Please see below for frequently asked questions we receive.
How long will I have to take the NTN after I receive instructions from my background investigator?
The NTN exam must be taken within ten (10) business days of receiving instructions from your background investigator.
Will I have to come to DC to take the NTN test? Can I take it from home?
The NTN is a proctored exam and must be completed in a testing location, but you will not have to travel to DC to take the exam, you may take the NTN at a location close to home.
Do I qualify to become an MPD officer?
You must be at least 20 1/2 years of age or older (21 years of age at time of appointment), a United States citizen or lawful permanent resident, have a valid driver’s license, and have completed 60 college credits; or you must have 2 years of active duty military with an honorable discharge (if applicable); or you must have 3 years of prior police (full service department) experience.
Are MPD members required to live in D.C.?
No. There are no restrictions on residency. MPD police officers live wherever they want. Each MPD officer is responsible for reporting to work on time regardless of where they live. There is a 10-point preference given to applicants who claim residency preference at the time of application.
Does MPD have a maximum age limit?
MPD does not have a maximum age limit to apply as a recruit; however, a sworn officer must retire at 64 years of age.
Do I need prior law enforcement training to be a DC police officer?
Prior law enforcement training is not necessary, MPD will equip participants with the skills and training needed to graduate from the academy.
How long is the background investigation process?
The entire selection process may take up to six months, but this estimated time depends on various factors: the number of times an applicant has moved, the number of different states an applicant has lived in, or a lengthy work history. Your response to requests from your background investigator in meeting any deadlines or appointments will also play a role in how long the process will take.
How many times do I have to report to DC in person during the hiring process?
You will be required to visit the Washington metropolitan area approximately three times. Those times will be for MPD Prospect Day, polygraph testing, and the psychological/medical evaluation.
If I have a security clearance, do I still need a background check?
Yes. MPD will conduct its own background investigation whether you have a clearance or not. Having all of your documents prepared and information ready will help expedite your process.
I finished my polygraph examination and medical/psychological evaluations – now what?
If you have already completed your polygraph examination and medical/psychological evaluations the Recruiting Division is actively working on your background at this time. We receive the polygraph reports quickly; however, it may take 30 days or longer for the medical reports to be received. Feel free to reach out frequently to your background investigator as well while the remainder of your background is finalized.
What should I do if the polygraph and medical assessments are taking a long time?
Both the polygraph and medical assessments take a little bit of time for the Department to receive your disposition. It is our recommendation that you inquire regarding your polygraph/medical disposition directly with your assigned background investigator.
Regarding official and unofficial transcripts and expungements – do I bring those to Prospect Day?
If you are unable to obtain a copy of your official college transcript, we will ask that you bring an unofficial copy with you and provide the original within 10 days of completing MPD Prospect Day. If you have any expungements, those documents must be provided on the date of MPD Prospect Day.
What is the Written Examination?
The written examination is part of the FrontLine Testing System which includes: a video-based human relations test, a reading ability test and a report writing test. Testing takes approximately 2-4 hours.
What are the passing scores on the written examination?
In order to successfully pass the National Testing Network's FrontLine National examination for MPD, applicants must obtain at least a 55% on the video scenarios and a 70% on the reading and writing portions.
Will I be paid more for having a degree?
MPD does not pay more for applicants with a degree.
Does MPD have a tattoo policy?
Yes, tattoos that are offensive cannot be visible to the public. Beyond that, there are no further restrictions on tattoos.
I am in the military - can I start the process of applying to become an MPD police officer if I have not yet received my DD-214?
Yes, you can still begin the process. However, the DD-214 must be provided to the Recruiting Division before you can be hired.
I’m interested in professional staff employment opportunities. Where do I apply for those positions?
To apply for a civilian position, please visit http://careers.dc.gov and sort by "Metropolitan Police Department."
What are the requirements to join MPD as a police officer? Do I qualify?
You must be at least 20 years and 6 months of age to apply (21 to be appointed as an officer), be a US citizen, by birth or naturalization, OR a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) at the time of application, have a valid driver’s license and have completed 60 college credits; or you must have 2 years of active duty military with an honorable discharge (if applicable); or you must have 3 years of prior police (full service department) experience.
