Take the first step in becoming an Alexandria Police Officer!
At the Alexandria Police Department, you’re more than a badge — you’re part of a family that serves and protects our community with pride. We’re looking for motivated individuals ready to step up, make a difference, and find their place in a career that matters.
Whether you’re just starting out or seeking a new path, there’s a place for you with APD.
You Belong Here.
It's simple. No appointment needed. No entrance exam.
Start with the Police Officer Entry Assessment, in-person at a Walk-In-Wednesday (9 a.m.-2 p.m.), an evening assessment (6 p.m.), or a Saturday assessment (10 a.m.) (see our calendar for specific dates) :
- Answer 20 questions regarding your background
- Complete a written prompt
- Introductory interview
- Tour APD headquarters
Eligibility Requirements:
- U.S. Citizen
- At least 1-year experience involving public contact
- Possession of a high school diploma or GED
- No serious misdemeanors or any felonies since age 18
- At least 21 years old at the time of graduation from the Police Academy
- Valid Driver's license
Bring with you the following to meet eligibility requirements:
Be prepared to provide the following original documents listed below when you come in for the Police Officer Entry Assessment and to proceed with the hiring process. Come with a copy of each document for us to keep upon verification. We will not keep your original documents but will need to check them for accuracy.
- Valid driver’s license - (must be the state in which you presently reside)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate or U.S. passport)
- Social Security card
Important Note:
- Dress to impress. Business attire is recommended for the walk-in assessment portion of the process.
- Successful applicants will receive an email the following day with instructions to complete the background packet through our online portal. Applicants without access to a computer should notify Officer Coddington to receive a physical copy of the packet.
We're Hiring!
Make a difference HERE
- $63,988.34 Starting Pay
- Annual pay increases
- Great Health Benefits
- Career Advancement
- Tuition Assistance
Salary
The starting salary for the Police Officer I position is $63,988.34
The top pay is $114,552.36 for officers.
Virginia DCJS certified Officers, or those with 3+ years of law enforcement experience out-of-state, are eligible to start at a higher salary. Please contact our recruiter for more information.
Benefits
- Medical: Your choice of provided Insurance carriers and options for in-service or out-of-service coverage. New employees pay 10% of the City's cost for medical insurance on a pre-tax basis.
- Dental: Basic dental coverage included in the health insurance programs. Additional coverage available through an optional program.
- Life Insurance: Term life insurance available. The city provides basic coverage which is equal to two times the employee's annual salary. Employees have the option to increase the coverage up to four times their annual salary for a minimal cost per pay period.
- Retirement: Defined contribution plan with full vesting in ten years. For sworn officers, the City contributes 27.30% of salary; employees will pay a contribution of 8% of pay.
- Paid Holidays: Thirteen paid holidays per year.
- Vacation Leave: New employees earn 12 days per year with annual increases to a maximum of 24 days per year after 12 years.
- Deferred Compensation: Employees may contribute a percentage of their salary on a pre-tax basis.
- Education and Training: Completion of training at the Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy qualifies for 24 credit hours at Northern Virginia Community College.
Message from the Chief
Welcome to the Alexandria Police Department's recruitment page. Our goal is to provide you with all the information you might need to guide your decision to join our department, to include our hiring process, career advancement opportunities, and recruiter contact information.
The Alexandria Police Department has a storied 150-year history as one of the oldest police departments in Virginia. Located less than five miles south of Washington, D.C., Alexandria has more than 150,000 residents that call it home.
We are a modern, highly trained, technically skilled, energetic, diverse, and well-equipped police department, with a current authorized strength of more than 300 officers, 104 full-time civilian employees, and 28 part-time civilian employees. Our size agency allows you the opportunity to work in Patrol, Criminal Investigations, K-9, Special Operations, Motors, and much more.
We are committed to 21st Century Policing and community engagement. We work hand-in-hand with Alexandria's residents to create a workforce that reflects our diverse City. If you have a desire to make a difference in your community, we hope you'll join our team.
The Alexandria Police Department: big enough to grow you professionally, small enough to know you personally.
Tarrick McGuire, Chief of Police