Police Officer Employment and Testing

Hiring Process

21 years of age
Associate’s degree or two years (90 quarter hours/60 semester hours) of general course work toward a degree at an accredited college or university
U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
Able to pass physical ability test prior to hire and throughout the Basic Law Enforcement Academy (BLEA)
Vision 20/100 uncorrected each eye (corrected to 20/20).
Valid driver’s license
No record of felony convictions

Complete written exam and physical ability test through publicsafetytesting.com
- Written exam
- Physical ability test
Complete personal history statement on publicsafetytesting.com

After completing the written exam and personal history statement, you will be invited to apply by the city of Bellingham Human Resources Department
- Ensure you have educational transcripts and military discharge paperwork prepared
You will then be scheduled for an interview with Bellingham Police Department

After a conditional offer of employment is given, the candidate will need to complete the following requirements, in no specific order:
- Polygraph exam
- Psychological exam
- Background investigation
- Medical exam
A final offer of employment will only be given upon passing all the above requirements.

Recruit officer status at hire date and during the Basic Law Enforcement Academy (BLEA)
12 month probationary period, post BLEA
Post-BLEA move to full performance police officer classification
Labor agreement and pay scale
Experienced law enforcement officers may start at a higher step within the pay range.
An extensive benefit package including medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage for employee, spouse and dependents.
The state- wide Washington Law Enforcement and Firefighters Pension Plan (LEOFF) provides retirement benefits.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application/examination process should contact Human Resources

Hiring Process

Minimum Requirements

Step 1 – Testing

Step 2 – Application and interview

Step 3 – Completing the Hiring Process

After being hired

Equal Opportunity Employer

More Information

Resources