Do I need to reside in the District of Columbia in order to be an MPD police officer?
No, there are no restrictions on residency preferences. MPD police officers live wherever they want. Each MPD officer is responsible for reporting to work on time regardless of where they live. However, there are many benefits to living in the District of Columbia – from the wonderful neighborhoods, nightlife, restaurants, recreation areas and events throughout the city, living in the District has many benefits. Furthermore, MPD provides incentives for new officers to make Washington, DC their home. Visit the "Pay and Benefits" tab to learn more about the housing benefits available to new MPD officers.
How are MPD Police Officers compensated?
The Metropolitan Police Department offers one of the most competitive pay and benefits packages in the region. The annual starting salary for police officers is $66,419; and after successful completion of the 18-month probationary period members earn $72,668. Recruits begin earning their full salary upon entering the Academy. A top step officer can earn an annual salary of $110,478. Officers who work the evening tour of duty receive a three percent pay differential. Officers working the midnight shift receive a four percent differential.
I speak more than one language. How can this benefit me?
Yes, MPD has a language stipend program. Police officers who are certified as fluent in any language other than English, including American Sign Language, receive a $50 stipend per pay period approximately an extra $1,300 per year. To qualify for the stipend, members must pass a certification test administered by an outside contractor.
How long is the selection process from the time I apply to the time I am hired?
The entire selection process may take up to 4-to-6 months, but this estimated time depends on various factors, such as: the number of times an applicant has moved, the number of different states an applicant has lived in, or a lengthy work history. Your response to requests from your background investigator in meeting any deadlines or appointments will also play a role in how long the process will take.
What is the Written Examination?
The written examination is part of the Frontline Testing System which includes: a video-based human relations test, a reading ability test and a report writing test. Testing takes approximately two-four hours.
I have a degree (or credits) from a college or university outside of the United States, what should I do?
You need to have your degree evaluated from a member organization of one of two national associations of credential evaluation services. The national associations below are comprised of multiple credential evaluation service companies. The Metropolitan Police Department does not endorse or recommend any specific companies.
- National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES)
- Association of International Credentials Evaluators (AICE)
Where is the academy located?
The academy is located at 4665 Blue Plains Drive SW, Washington, DC.
When is the next academy class?
Academy classes are held monthly.
While in the Academy, do I live there?
The MPD Academy is not residential; however, recruit officers may live at a temporary residential housing facility, while transitioning to Washington, DC. Additionally, the MPD Recruit Rental Assistance Program is designed to assist new police officers in their transition to working and living in the communities they serve in Washington, DC. New recruits who choose to live in DC receive rental assistance of $1,000 per month for up to six months, for properties in DC.
How long is the academy training?
MPD's Academy includes approximately 24 weeks of intensive academic and physical skills training. This includes training on legal aspects of policing, policies of the Metropolitan Police Department and tactical training.
Will I start getting paid while at the Academy?
Yes, you will begin earning your full salary upon entering the Academy.
Do I need prior law enforcement training?
No, we will equip you with the skills and training that you need to graduate from the academy.
Where will I be assigned?
At the conclusion of your academy training, you will be assigned to one of the seven patrol districts. You will be provided an opportunity to request the district you would like to go to, but the final decision will be based on the needs of the department.
How do I become a detective, Sergeant, ERT member, K9 member, or a member of another type of specialized unit?
Each specialized unit has different requirements including the length of time in the department. For example, to be eligible for detective, you must have three years of patrol experience, but to become a sergeant, you must have four years before taking the promotional exam. Constant hard work and dedication to the job along with a high degree of self-motivation will serve those who seek promotion.
When can I retire?
Sworn members are eligible for retirement after 25 years of service with MPD at any age.
I have less than three years of police experience – can I apply as a lateral police officer?
Yes, an officer with less than three years of police experience can be accepted as a lateral officer as long as they have 60 college credits or at least 2 years of active-duty military service.
I have less than three years of police experience and I do not have two years of military or 60 college credits, do I qualify as a lateral police officer?
No, lateral police officers must still meet the minimum requirements (60 college credits OR 3 years of law enforcement experience OR 2 years of active-duty military service).
I was a police officer two years ago – do I qualify as a lateral?
