Many police jobs require a high school diploma and possibly some college study of criminal justice. Applicants will likely be rejected for multiple traffic violations, drug offenses or other issues uncovered by a background check. Then come tests - physical, medical, intellectual and psychological. In many jurisdictions, a civil-service ranking determines who's likely to be admitted to the academy training program for city or state police.
You should maintain physical fitness. Playing organized sports can help you keep in shape, as well as look good in your application to a police academy. Physical fitness is a key for anyone interested in becoming a police officer, as you will have to pass a series of physical tests.
If your application to become a police officer is successful, you will attend a police academy, usually for about 3-4 months. The training at a police academy includes classroom instruction, physical training, on the job situational training, safe use of firearms, self-defense, and first aid.
Pursue continuing education. Police officers often attend workshops and seminars throughout their careers in order to deal with changing needs and cultures in a society. If you wish to become a police officer, you should be aware of the need for continuing education.
While the requirements for becoming a police officer are certainly quite strict, bear in mind that these are the people we trust with our very lives at times. There is a need for a high level of trust between the police and members of the public, and officers must be fit for their duties, both mentally and physically. Police officers are tasked with protecting and serving the public and this can be a very high stress career.