Correctional Officer
Applying online for a position as a Correctional Officer with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) is the first step toward a career filled with opportunities in one of the largest law enforcement agencies in the nation. Honesty, punctuality, preparedness and responsibility are expected of all applicants.
Minimum Qualifications
| AGE At least 20 YEARS of age at the time of application and 21 YEARS of age at the time of appointment to the Academy. |
| EDUCATION Graduation from a U.S. high school, G.E.D. or equivalent from a U.S. institution, or a California High School Proficiency Examination (CHSPE) certificate is required, or possession of a college degree (Associate of Arts or higher) from an accredited college or university. |
| CITIZENSHIP Be a citizen of the U.S. or legal permanent resident. |
| BACKGROUND As a minimum requirement, a thorough background investigation must be conducted prior to a candidate’s appointment or training as a Correctional Peace Officer. Additionally, must have no felony convictions and eligible to own/possess a firearm. |
Before You Apply
Please review all of this information before you make a decision to apply. We want to ensure all candidates are well informed of some key factors including how long the process may take and knowing how personal behavior or choices you have made up to this point in your life or in the future may impact whether or not you are eligible to become a peace officer. Please read the minimum qualifications to determine if you qualify for the position(s) you are interested in applying.
Character Counts!
A peace officer career with CDCR can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Before considering a career as a peace officer, potential applicants should examine his or her personal choices and decisions that have impacted their life including driving record, legal issues, recreational choices, and personal relationships. Peace officers must be held to a higher standard.
If you plan to apply for a peace officer position be prepared to follow all instructions and directions given to you throughout the selection process. Arrive to all appointment and interviews on time. If you are late, you will be disqualified. When you are completing required forms and documents, complete them legibly and thoroughly. Specifically, when you turn in your background investigation packet and if you are missing documents you will be given 15 days to provide a complete packet. If you do not meet the 15 day requirement, you will be disqualified. When you are being interviewed by a background investigator or psychological staff be on time and wear business attire.
Follow the instructions and directions for the peace officer selection process to ensure you are well prepared and ready to accept a position and report to the Academy.
As a cadet, you will be required to dress in uniform, be on time to all classes, complete all paperwork thoroughly and respect the instructions and guidelines given to you throughout the selection process. The expectations for following directions, completing documents thoroughly, being on time and dressing professional begins with your application and not once you report to the Academy.