Arizona POST Requirements

Minimum Requirements

• Age: At least 21 years old to be appointed as a peace officer; 20 to enter many academies.
• Education: High school diploma or GED.
• Citizenship: U.S. citizen.
• Driver license: Valid driver’s license (Arizona license required by appointment).
• Criminal history: No felony convictions; no domestic violence convictions; must meet AZPOST moral character standards.
• Other requirements:
  • Pass background check and polygraph.
  • Pass psychological and medical examinations.
  • Pass drug screening.
  • Meet AZPOST physical ability standards.

Physical Fitness Standards

Arizona POST requires recruits to meet standardized physical fitness tests before academy graduation.

• 1.5-mile run.
• 300-meter sprint.
• Push-ups (timed).
• Sit-ups (timed).
• Agility and job-task-based training.

Standards follow a Cooper-style scoring system adjusted by age and sex.

Academy Training Requirements

Minimum academy hours: 585

Arizona POST requires a minimum of 585 hours for basic training; most academies exceed 600 hours.

Reference: Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board (AZPOST) – Basic Training.

Reciprocity / Lateral Entry

Arizona offers a Waiver of Training test for officers with prior out-of-state, federal, or military police training.

• Submit training records to AZPOST for evaluation.
• If approved, complete the Waiver exam process (written + skills test).
• If not approved, must attend a full Arizona basic academy.

Experience must be recent (typically within 3 years).

POST Contact Information

Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board (AZPOST)
2643 E University Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85034
Phone: (602) 223-2514
Website: https://post.az.gov

Official POST Requirements:
https://post.az.gov/certification-process