Hiring FAQs

Q: Do I need to have a college degree?
A: No, you do not have to have a college degree to become a police officer with the City of Auburn.

Q: What all do I have to do for the PT test?
A: The PT test is set by the Alabama Peace Officers' Standards and Training Commission (APOSTC) and includes:

• A physical agility course (90 seconds)
  • Pushing a vehicle 15 feet
  • Scaling a 6-foot wooden or chain link fence
  • Climbing through a 2-foot by 2-foot window
  • Crossing a 15-foot, 6-inch wide balance beam
  • Dragging a 165-pound, dead-weight object (dummy) 15-feet
• 22 Push-ups (60 seconds)
• 25 Sit-ups (60 seconds)
• 1.5 mile run (15 minutes and 28 seconds)

Q: How long is the hiring process?
A: While the process can vary, there are typically four to six weeks between the date of the PT test and officers' official hiring date.

Q: What all does the hiring process include?
A: The process includes:

• PT test
• First panel interview
• Polygraph
• Background check
• Second panel interview

Pending the acceptance of a conditional offer of employment:

• Conditional offer of employment
• Psychological examination
• Drug screen
• Physical examination
• Begin work with the City of Auburn

Q: Does Auburn Police Department accept lateral transfers? 
A: Yes, we encourage POST Certificate police officers who have excelled in their law enforcement careers and are up to the task of meeting the high standards of APD to apply.

Out-of-state lateral transfers are at the discretion of the Alabama Peace Officers' Standards and Training Commission. Pending approval, lateral candidates will be eligible for an abbreviated 3-week academy that recognizes their standing as an experienced Peace Officer and not a new recruit.

Q: How long is the police academy?
A: The police academy lasts approximately 14 weeks.

Q: Where is the police academy?
A: While there are multiple police academies throughout the state, the Auburn Police Department typically utilizes the Northeast Alabama Law Enforcement Academy in Anniston, Alabama.

Q: When would I go to the academy?
A: There are typically three sessions throughout the year.

Q: What happens after the police academy?
A: There is a field training program that takes approximately 16 weeks.

Q: Will I have to buy any of my own equipment or uniforms?
A: No, you will be issued all uniforms and necessary equipment.

Q: Will tattoos affect my ability to become a police officer?
A: No, candidates with tattoos who are subsequently hired must ensure that the tattoos are not visible to the public while on-duty.

Q: What if I want to be a detective, on the SWAT team, be a K-9 handler, etc.?
A: All specialized units require a minimum of two years of service as a uniformed patrol officer before you can be considered for a specialized unit.

Q: Do you offer any student positions?
A: The Auburn Police Department employs Student Public Safety Specialists to assist with tasks such as writing tickets for handicapped zone and parking violations, giving directions, assisting with traffic control, data entry, assisting in records and other various duties. As one of Public Safety's student programs, Student Public Safety Specialists have the opportunity to work their way through school and earn valuable skills while earning an hourly wage and having their tuition reimbursed. Learn more in the program brochure or contact Lt. Reid Chambers at 334-501-7345.

Interested in working with us?

Auburn Police Department provides opportunities for sworn officers and civilians. View open positions online or call 334-501-3110 and ask to speak with a recruiter.

The City of Auburn is an equal opportunity employer.