Department of Public Safety

Police Recruitment Process

Join the Cleveland Division of Police

The Department of Public Safety is looking for individuals with compassion, strength, and dedication, to join the Cleveland Division of Police. Every day, Cleveland officers have the power of making a positive impact in our communities by using their decision-making skills while helping someone in need. We invite you to take pride in the city we live, work, and play. Apply to join the Cleveland Division of Police today.

Apply Today

Eligibility Requirements

Qualifications

  • Must be 21 years of age and under the age of 55 at the time of appointment to the City of Cleveland Police Training Academy. 
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Must be a U.S. citizen
  • Valid Ohio driver’s license (less than 6 points)

Step by Step Recruitment Process

  • Complete the City of Cleveland online application
  • Complete a City of Cleveland Civil Service Written examination
  • Take a Physical Agility Test (Test is taken twice, beginning and end of process)
  • Complete Personal History questionnaires
  • PHS Review & interview, photographed and fingerprinted
  • Complete waivers authorizing extensive background investigations
  • Comprehensive Background Check (resident, employment, social media, traffic, etc.)
  • Behavioral Based Interview (BBI)
  • Selection Process conducted by The Director of Public Safety & Chief of Police
  • Pass a medical examination
  • Undergo a psychological/psychiatric evaluation, including taking the Psychological Dimensions assessment.
  • Police Academy training.

Apply Today

Contact Information

NamePhoneEmail
Detective Felton Collier216-857-7049FCollier2@clevelandohio.gov
Sergeant Crystal Lewis216-623-3364CLewis3@clevelandohio.gov

FAQs

The police academy is 7 ½ months long and recruits train Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM.

The only automatic disqualifiers we have are felonies.  All other offenses will be investigated and handled on a case-by-case base.

Yes, applicants must be at least 21 years of age on the first day of the academy and no older than 54 years of age on the first day.

The hiring process can take between 4 – 6 months.

Yes, even though you have completed an academy we require you to complete our academy in order to be hired.  In the event we do lateral hiring you would only need to complete our abbreviated academy instead.