No, lateral police officers must have served within the past 12 months in a position with duties to include primarily the investigation, apprehension, or detention of individuals suspected or convicted of offenses against the criminal laws of the United States of America or any state of the United States of America.
What is the minimum amount of prior experience as a police officer to qualify as a lateral?
You must have at least one year of service to qualify for a lateral. You also need to have at least 60 college credits OR two years of active-duty military service.
Does the time I spent in the police academy count towards my prior police service?
Yes.
I worked for two police departments. Can I add that time together to qualify?
No, you can only claim eligibility of prior law enforcement service from one agency.
What is the Police Cadet Corps?
The Police Cadet Corps is designed to prepare candidates for entrance into the Metropolitan Police Officer Recruit Program and ensures that a steady stream of District of Columbia youth is actively recruited as future police officers.
How does a cadet qualify for college tuition benefits?
Cadets must be full-time students at UDC and full-time civilian employees with MPD.
How long does it take for a cadet to convert to a full-time police officer?
Cadets convert to career police status upon completion of up to sixty (60) college credits and acceptance into the Recruit Officer Training Program phase.
When is the next Academy class?
We are currently accepting applications for the Fall Reserve Recruit Class.
What is the difference between serving as a Reserve Officer and an Entry-Level Officer?
Reserve Police Officers are volunteers. Members of the Reserve Corps serve in patrol-related capacities, typically are armed members and are expected to volunteer at least 24 hours per month. Entry-level officers are full time employees and receive compensation for their service. While on patrol both reserve police officers and career police officers have the same duties.
What are the expenses associated with becoming a volunteer officer?
There are no formal expenses to join the Reserve Corps. All initial application costs are covered by the Department. During training, all required uniform and equipment items are provided to each member at no cost. Upon graduation from the training academy, there are no further costs. The Department does not reimburse members for travel to and from their duty assignments; however, while on duty the Department covers all costs associated with a member’s volunteer service.
Does MPD provide insurance or other benefits in case I am hurt while volunteering?
In the unexpected and unfortunate instance that a Reserve Corps member is injured in the line of duty, all Reserve Corps members are covered by the District of Columbia’s workman’s compensation program.
How often do I have to serve if I join the Reserve Corps?
The Reserve Corps is a volunteer organization. Upon completion of the intensive training and field training programs, armed members are expected to volunteer at least 24 hours per month. Unarmed members are expected to volunteer at least 16 hours per month. Many of our volunteers go well above and beyond the minimum expectations, as they enjoy providing voluntary service to the Washington, DC community.
Do I have to testify if I make an arrest? I have a full-time job that would make it difficult to appear during the day.
Yes. As a sworn reserve police officer in the District of Columbia, you are required to comply with all mandatory court appearances (i.e., papering, preliminary hearings, and trials). Each applicant should consider their full-time employment when deciding whether the Reserve Corps is right for them.
Are there any differences in the uniform that Reserve members wear?
Reserve Corps members are issued identical equipment to their career service counterparts. Reserve officers have a badge in the ‘8000’ series.
Can Reserve members drive MPD vehicles and use other Department resources?
Yes. Reserve Corps officers are fully trained police officers in the District of Columbia.
What is the culture like within the Reserve Corps?
The Reserve Corps maintains a positive culture dedicated to volunteer service. Members contribute considerable portions of their time to help strengthen the police department and the Washington, DC community. The best way to understand the Reserve Corps’ culture is to come to a New Candidate Orientation or do a ride-along with one of our members.
Do I get to choose where I can patrol as a Reserve member?
Each Reserve Corps member can request their top three police district preferences at the time of graduation. Although consideration is given to each member’s preference, ultimately the location of assignment is determined by the Department based upon operational needs.
Is temporary housing available while I am a recruit?
Rental assistance is available of $1,000 a month for 6 months for a residence in DC up to $6,000. If you use the Temporary Housing benefit, that amount is deducted from this total $6,000 benefit.
Does MPD offer a tuition reimbursement program?
Yes, you may seek reimbursement up to $800 per semester, with a maximum allowance of $2,400 per academic year. Further, you must maintain a C average, and you can begin receiving this benefit upon hire.
What type of leave do MPD employees receive?
