STEP 1

Becoming an officer with the Knoxville Police Department starts by filling out an online job application and upload your:

• Resume
• Birth certificate
• High school diploma or GED
• DD-214 if a military veteran

DO I QUALIFY?

• Is 21 years old at the time of application.
• Has a high school diploma or GED.
• Applicant must be a U.S. Citizen or a Permanent Legal Resident of the U.S. and applies for or obtains U.S. Citizenship within six years of hiring.
• Has a valid driver’s license.
• Has no felony convictions.
• Is in compliance with our tattoo policy.
• Has been Honorably Discharged if they served in the military.
• Can pass a psychological and physical exam and background check.
• Above all, shows integrity and good moral character.

STEP 2

SIT FOR AN INTERVIEW

Eligible applicants will be notified to schedule a selection interview with the KPD. The department then meets to narrow down the list of applicants, who then continue through the last (and lengthiest) step of the hiring process.

STEP 3

Pass the Medical Exam and Background Investigation

Our process is a little more thorough than that of some departments. We wouldn’t have it any other way.

During the roughly 6 weeks that the Background Unit spends delving into the backgrounds of applicants who have made it to this stage, those applicants complete the remaining portions of the background investigation: a psychological evaluation, drug and alcohol testing, and polygraph test. They also undergo a medical exam. We’ll walk you through the steps and answer any questions.

Contact a recruiter at 865-215-7111 for more information about employment standards and causes for absolute rejection.

STEP 4

TAKE PHYSICAL EXAM

Next up is the physical performance test (PPT) and 1.5 mile run. You’ll receive an email that will inform you of your test date. Once you do, you’ll receive the necessary forms via email as well.

What to bring:

• Valid photo ID
• PPT Release of Liability Form
• Medical Release Forms

How do I prepare?

How to prepare for the PPT and 1.5-mile run:
Information about the Physical Performance Test (PPT) will be provided at a later date in the hiring process. The PPT is a fitness test that includes components such as push-ups, sit-ups, a 1.5-mile run and similar exercises that are timed. 

STEP 5

ENTER THE ACADEMY

If you get to this step – congrats. Here’s what comes next.

The KPD Academy’s Basic Recruit Training consists of 24 weeks of intensive instruction and testing. You’ll cover topics ranging including city, state, and constitutional law; firearms; police driving; arrest procedures and report writing; cultural competency training; and criminal investigation training.

ABOUT THE ACADEMY

The KPD Academy is a nonresidential academy located in Knoxville that operates during daytime hours, Monday through Friday. After completing Basic Recruit Training and certification as a Police Officer, you’ll complete a 16-week FTO (Field Training Officer) program before being given a work assignment.