We are excited that you are interested in a career with CPD! To make the process as efficient as possible, we’ve compiled answers to some frequently asked questions below. If you still have questions or would like a recruiter to reach out to you, please complete the form at the bottom of this page.

We will also be holding a hiring process information at CPD on February 19th at 6 pm. You can get all your questions answered and meet one-on-one with officers afterward.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are interested in becoming a police officer, you must first meet the basic requirements. If you do meet the basic requirements, please complete our online application form during a hiring process. We generally hold two hiring processes each year. If we don’t have an open application, you can complete the form to get notified when we are accepting application.

To become a police officer with CPD, you must meet the following requirements:

  • 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

There are many steps to the process, starting with a written test and interview in the same day. The hiring process can take as little as a few months or as long as a year and a half. Timing can sometimes depend on when we have an opening for a new police officer. Because of the lengthy steps, a hiring process is often started before an opening is available so that it can be filled as soon as possible. To learn more about each step of the process and what to expect, visit our hiring process page.

If you are looking to become a police officer, first we recommend learning more about the career. You can do this a variety of ways- formal criminal justice education, books, podcasts, documentaries, speaking to current or retired police, attending our hiring process information sessions, etc. You can help prepare yourself for a career in law enforcement by ensuring you meet the basic requirements and can pass all phases of the hiring process. You may also get experience in a related field, such as corrections or dispatching.

While not required, a college education, law enforcement experience, and/or military service will improve an applicant’s standing. Although applicants with prior experience in law enforcement or a related field may be preferred, don’t let that discourage you. Many of our officers had no experience in law enforcement before joining CPD.

CPD prides itself on having high quality, well-trained officers. To ensure we keep our standards high, we are looking for applicants that demonstrate our values:

  • We have:
    • Integrity – We are honest and have strong moral principles
    • Duty – We have obligations beyond our moral and legal responsibilities
    • Honor – We are fair and uphold the responsibilities of the position in which we are entrusted
  • We are:
    • Loyal – We are faithful to and fulfill our commitments, obligations and duties
    • Responsible – We are accountable for that which is in our power, control, and management
    • Service Oriented – We are helpful
  • We do all this with:
    • Excellence – We surpass ordinary standards
    • Respect – We treat all people with high regard
    • Equality – We treat all people the same

Yes, we started our lateral officer hiring program in 2026. Lateral officers who qualify can receive up to 8 years of longevity pay and time off if hired by CPD. Learn more on our lateral officer page.

 

Other Questions? Talk to a Recruiter

Police

Dispatch
(812) 379-1689

Front Desk
(812) 376-2600

Records Division
123 Washington Street
Columbus, IN 47201
(812) 376-2653
Monday – Friday
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

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