of sit‑ups, push‑ups, and a 1.5‑mile run. You may retake the physical test as often as offered within six months after passing the written test.

Oral Interview: Upon successful completion of the physical test, you will have a panel interview with three Howard County Police employees. Questions will address your experience, abilities, and job awareness.

Polygraph Exam: After the oral interview, a polygraph exam will be scheduled. The examiner will explain the procedure and review all questions. The exam typically lasts about three hours.

Background Investigation: Following a polygraph endorsement, a Background Investigator will conduct records checks, verify education and employment, and contact references. This typically takes 4–6 weeks.

Psychological Exam: If endorsed after the background investigation, you will have a psychological exam with a certified psychologist.

Pre‑Employment Medical Evaluation: (Conditional offer of employment)

• Health, dental, and life insurance (full‑time Cadets only)
• Vacation, disability, and personal leave (full‑time Cadets only)
• Uniform and equipment supplied
• Tuition reimbursement (full‑time Cadets only)

For more information, visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). or call the recruiting office at 410‑313‑HCPD.

Hcpd is an accredited and EEO agency.