Find Your Next Career at the
Columbus Police Department

Now hiring for Sworn Police Officers.

Find Your Next Career at the
Columbus Police Department

Sworn Officer Requirements

The following are the requirements to become a sworn police officer with the Columbus Police Department:

  • Must be a United States Citizen
  • Must have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Must have a valid Driver’s License
  • Must be at least 21 years old and not older than 39 years old when sworn-in
  • Must not have a conviction in the past five years that has not been expunged for:
    • Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs
    • Operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated or with a blood alcohol content of .08 of higher
    • Domestic battery
  • Must not have a felony conviction that has not been expunged
  • Must successfully complete all phases of the hiring process

Pay & Benefits

Learn more about Patrol Officer pay and benefits offered by the city of Columbus.

Hiring Process

Learn more about our hiring process, and how you can prepare.

New Officer Training

Learn more about our thorough and extensive training program for probationary officers

Lateral Hiring

CPD offers lateral hiring for current law enforcement officers from other departments.

Columbus Police Department
Specialty Units

  • K-9 Officers
  • Bike Patrol
  • Drone Team
  • S.W.A.T. Team
  • Bomb Squad
  • D.A.R.E. Officer
  • Honor Guard
  • Field Training Officer
  • Accident Reconstructionist
  • Crime Scene Investigator
  • Emergency Driving Instructor
  • Defensive Tactics Instructor
  • Firearms Instructor
  • Polygraph Operator
  • Crisis Negotiator

Talk to a Recruiter

Thinking about pursuing a career with the Columbus Police Department, but have questions? We’re here to help!

Whether you’re curious about the application process, the requirements for applying, or what it’s like to work in law enforcement, a recruiter can provide valuable insights and guide you through each step.

It’s an opportunity to learn about the department’s values, training programs, benefits, and career advancement opportunities—helping you make an informed decision about your future at the Columbus Police Department.

Welcome to Columbus, Indiana.
We think you’ll like it here.

Learn more about living in our unexpected, unforgettable community.