How to Become a FBI Police Officer

FBI Police Officers must possess the following basic qualifications in order to obtain a position.

  • Be a U.S. citizen
  • Be at least 21 years of age
  • Possess a valid state driver’s license
  • Pass a FBI background investigation and obtain Top Secret clearance

How Academic Degrees and Experience Impact Pay Grade

Entering FBI Police Officers may enter at the GS-5, GS-6, GS-7, or GS-8 pay levels. The GS-5 pay rating is awarded to entry-level officers who only possess a bachelor’s degree in Police Science, Criminology, Criminal Justice, or a related field. Those with a master’s degree or higher are eligible to enter at a higher pay rating.

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A GS-6 pay rating is awarded to officers with at least one year of police experience that entailed the following duties:

  • Maintain public order and protected individuals from danger
  • Protected information or material related to national security
  • Collected evidence and fingerprints for database searches
  • Produced incident and investigative reports
  • Safely used firearms and weapons

A GS-7 pay level is granted to those with at two years of police experience, while the GS-8 pay level is awarded to those with three years of experience in police work.  A GS-8 must demonstrate proficiency in investigating misdemeanors and minor crimes, as well as in the use of specialized weapons.

Application Process for FBI Police Officers

Prospective FBI Police Officers may begin the application process by either submitting a resume to FBI Police Recruiters, or by finding a position at www.FBIJobs.gov. The application package that must be submitted to the FBI Human Resources Office should include a resume, college transcripts and document verifying status as a military veteran, law enforcement veteran or federal employee.

Candidates who are approved will be asked to sit for a written test and panel interview.  These tests will assess various aspects of the candidate’s character, professional experience and technical competencies.  If approved, a Conditional Job Offer will be extended to the candidate.

The candidate must pass a background check, medical exam, fitness test, and drug test.  If the candidate meets all of the requirements, they must complete a six week training program at the FBI Academy in Quantico, VA.

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