When to start the process?

[ronnieds]

Hello,

I had some questions regarding when would be the best time to start applying to some of the departments. I am currently finishing up my degree in Washington State, and I will be done in December. I am planning on moving down to the So Cal area once I graduate, and I was wondering when would be the best time to start getting the process going.

I don’t really want to wait until I move down there, because then I will be waiting for awhile while I go through all the testing without a job. I guess my question is, is it too early to start applying now? Too bad that there is another thread saying the LAPD is getting rid of their expedited testing; I was hoping to take advantage of that.

[VChopefull]

You will need a job when you move down here to test....The LEO job market is so Jacked up right now it could take you two years to get on somewhere...

I wouldn't apply yet...there is so many departments in a hiring freeze. Once the economy straightens out hopefully a lot of the applicants will have found employment elsewhere and the "real" applicants who have always wanted to be cops will be the only ones in background.

[avalon42]

What VCHope said...have a Plan B. I am nearly done with 50% of my POST BASIC training requirements and I am even unsure if there will be any open positions for me by the time I get out.

I am currently thinking of opportunities OUTSIDE California, like New Mexico.

[IronBruin]

I am done with school next week, I did my first test in July. The general consensus is that you should apply when you are six months from graduation/EAS, but that will be a problem for you if you are trying to apply in California.

[ronnieds]

So should I hold off with LAPD even though they are currently hiring, or should I try to move forward with their process?

[VChopefull]

It wouldn't hurt a bit to apply to LAPD, they are the only department still hiring at an average rate...

That being said, anyone who wants to be a cop in the State of CA is applying there because no one else is hiring so they are being VERY selective!

[SgtCHP]

If you can afford the trips, it would be best to start your application processes now and get your foot in the door. It will entail trips to SoCAL for various testing procedures.

Actually, what you should do is call a recruiter at the agency you wish to test with and ask their opinion. They would know best just how long each process will take and can probably offer you specific time frames to better assist you in the process.

Here is LAPD's question and answers phone number:

Have a question? (866)444-LAPD

[viewsonic]

IronBruin u have PM (from a fellow Bruin)

[Copp'rPenny]

IronBruin u have PM (from a fellow Bruin)

Another one of us on here???? We're taking over! :D

[avalon42]

If you're going to apply, use the shotgun effect. Given the economy, agencies will understand what you're doing and not take offense (subjective) to it.

Good luck to you in the process.

[nevets616]

Another one of us on here???? We're taking over! :D

i's be a bruin also! hahah

and start applying now! also try governmentjobs.com