Once all that is done, when there is an opening on SWAT, you try out, along with everyone else in the department who wants to get in. If you are the top person, you get in.
To become a SWAT officer in a major department, you have to be recognized among the best officers and have 4+ years along with connections usually. Those are the minimum to even have a decent shot.
At some smaller departments, you can volunteer for SWAT w/o even much competition after passing probationary period.
If your goal is seeing minimal SWAT action and “getting a taste” then perhaps the easiest is after becoming an LEO to become a Tactical Medic or K-9 Handler and hope to get included on a SWAT callout. No guarantees there but would give a minimal taste and networking opportunities with SWAT as well.
Comments
Lots of really good cops never make the team.
You get hired.
You go through the police academy.
You go through Field Training.
You work in patrol for a minimum of 3-5 years.
Once all that is done, when there is an opening on SWAT, you try out, along with everyone else in the department who wants to get in. If you are the top person, you get in.
You need to know someone that knows someone that knows someone that knows the police chief. Really easy
Depends on the department.
To become a SWAT officer in a major department, you have to be recognized among the best officers and have 4+ years along with connections usually. Those are the minimum to even have a decent shot.
At some smaller departments, you can volunteer for SWAT w/o even much competition after passing probationary period.
If your goal is seeing minimal SWAT action and “getting a taste” then perhaps the easiest is after becoming an LEO to become a Tactical Medic or K-9 Handler and hope to get included on a SWAT callout. No guarantees there but would give a minimal taste and networking opportunities with SWAT as well.
Wanna hear other thoughts from everyone on this.