Washington POST Requirements

Minimum Requirements

• Age: At least 18–21 depending on agency; most require 21.
• Education: High school diploma or GED.
• Citizenship: U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (varies by agency).
• Driver license: Valid Washington driver’s license by appointment.
• Criminal history: No felony convictions; no disqualifying misdemeanors; no domestic violence convictions.
• Other requirements:
  • Pass background investigation and polygraph.
  • Pass medical exam and psychological evaluation.
  • Pass drug screening.
  • Must finish the Basic Law Enforcement Academy (BLEA) at CJTC.

Physical Fitness Standards

Washington CJTC requires a Physical Ability Test (PAT) for BLEA admission.

• 300-meter sprint.
• Push-ups (one-minute).
• Sit-ups (one-minute).
• 1.5-mile run.

Standards follow Cooper norms adapted by the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC).

Academy Training Requirements

Minimum academy hours: 720

Washington’s BLEA is a statewide academy delivered by CJTC and consists of 720 hours of mandated instruction.

Reference: Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission – Basic Law Enforcement Academy (BLEA).

Reciprocity / Lateral Entry

Washington offers an Equivalency Academy for out-of-state, tribal, federal, and military police with equivalent training.

• Submit proof of training and experience to CJTC.
• Attend the CJTC Equivalency Academy (3–4 week program).
• Pass all Washington-specific exams and skill tests.

Applicants must still meet all employer hiring requirements.

POST Contact Information

Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC)
19010 1st Ave S, Burien, WA 98148
Phone: (206) 835-7300
Website: https://cjtc.wa.gov

Official POST Requirements:
https://cjtc.wa.gov/training-education/basic-law-enforcement-academy