Frequently Asked Questions

PHXPD Hiring Process Informational Booklet

This comprehensive booklet is designed to provide you with essential information about becoming a police officer. Inside, you will find explanations of the various duties and responsibilities of a Phoenix police officer.

Additionally, we outline the entire hiring process, from application to the background interview, and give you insights into the minimum qualifications required.

You'll also learn what to expect during your time at the police academy, including the training programs, physical fitness requirements, and the curriculum you can expect as you develop the skills necessary for a successful career in law enforcement. With this information, you will be well-equipped to navigate your journey towards becoming a Phoenix police officer.

The hiring process usually takes 2-3 months from start to finish. The time frame can vary based on several factors, including how quickly applicants gather the necessary documents and submit their eSOPH background questionnaire.

Recruits are typically assigned to a day shift, 4/10 schedule. That means they attend the academy for 10 hours a day for 4 days a week. However, schedule changes may occur. After the academy, a 4/10 schedule is normal for patrol.

Recruits earn $33.72 per hour while attending the academy. After graduation, their pay increases to $35.75 per hour. For the following ten years, officers will receive an annual pay raise, provided they are in good standing, until they reach the final step of the pay scale.  

Recruits will be responsible for purchasing a list of items required to start the academy. They can expect to pay approximately $800 for the necessary gear upfront, but this amount will be reimbursed in their second paycheck.

The Phoenix Police Academy is not a residential academy; recruits return home every day after training.

Officers can test for specialty positions after 3 years of working patrol.

Once probation has been completed as a Phoenix Police Officer, lateral and prior service certified police officers may use 50% of their other police agency time to meet the three-year requirement to transfer into a specialty detail.

Learn more about the 80+ different specialty details within the Phoenix Police Department here.

A college degree is not necessary for promotion to Sergeant.

For promotion to the rank of Lieutenant and higher, a bachelor's degree is mandatory.

Time off is not permitted during the 26 weeks that recruits are in the academy. However, during that time, vacation hours are accrued that can be used at a later time.

Yes, tattoos are permitted.

Phoenix Police Department Tattoo Information:

Inappropriate or excessive tattoos or brands will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

While on duty, employees will follow the below guidelines:

• While in uniform or civilian attire, tattoos or brands may be displayed on the arms or hands.
• While in uniform, tattoos or brands on the legs will not be visible.
• While in civilian attire, visible tattoos or brands on the legs may not extend more than six inches above the center of the anklebone.
• No other visible tattoos or brands are authorized.
• The display of any unprofessional or offensive tattoo or brand, regardless of its location, while employees are on duty or working off-duty, is prohibited.

Tattoos or brands considered inappropriate or excessive, which are visible in uniform
or plain clothes, or not meeting the above guidelines, must be suitably covered while on duty.

• Sweat-resistant bandages, wraps, or makeup will be used to cover unauthorized tattoos or brands and will be the flesh color of the wearer.