▼

Police

Show All Answers

1. Where can I find job opportunities with the Police Department?

Check the City of Terrell website or the Terrell Police Department Facebook page to find the next testing date.

2. What is the application process?

The process to join the Police Department is as follows:

1. Apply
2. Written and Physical Tests
3. Complete the Personal History Statement
4. Oral Interview Board and Background Investigation
5. Job Offer
6. Pass a polygraph, psychological, drug screen, and physical
7. Academy (If needed)

3. What should I expect on test day?

Applicants passing the written examination with a minimum raw score of 70 will be administered a physical agility test, on-site. Bring appropriate clothing for physical activity. The basic physical tests will be demonstrated and will consist of:  Warm up and stretching (5 mins.), 25 Military form push-ups (1 min.), 30 Standard form sit-ups (1 minute), and a 1.25-mile run (13 minutes and 15 seconds).

Upon hire, qualifying applicants will be paid full-time, receive benefits, and be provided a transport vehicle while attending the Police Academy.

Lateral pay transfers are available for certified applicants. Please call Deputy Chief of Police A.D. Sansom at 469-474-2666 for more information.

4. Do you offer a study guide for the written test? What is the test over?

No, the written test is comprised of basic reading, writing and arithmetic skills, and memory recall.

5. I have previously used marijuana; will that disqualify me?

If you have used marijuana at any time in the last 2 years that will disqualify you.

6. Will a family violence conviction disqualify me?

Yes.

7. I have a Class B or higher conviction; will that disqualify me?

A Class B conviction within the last 10 years will disqualify you. Any conviction higher than a Class B will permanently disqualify you.

8. When will I start the police academy?

Academy dates are scheduled based on open enrollment availability at North Central Texas Regional Police Academy.

9. Do you recognize other state’s police officer certifications?

Yes, the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) will allow you to challenge the Texas test without attending the academy again. We will prepare you for that if hired. This does take some time, so it would help to contact TCOLE and start the paperwork as soon as possible.

10. What is the age limit?

Local Government Code 143 requires that you be at least 21 years old and eligible to be licensed by the state of Texas and you must be certified before your 45th birthday.

11. I have used heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, steroids or any other illegal narcotic at some point in my life, would that disqualify me?

Yes, having used any illegal narcotic at any point in your life will disqualify you.

12. How long is the hiring process?

The hiring process takes approximately 2 months.

13. Is a college degree required?

No, but you will need a high school diploma.

14. What is the work schedule?

We work 12-hour shifts, Sunday through Tuesday or Wednesday through Friday, and every other Saturday.

15. What police officer positions are open?

Patrol; everyone starts out in Patrol.

16. I have failed the written or physical test in the past, can I test again?

Absolutely.

17. What is your tattoo policy?

Visible tattoos on the ears, neck, head, or face area are prohibited. Officers with tattoos/branding may be required to cover them if they are unsightly, profane, or deemed inappropriate by the Chief of Police or his designee.

18. What is your facial hair policy?

At this time, a well-groomed mustache, beard, goatee, and certain facial hair are permitted as determined by policy.

19. What specialized divisions does Terrell offer?

We currently have:

• Patrol
• K9
• Narcotics
• Criminal Investigation Department
• Traffic
• SWAT

20. How do I apply?

Visit our Human Resources Department How to Apply page for more information.