West Virginia POST Requirements

Minimum Requirements

• Age: 21 years old for certification (some agencies hire at 18 pending completion).
• Education: High school diploma or GED.
• Citizenship: U.S. citizen.
• Driver license: Valid driver’s license required.
• Criminal history: No felony convictions; no disqualifying misdemeanors.
• Other requirements:
  • Complete background investigation.
  • Medical, psychological, and drug screening.
  • Pass written and physical fitness tests.
  • Must complete the WV State Police Academy basic course.

Physical Fitness Standards

WV uses strict Cooper-based minimum fitness standards for entrance.

• 1.5-mile run
• Push-ups (1 minute)
• Sit-ups (1 minute)
• Flexibility & agility tasks

Standards increase mid-academy and at graduation.

Academy Training Requirements

Minimum academy hours: 840

The WV State Police Academy program for entry-level officers lasts approximately 20–22 weeks (~840 hours).

Reference: WV Law Enforcement Professional Standards – Entry Training.

Reciprocity / Lateral Entry

West Virginia recognizes out-of-state training through equivalency review.

• Submit academy transcripts & certification.
• Pass WV law block.
• Firearms qualification.
• Pass certification exam.

Review is strict and depends on prior training content.

POST Contact Information

West Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards
701 Jefferson Rd., South Charleston, WV 25309
Phone: 304-558-8814
Website: https://www.wv.gov

Official POST Requirements:
https://www.wvsp.gov