About the Arlington County Police Department

The Arlington County Police Department (ACPD) is a professional and community-focused law enforcement agency dedicated to ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of our residents and visitors. Located just five miles from the heart of the nation’s capital, Arlington County is one of the most densely populated and vibrant communities in Virginia.

ACPD operates with a commitment to integrity, accountability, and service excellence, utilizing modern policing strategies, advanced technology, and strong community partnerships. Our department offers progressive career opportunities, specialized units, and leadership development programs to help officers succeed in their law enforcement careers.

As an ACPD officer, you will be part of a highly trained and professional team that values community engagement, proactive policing, and continuous professional growth.

Job Summary

The Arlington County Police Department is offering a fully sponsored training opportunity for individuals seeking a career in law enforcement. Selected candidates will be employed as Police Recruits, receiving full tuition, books, and fees for the Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Training Academy (NVCJA), along with a paid training stipend.

Upon successful completion of the academy and passing the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) Law Enforcement Certification Examination, recruits will be promoted to Police Officer with full salary and benefits.

This is a paid, full-time position, and overtime provisions under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) apply.

⚠️ Note: Applicants must complete all required documentation, including prior job responsibilities and supplemental questions, before submitting their application.

Primary Responsibilities

• Attend and complete all required coursework, physical training, and exams at the Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Training Academy (NVCJA).
• Participate in department-assigned tasks during academy recess periods, as directed by the ACPD Personnel and Recruitment Unit.
• Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and a strong commitment to community service throughout training.
• Successfully pass the Virginia DCJS Law Enforcement Certification Examination to become a Certified Police Officer.

Sponsorship Terms & Commitment

In accordance with Virginia state requirements, candidates accepted into the Sponsored Recruit Program must agree to the following conditions:

• ACPD will cover one (1) attempt at the Virginia DCJS Law Enforcement Certification Examination.
• Recruits must complete academy training within the designated timeframe.
• Upon obtaining certification, recruits will be appointed as full-time Police Officers with ACPD.
• Recruits must remain employed with ACPD for a minimum of two (2) years after certification.

Minimum Qualifications

To participate in the Police Officer recruitment process, all candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Education: 60 semester hours or 90 quarter hours of college coursework from an accredited institution, with exceptions for law enforcement or military experience.
• Age: At least 20 years and 6 months of age at the time of application.
• Citizenship: U.S. citizenship or valid permanent resident status with intent to become a U.S. citizen.

Education Requirement Substitutions:

• Law Enforcement Experience: One year of full-time sworn law enforcement experience after graduating from an accredited law enforcement academy.
• Military Experience: Two years of continuous, full-time active-duty military service with an honorable discharge.

Selection Process

The ACPD hiring process is multi-phased, requiring candidates to pass each stage to be considered eligible for hire. These stages include:

1. Application Screening: Verification of minimum qualifications.
2. Written Examination: Completion of the National Testing Network (NTN) Law Enforcement Exam.
3. Panel Interview: In-person or virtual interview with ACPD officers.
4. Background Investigation: Comprehensive review, including fingerprinting and character assessment.
5. Polygraph Examination: Conducted in-person.
6. Psychological Evaluation: Formal interview and testing with a psychologist.
7. Medical Examination: Comprehensive physical evaluation, including a drug screening.

Offer of Employment

Upon successful completion of all phases, candidates may receive a probationary offer of employment. Recruits will attend the Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Training Academy (NVCJA) in Ashburn, Virginia, with winter and summer sessions beginning in January and July. Recruits are paid their full salary plus benefits beginning on their date of hire.

Benefits

All ACPD officers are eligible for Arlington County government employee benefits, including:

• Health and dental insurance
• Vacation and sick leave
• Commuter transportation subsidies
• Tuition reimbursement
• Generous retirement plan for uniformed public safety officers
• Additional pay for certifications and specialty areas