APPLICATION PROCESS- Once you meet the standards, and apply for the next testing date, you begin the process. During the application process, candidates are required to pass a written, physical fitness test, medical and psychological checks, a polygraph, and pass a thorough background investigation.

LAW ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY - Entry Level Candidates then compete 720 hours of Washington State law enforcement training. After graduation from the Academy, recruits undergo an additional month of training with the Seattle Police Advanced Training section, to focus on the specific laws of the city and procedures used by SPD.

FIELD TRAINING - Following Academy Training and SPD specific training, student officers are assigned to three different Field Training Officers with whom they work for a total of four months. After successful completion of the FTO Program, new officers enter a six month probationary period, where they work on their own with periodic check ins by a Field Training Officer.

ASSIGNMENT - Once you leave the Field Training Process, you are assigned to one of five precincts to work patrol. While there are no guarantees about where you will be assigned and what hours you will work, you are able to give your top three choices and in most cases at least one of these preferences can be accommodated.