Quick Facts
Population1: 7,405,743
Number of Law Enforcement Agencies2: 260
Officers per 100,000 Population2: 174
Average Annual Salary (Patrol)3: $78,600
1U.S. Census Bureau, 2017
2Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2008
3Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2017
The information and links below are specific to this state and may be helpful in your employment search.
Basic Selection Standards
According to the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission, this state requires that sworn law enforcement officers meet the minimum selection standards listed below. (NOTE: Individual agencies may have more stringent requirements.)
U.S. Citizen:
Yes
Minimum Age Range:
21
Minimum Education:
High School/GED
Disqualifying Convictions (felony, misdemeanor, and/or other):
Felony
Pre-employment Screening
Candidates for sworn law enforcement positions in this state are subject to the pre-employment screening practices listed below. (NOTE: Individual agencies may employ additional procedures.)
Background Investigation:
Yes
Minimum Physical Standards:
Yes
Psychological Exam:
Yes
Find Law Enforcement Agency Contact Information
Search our agency directory for a listing of state and local law enforcement agencies in this state. Results will display agency name, contact information, and basic facts about the department, including agency size and population served.
Related Links
The entities listed and linked below will connect you to state-specific law enforcement resources that may be helpful in your employment search.
- State associations of chiefs of police and sheriffs are membership-based organizations that promote professionalism, training, and networking for law enforcement administrators. Their Web sites will often post job openings for agencies throughout the state and links to member agencies.
Washington Association of Sheriff’s and Police Chiefs
- State police and highway patrol provide statewide law enforcement services and enforce state and federal traffic laws. Their Web sites will connect you to available job opportunities within the agency and offer insight into the agency’s approach to statewide public safety services.
- State Commissions on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POSTs) or similar entities establish minimum selection, education, and training standards for law enforcement officers, and serve as the certification or licensing authority for sworn personnel. In some cases the POST conducts training for all sworn personnel in the state. These agencies may be helpful in getting an idea of this state’s approach to law enforcement training.