The Application Process

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5 Step 6

STEP 1

Physical Agility/Ability Test

The Physical Agility/Ability Test is the first component of the entry-level examination for the position of Police Officer. The job of a Police Officer requires a certain degree of physical strength and endurance, which are necessary to complete many of the tasks required on the job. The Physical Agility Test is geared towards assessing the physical abilities of the Police Officer applicant. The Physical Agility/Ability Test is a demanding component of the testing process, therefore it is strongly suggested that you train to develop your strength and endurance in order to pass this section of the entry-level examination.

The physical fitness test includes a 1.5-mile run in 15:28 minutes, 25 sit-ups in one minute, and 22 push-ups in one minute. Applicants unable to meet these minimum requirements may retake the test on the next available testing date. Note: These minimum requirements are the same for all ages and genders.

The physical ability test measures an applicant's ability to perform job-related exercises in the form of an obstacle course. Applicants will start by pushing an occupied police car 15 feet; the applicant will then complete the course by following simulated tasks: wooden fence climb/ chain-link fence climb, window climb, run/walk a 15 foot balance beam, and move a 165-pound mannequin 15 feet. The obstacle course must be completed in 90 seconds. Applicants who do not pass or complete the test may retake the test on the next available testing date. (See diagram)

The physical training test is given every Tuesday (except holidays) and one Saturday each month at the Police Training Academy at 1251 Virginia Street. There is no pre-registration to take the test. You just show up on the date and time that works best for you with your driver's license. See list of the dates and times that the test will be given. If you have any questions, you can call 251-208-2720.

STEP 2

Apply with the Mobile County Personnel Board

Once you successfully complete the Physical Agility/Ability test, you will be given a Verification of Successful Completion form. You will need this form in order to apply through the Mobile County Personnel Board for the position of Police Officer. You can apply online at www.personnelboard.org. Once you are on the website, click on "Create Account". Once you have created an account, you can then click on the "Job Opportunities" tab and click on Police Officer. You will see a detailed job description and a tab to "Apply". Before submitting your online application, you MUST attach a copy of your driver's license along with the Verification of Successful Completion form. Failure to do so will cause your application to be denied. If you have a college degree you will also need to attach your unofficial transcript with your application in order to receive credit for your college degree. If you are unable to apply online, you can apply in person at the Mobile County Personnel Board located at 1809 Government Street, Mobile, Alabama 36606. If you have any questions pertaining to this process you can contact someone at 251-470-7727 for assistance.

STEP 3

Complete the Mobile Police Department Application and Background Information Packet

When you successfully complete the Physical Agility/Ability Test, you will be given an application for the Mobile Police Department and a Background Information packet. The application and background packet must be turned in along with ALL of the requested documents within two weeks of receiving them in order for your application to be processed in a timely manner. Your application will be rejected if the required documents are not submitted or if your application is not complete.

  • Fill out the Mobile Police Department Application and Background packet and return to the Internal Affairs Section, 850 St. Anthony Street, Mobile, Alabama.
  • Documents you will need to provide:
    • Birth Certificate
    • Driver's License
    • High School Diploma or GED Certificate (or proof it has been requested)
    • College Diploma or transcripts ; if applicable (or proof it has been requested)
    • DD-214 if you have served in the military
    • Social Security Card (or proof it has been requested)
  • If you have received ANY traffic tickets ANYWHERE in the last 3 years, you must contact the court to obtain a Case Action Summary showing the disposition of the ticket and provide the document to Internal Affairs when submitting your application.
  • If you have ever been arrested ANYWHERE at ANY age, then you must contact the court to obtain a Case Action Summary showing the disposition of the charges and provide the document to Internal Affairs when submitting your application.

STEP 4 - Basic Abilities Test

Bishop State Community College

  • If you do not have an Associate's degree or higher from an ACCREDITED College or University, then you will be required to take the Basic Aptitude Test (BAT). The BAT (also known as Work Keys) is administered by Bishop State Community College, 351 North Broad Street, Mobile, Alabama.
  • Complete and submit the Work Keys Exam APOSTC BAT Registration Form to Bishop State (there is a $45.00 fee for this test).
  • Work Keys Testing will be offered every 2nd and 4th Thursday from 1:30 - 4:30 PM unless it is a holiday.
  • Once you submit your registration form, a member of the Workforce Division of Bishop State will notify you via email. The email will contain login credentials to an online program called Key Train to assist you in preparing for the Work Keys exam and any other additional information you will need to know the day of your exam.
  • If you have any questions regarding the BAT/Work Keys Test, please feel free to call Mrs. Gale Runderson of Bishop State at 251-405-7158.
  • Your Test scores will automatically be submitted to the Internal Affairs Unit and the Training Unit.

STEP 5

Background Investigation

  • Polygraph - Applicants will be questioned about any prior criminal activity, their prior work history, and any drug usage.
  • Interview - Applicants will be interviewed by a panel of police supervisors. The interview will include a set of standard questions asked to all applicants, as well as questions based on the applicant's unique background and the findings of the background investigators.
  • Fingerprint - Applicants will be fingerprinted and have their photo taken.
  • Psychological Test - Applicants will complete psychological testing and an interview with a psychologist.
  • Physical/Drug Screen - Applicants will complete a physical and a drug/alcohol screen.

STEP 6

Approval of Chief

  • Appointment - Once you have completed the hiring process and received an approval from the Chief of Police, you will be given an appointment date to start your career with the Mobile Police Department.
  • APOST Application - Once you receive your appointment date, you will be required to complete an APOST application prior to starting the Police Academy.