TPD FAQ
STRAIGHT ANSWERS TO COMMON QUESTIONS
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Here are answers to some of our most commonly asked questions from prospective recruits. But, as always, we encourage you to reach out to one of our dedicated recruiters to get you where you are going faster.
APPLICATION
Does prior experience in policing help my chances?
While having a prior work history is an asset to an applicant, having prior police experience does not make one candidate more favorable over another.
Do I have to have a college degree?
Yes. All applicants must possess a 4-year degree from an accredited college or university and be a U.S. citizen.
Can I get hired even if I have a police record?
All applicants will undergo a police background check before being hired. Any person with a felony conviction or a conviction for a crime of moral turpitude is ineligible for employment with the Tulsa Police Department.
What are the age requirements to join?
All applicants must be between 21 and 45 years old. The state pension board
requires applicants begin the academy before their 46th birthday.
If I have a Master's Degree or higher level education, will I receive additional education incentive pay?
How often can I interview for the Police Department?
How long is the hiring process?
From the time of application through the start of Academy, the hiring process usually takes 6 to 8 months.
As an out-of-state applicant, how many trips will I be expected to make during the application process?
We try to get all mandatory testing out of the way for out-of-state applicants in one day.
TESTING
Is there a fee to take the entry-level exam?
No. There is no cost to take the entry-level written exam.
When I test, will I take both the written and physical exam?
Yes. The physical exam will be administered first followed by the written. Study guides will be provided prior to testing.
How many questions are on the written exam and how long will the written exam take?
There are a total of 240 items on the written exam with a 2½-hour time limit for completion. In addition, other information and instructions will be distributed. Applicants should plan on being at the testing facility for at least four hours from the report time.
If I do not pass the written exam, how soon may I re-test?
Any person who does not pass the written exam may re-test after six months.
Can I re-take the exam in order to get a higher score?
A person may re-take the written exam if they were passed over during an Academy selection process.
Do I have to re-take the written exam if I'm not hired?
No. Your written exam score is valid for two years.
ACADEMY
How long is the Tulsa Police Academy?
The Tulsa Police Department Apprentice Police Officer (APO) Academy lasts approximately 7 months.
Where is the Tulsa Police Academy?
The Tulsa Police Academy is located at 6066 East 66th St North in Tulsa.
What hours am I required to be at the Academy?
APOs normally report to training Monday through Friday from 7:45 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., although hours may vary due to training requirements.
What if I'm already a police officer, do I still need to attend the Academy?
Yes. Since Tulsa does not have a lateral entry program, you must successfully complete the normal hiring process and academy training, as would any other police recruit.
If hired, do I have to pay for the training?
No. The training is free. In fact, you receive a salary and benefits during your time in the Academy. See current salaries here.
Is a clothing and an equipment allowance given?
Yes. The first clothing and equipment allowance provided to an employee after completion of the Tulsa Police Academy shall be $850. Each subsequent year thereafter the clothing allowance shall be $850. (Per FOP Contract)
How many people will be hired in the next academy?
The size and frequency of the academy classes are determined by the City of Tulsa's annual budget.
GENERAL
Will I receive a take-home car?
All Tulsa Police Officers are allowed to take their TPD vehicle home for free, provided they live within Tulsa city limits. For those officers who live outside of the Tulsa city limits, but within a forty (40) mile radius of the center of the Tulsa (41st & Yale), can still take their vehicles home for a nominal fee. (Per FOP Contract).
What shifts do patrol officers work?
Currently, officers work either four (4) ten-hour or five (5) eight-hour shifts weekly. Specialty units and detectives may work five (5) eight-hour shifts, depending on their assignments.
What is the Pre-Hire Program?
Depending on the budget allocated from the City of Tulsa, the Tulsa Police Department offers a number of sucessful Academy applicants "pre-hire" positions with TPD, functioning as a civilian. This is an opportunity for the pre-hire to gain valuable exposure to the department prior to the start of the Academy. The pre-hire slots are competetive and based on candidate background, skillset, and availability, as well as the current needs of the department. Pre-hires typically begin employment anywhere from 2 to 3 months prior to the start of their Academy class.
Does TPD have an internship program?
Yes. TPD's internship is a competetive program that provides selected applicants with the opportunity to support the Tulsa Police Department in a civilian capacity, while learning how police work is done. For more information, visit our TPD Internship page.
Where can I learn about the Tulsa Citizen's Police Academy?
Click here to learn about the Tulsa Citizen's Police Academy.
What is TPD's policy for tattoos?
Tattoos cannot be visible while wearing a class "A", long-sleeve uniform.
What is TPD's policy on recruit facial hair?
No facial hair.