Public Safety Officer Hiring Process

Entry-Level Hiring Process
No prior certifications or licenses needed!

The PSO application and testing process isn’t your average job interview - as seen from the process below, candidates complete a thorough and competitive testing process before being hired as a PSO. The PSO hiring process includes the following steps:

1. PSO application and notice of exam posted online;
2. Written exam;
3. Top candidates participate in a first interview with the Public Safety Commission;
4. Candidates placed on an initial eligibility list and invited to apply for preference points (extra points for military service or prior employment as a police officer or firefighter);
5. Candidates undergo a thorough background check and polygraph test;
6. Top-candidates participate in a final interview with the Public Safety Commission;
7. Selected candidates receive a conditional offer of employment and complete a medical exam, drug test and psychological exam. 

• U.S. Citizen at the time of filing an application
• Minimum age 20 years and 6 months as of January 6, 2024
• Under age 35 as of January 6, 2024, unless eligible for an exception outlined in the Public Safety Commission Rules and Regulations
• High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent
• 60 hours of college credit from a nationally accredited junior college, college or university by December 31, 2023
• Illinois Peace Officer Wellness Examination Report (POWER) test completed no earlier than six months prior to date of application and no later than January 31, 2024 (CPAT cards are not accepted)
• Valid state-issued driver's license
• No felony convictions, pursuant to Illinois State law