Step 5: Fulfill local credentialing requirements (timeline varies)

Requirements to become a detective can vary by state. Since most states have different requirements to become a police officer, steps to join the state’s detective division may also vary.

Overall, some police departments require prospective detectives to hold only a high school diploma or GED, while others require some college courses or a two- to four-year college degree.

• For example, to join the Los Angeles Police Department Detective Bureau, one must have a high school diploma or GED and detective or sergeant is the first promotion available to those who have trained as officers.
• However, to join the New York Police Department, applicants must have 60 college credits or have served two years in the military to be a successful candidate.
• In Dallas, TX, applicants who are between the ages of 21 and 44 must have 45 semester-credits (college-level) and a 2.0 GPA.
• Whereas, in Miami, Florida, applicants will need to pass a law enforcement exam (FBAT – Florida Basic Abilities Test), in addition to earning a GED or high school diploma.

In short, the requirements to become a detective vary widely by state. Aspiring candidates are encouraged to reach out to their local government offices to find out about eligibility.