Police Officer

BPD Recruiting – Boston Police Department Skip to content BPD Recruiting Serving Boston Since 1854 About the Boston Police Department The Boston Police Department is one of the oldest municipal police departments in the United States. Our mission is to work in partnership with the community to fight crime, reduce fear, and improve the quality of life in every Boston neighborhood. From community policing and neighborhood outreach to major investigations and specialized units, BPD is committed to professionalism, integrity, and transparency. We're looking for officers who reflect the diversity, talent, and values of the communities we serve. Community-Based Neighborhood officers, youth outreach, and partnerships with local organizations are at the core of our work. Values-Driven Integrity, respect, and accountability guide every decision we make and every call we respond to. Modern Training Recruit officers receive academy and field training focused on de-escalation, procedural justice, and officer wellness. Career Support From mentorship to promotional opportunities, you'll have support throughout your BPD career. Careers with Purpose Why Choose a Career with BPD? Join one of the nation's leading police departments and build a rewarding career serving Boston. As a Boston Police Officer, you'll receive competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities to advance while making a real difference in your community. Competitive Compensation Receive competitive salary with overtime opportunities, plus comprehensive health and dental insurance, life insurance, and a pension plan. View Salary Chart Career Advancement Clear promotional paths to detective, sergeant, lieutenant, and captain with specialized units including K9, Homicide, Human Trafficking, and Community Engagement. Paid Training Academy 32-week paid academy program featuring procedural justice studies, de-escalation tactics, physical training, and mental endurance preparation. Education Incentive and Public Service Loan Forgiveness Programs designed to support educational goals and long-term benefits available through public service. Serve Your Community Connect with residents, help those in need, and make a positive impact in Boston neighborhoods you know and care about. Diverse & Inclusive Join a department committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, serving all members of our community with empathy and integrity. Where your career can go Specialized Assignments After gaining experience as a patrol officer, you may have opportunities to pursue specialized units. Assignments vary based on department needs and officer qualifications. Detective Bureau K-9 Unit Special Operations / SWAT Mounted Unit Harbor Patrol School Police / Youth Services Community Engagement Units Cyber & Digital Evidence From Interest to Academy The Hiring Process Our recruiting team will guide you through each step. The process typically takes several months and follows civil service requirements to ensure we select the most qualified candidates. 01 Step One Civil Service Exam or Local Register Register online and take the Massachusetts Civil Service Exam ($75 fee; waivers may be available). The exam is offered annually, and study guides are available on the state's website. Applicants may also apply through the Local Registry Pathway. 02 Step Two Invitation to Sign the List Qualified candidates are invited to sign the eligibility list based on exam results and applicable preferences. List placement determines the order in which candidates move forward. 03 Step Three Background Investigation Complete an extensive application packet and undergo a background investigation, including drug screening and review by Recruit Investigations Unit detectives. 04 Step Four Conditional Offer Letter Candidates who successfully complete the background investigation may receive a conditional offer of employment, contingent upon completion of all remaining required steps. 05 Step Five Medical & Psychological Evaluation Candidates must complete medical and psychological evaluations as part of the hiring process to assess overall readiness and suitability for service as a Boston Police Officer. 06 Step Six PAT Training Candidates participate in Physical Ability Test (PAT) training as part of the hiring process to prepare for required physical fitness standards. 07 Step Seven MPTC Test Candidates must pass the Massachusetts Police Training Committee (MPTC) entrance examination as part of the required pre-academy process. View Fitness Standards 08 Step Eight Academy Training Attend the paid 32-week Boston Police Academy, which includes classroom instruction, tactical training, and physical conditioning. 09 Step Nine Graduation & Probationary Period Upon successful graduation from the Academy, officers enter a probationary period that includes supervised field training and performance evaluation. Minimum Requirements to Become a Boston Police Officer Age Requirements Must be between 19 and 39 years old at the time of taking the Civil Service Exam. Applicants using the Local Registry Pathway may apply up to age 40. No more than 39 years old on exam date Must be 21 years old to enter the Boston Police Academy Test results valid for up to 2 years Education Requirements High school diploma or GED certificate OR Three years of military service with honorable discharge Residency & Licensing Valid Massachusetts Driver's License Boston resident for at least 1 year before exam date To claim the Boston Residency Preference through Civil Service, applicants must have lived in Boston for at least one year prior to taking the exam. Applicants applying through the Local Registry Pathway are not required to meet a prior residency requirement but must obtain and maintain Boston residency by the first day of the Academy. Additional Information Must pass background check and drug screening Must pass Physical Abilities Test (PAT) Must pass ROC Entry-Level Fitness Stand