Police Officer Requirements – Massachusetts
Minimum Requirements to be a Police Officer in Massachusetts
Massachusetts State Police Qualifications
- Must be at least 21 years old and less than 35 years old;
- Satisfy all statutory requirements for appointment to the Massachusetts State Police Academy including but not limited to passing a physical fitness test, medical examination including a psychological component;
- Must not smoke any tobacco product;
- Must not have been convicted of a felony or any offense punishable under M.G.L. Chapter 94C (drug law violations); or have any convicted of a misdemeanor and confined to any jail or house of correction as punishment for said crime.
- Demonstrate themselves to be of good moral character, sound work ethic, decision making consistent with the Oath of Office and otherwise suitable for appointment to the Massachusetts State Police Academy;
- Be qualified and deemed suitable by the Colonel/Superintendent to possess a valid Massachusetts Firearms License upon appointment to the Massachusetts State Police Academy;
- Possess a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) certificate upon appointment to the Massachusetts State Police Academy;
- Satisfy the Department’s physical fitness standards for initial appointments, as promulgated and amended;
- Satisfy the Department’s medical and psychological standards for initial appointment, as promulgated and amended;
- Be a United States Citizen upon appointment to the Massachusetts State Police Academy;
- Possess a valid Massachusetts Driver’s License upon appointment to the Massachusetts State Police Academy;
- Be a Massachusetts resident upon appointment to the Massachusetts State Police Academy;