Lateral: Minimum Requirements and Disqualifiers
AT TIME OF Application, YOU MUST:
At least three years of continuous service exercising police powers at a city (municipal), county or state police agency responsible for 9-1-1 calls. The 3 years of service must be current, full-time, unbroken, and continuous with no more than a 2 year break in service before the Portland Police hire date.
NOTE: Military police, Federal Law Enforcement, Corrections and Parole/Probation DO NOT QUALIFY as a Lateral Police Officer
Lateral officers with a state certification recognized by Oregon do not have to attend the DPSST Basic Academy. However, lateral officers will attend a two-week Career Officer Development class and the 10-week Advanced Academy - both trainings are in Portland and operated by the bureau. Lateral officers go through a 12-month probation and training program (FTEP).
For the most up-to-date information on state certifications recognized by DPSST and to answer any other specific certification questions, please contact DPSST directly at www.oregon.gov/dpsst
Disqualifiers and Eliminating Factors for becoming a police officer in Oregon
The below list is not all-inclusive, it is meant as a guide. Please talk to our recruiter about any concerns.
You are not likely to be hired as a Portland Community Police Officer if:
Traffic record, police contacts, accident report, and credit report show a continuing or recent pattern of poor decision making.
Personal life shows a history of poor judgment or refusal to confront problems.
Personal/Professional life shows a lack of experience with people from racial backgrounds different from your own.
Recently or currently misrepresenting yourself or ignoring laws.
Provided controlled substances to others, or have been involved in long-term criminal activity.
Work history shows a pattern of unexcused absences, discipline, or discharge.
Life activities (work, volunteer, hobbies) show little or no interest in serving the public or others.
People who know you have doubts about your honesty or character.
Body art above collar, except for reasonable cosmetic purposes, will be evaluated on a case by case basis. Body art includes, but not limited to, branding, scarifications and tattoos.
Have used any marijuana products within the last year.
According to State & Federal Law - You cannot be a police officer in Oregon if:
You cannot obtain a valid driver's license in your state of residence.
You will not be a U.S. citizen within 18 months of being hired. NOTE: Citizenship application requires 5 years of residency.
You have been convicted of a Domestic Violence Assault.
You have been convicted of a felony.