STEP 1

ONLINE APPLICATION

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

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

DO I QUALIFY?

• Is 21 years old by the start of the Police Academy.
• Has a high school diploma or GED.
• Applicant must be a U.S. Citizen or a Permanent Legal Resident of the U.S. who is an Honorable Discharged Veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces 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

TAKE WRITTEN AND PHYSICAL EXAMS

Next up is the written exam, physical performance test (PPT), and 1.5 mile run. You’ll receive an email within about a week of applying (if you haven’t received it, check your spam folder) 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
• Personal History Questionnaire

How do I prepare?

How to prepare for the written test:
The written test covers the following subjects: Arithmetic, Reading, Grammar, Writing, and Public Safety Practical Skills. This study guide can help you to prepare. 

How to prepare for the PPT and 1.5-mile run:
The PPT is designed to test your ability to complete tasks that police officers will have to undertake—you’ll run up and down stairs; jump on, off, and over obstacles; and dodge obstacles, among other tasks. Dress in comfortable clothes (ie, workout clothing) and sneakers and remove all watches and loose jewelry. Read our detailed Preparation Guide for specifics on the test and how to prepare.

The 1.5-mile run must be completed in 16:30.

STEP 3

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 4

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 Internal Affairs 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.

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.