For annual Leave - 13 days to start, 20 days after 3 years, 26 days after 15 years. For sick Leave - 13 days per year and may accumulate without any limit over career. For paid holidays, you will receive 11 paid holidays annually.
Do officers have to pay for their uniform and equipment?
Uniforms and equipment are provided at no cost to the officer. Only items officers pay for are socks, shoes, and regular belt for pants.
Do MPD officers receive take home vehicles?
MPD does offer take home vehicles as a benefit to some officers. Each police district has vehicles that are assigned as take homes. Typically, officers must reside in DC to receive a take home, unless for specialized unit responsibilities.
I speak more than one language. Will I get paid more?
Yes, MPD has a language stipend program. Upon successfully passing a foreign language test that emphasizes conversation skills, you will receive a language stipend of $50 per pay period or $1,300 per year in additional pay. This can be earned while you are in the academy.
What does the MPD Volunteer Corps do?
The Volunteer Corps provides community members an opportunity to assist with the daily operations of the Metropolitan Police Department. The Department uses the services of volunteers wherever possible to increase community members' exposure to the operations of the Department and to benefit from the skills and abilities they may contribute. Volunteers serve as knowledgeable ambassadors to and of the communities they represent, thus strengthening the Department's community relationships.
What are the expenses associated with service in the MPD Volunteer Corps?
There are no formal expenses to join. All initial application costs are covered by the Department. During training, all required uniform and equipment items are furnished to each member at no cost (except for under garments and boots). Upon graduation from the training academy, there are no further costs. The Department does not reimburse members for travel to and from their duty assignments; however, while on duty the Department covers all costs associated with a member’s volunteer service.
Why should I choose an internship with the MPD?
Collegiate Interns with the MPD receive excellent hands-on training and experience. Supervisors at the MPD are invested in each student's professional development and ensure a wide range of opportunities across the Department are made available to the student.
Is the MPD Collegiate Internship Program paid?
The internship is not paid; however, it is a possible path to full-time employment.
Can I receive credit for completing the MPD Collegiate Internship Program?
Many past interns have received academic credit for completing an internship with MPD. All arrangements must be made through your academic institution and the MPD will provide any required documentation once selected for the internship.
Is a car required for this internship?
Certain intern placements are only accessible by car. However, many of our interns do not have cars and are able to utilize the Metrorail and bus system. Whether or not you have a car will be taken into consideration when you are being placed to ensure you can access the placement location.
Do I have to be a Washington, DC, resident to participate in the internship?
Residency is not required. Students from around the country relocate to the DC region for a semester or the summer to participate in the internship program. Interns, however, will be responsible for their own housing arrangements.
I want to be a police officer when I graduate from school. Will I be able to participate in ride-alongs as part of my internship?
Absolutely, interns are encouraged to participate in ride-alongs to gain first-hand policing experience. These ride-alongs count as hours worked. Interns will also have the opportunity to participate in and assist with training at the Metropolitan Police Academy.
I don’t know what I want to do for a career. Will this internship help me make a decision?
In addition to daily intern duties, intern supervisors are able to accommodate each intern’s interests and expose them to a variety of units within the Department. Past interns have been able to participate in training at the Metropolitan Police Academy, conduct informational interviews with various members of the Department, participate in field trips with recruit officers, and even ride along with MPD's Harbor Patrol Unit.
I want to wear a uniform and gain hands-on law enforcement experience. Is this the right internship for me?
It is important to note that interns assist members of the Department and do not perform law enforcement duties. Certain placements are more hands-on than others. In addition to our internship program, feel free to consider our other volunteer opportunities, including reserve officer and citizen volunteer.
Will I be offered full-time employment with the MPD at the conclusion of my internship?
Completion of the internship does not guarantee full time employment; any person who wants to be employed by the MPD must complete the full hiring process. Graduating seniors may be eligible to participate in the Partnership for Experiential Learning track, during which they can complete the sworn hiring process during the second half of their internship. Many interns enjoy their experience with MPD and return as paid civilian employees, civilian volunteers, or sworn officers.
What does the background check consist of?
Intern applicants undergo a background check similar to that of sworn officers. Applicants will have to complete numerous questionnaires and will be asked to provide personal and professional references. More information will be provided after you submit your initial application.