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Just got in at 37! One of my best choices. More mature, has life experience to relate to some individuals, thick skin bc ppl will always be angry with you. Etc..
Well said! And you definitely stated, in a way, one of the golden rules of deescalation…not to let someone’s emotion determine your emotion. Easier to do with life experience. You stay well, and do great!
I’ll be 60 years old on the 31st of July and just started the process of becoming a Police Officer. Passed my agility obstacle test and written on the 25th of June. Looking forward to make the cut
@@k.c.3567 I tried but I received a letter saying something in my background caused them to discontinue with my application and I am not eligible to reapply. I’m looking for a way to find what is in my background that caused them to stop my application
41 here and one year in. While my life experiences helped me get hired, they have consistently been disregarded as irrelevant because they weren't earned as a cop. There seems to be an expectation to shut up and accept that I'm stupid and useless compared to those with seniority - not that I'm arrogant or treat anyone younger than me like they should listen to me.
@@lordchicken2879 My life experiences provide a perception and decision making ability that some of the lest worldly experienced can't replicate. Apply that experience and decision making along with the law and your agency policy, you can thrive.
Congratulations on your success I’m 42 and I’m having a tough time. I’ve applied at 3 smaller departments that don’t just hire laterally and I’ve never made it past the board interview. The last Chief I interviewed with called me up and recommended I pay my own way through the academy first. I’m hesitant to go this route as there is no guarantee of a job after graduation. Right now I’m looking into one of the big city departments but the hiring process is much longer. Could be a year before I even hear if my application was accepted. 🙄
You are great and this video is amazing and makes me feel so good. I am 51 and decided to join the Broward county police force. I have never done drugs, smoked cigarettes in my life and I also don’t do alcohol. I am in shape and training everyday to take the agility test. I was starting to get discouraged because of over thinking stuff due to my age. Thank you for your service and thank you for making this video.
I started in 1968 when I was 22 y/o, but as a Viet Nam combat veteran I had a lot more life experience than others my age who didn’t serve in the military.
You got this! I just turned 40 and if I could still work in LE, I know it wouldn’t be a problem on the physical side…as long as I stretched more consistently 😄
@The10CodeMindset lol. It took me longer because in 2017 I was 525lbs and havr since dropped all the weight and had to get into shape to do this physical test. That is my dedication.
You have helped me to be a better officer!!! I always recommend your Channel to my department!!! You are my inspiration and guide!!!! Thank you so much
Better officer how? Better at lying to get your way? Better at violating people’s rights? Better at what exactly?? Remember you are a Tax collector and nothing else. Also remember one day you will be no longer a cop and will be just like the rest of us having to deal with tyranny. Never forget it.
I am 33 and have my first ever interview to become a police officer, later today. Passed all the written tests with flying colours and was the only person out of 8 at my "POWER Test" session to even pass, against kids who were 10 years younger than me. Not only did i pass, but I did my 1.5 mile in 9:42 and was told by the facilitators that it was the fastest they had seen in probably 5+ years. I did a ride along with this department a few weeks ago and when talking to the officers that I rode with (4 hours with a traffic guy and 4 hours with a patrol guy), they both told me that they think as long as you manage to stay healthy and in shape, that an older age will HELP you more than it'll hurt you when it comes to getting hired. My sister works for an undisclosed sheriffs department in the southern US as an LEO instructor and panel interviewer and also told me that when given the choice between someone whose 22 and 32, if they are 100% torn between the two candidates, they will usually go with the older candidate. They said older people are usually much more humble/mature, they have more life experiences and will carry themselves with more confidence, will have an easier time relating to more people on the job (primarily older people on the road as well as the brass at the department), but they said the single biggest advantage is that older people will be seen as more reliable, regardless of whether its true or not. Again, I'm 33, have an 800+ credit score, I own my own home (and life alone) and have no parents around to bail me out if I fall behind on bills. I can't just call into work "sick" simply because I don't feel like going to work that day. I can't rely on anyone in my personal life but me. My sister told me it costs her department roughly $100k per new recruit they hire after setting them up with a car and gear and sending them to academy, training them (FTO) etc. Again, they will almost always side with the more reliable person when split down the middle.
Thanks for commenting about that. The easiest people I trained when I worked as a FTO, were the ones with life experience. Age definitely helps. I wish you the best! Keep learning 👍💪
@@The10CodeMindset Had my panel interview last night. I'm really not sure how I did - in fact we wont know until the end of this month or even beginning of feb, however I noticed something odd. They did two panels; a group of six and then a group of four (my group). I didn't ask the people in the group of 6 how old they were, but they were all SUPER young, I'd guess between the ages of 21-25? Then in my group, everyone was 30+ After the panel, they told us that there was no particular order in that they interviewed and that it was all alphabetical, which I suppose was believable as all four people in my group's last names began with the letter D, however its again, odd that they would have a group of six really young people followed by a group of four "old" guys when if it was truly alphabetical, why not just do two groups of five? They even had a set of six chairs for the first group and a set of four for us, and there was no RSVP or anything for this. We just got a letter saying to be at a set location at a specific date/time and that's it. The whole thing was very odd, including the fact that they told me our panel would start at 6pm promptly and we didn't get called into the room until about 7:15, and then the format was very odd, unlike ANY of the videos I watched on youtube regarding panel interviews.
Thank you very much for commenting about that solid quote. “For when you gaze long into the abyss. The abyss gazes also into you.” Friedrich W. Nietzsche
32 this year and have driven truck for the last 7-8 years and im wanting to get into law enforcement my biggest worry is the physical aspect but from what ive seen here i have plenty of time, thanks for the motivation
Nervousness just means you give a darn, which is a good thing 👍👍 One month, it will be here before you know it! I made an academy video, if you haven’t watched it yet hope it is useful for you. Take care! th-cam.com/video/GKVC8SmtVbo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=jJdyS3vS_-VmJkti
On the street to feel powerful? Lol sad. Remember you won’t alway be a cop. Soon when you’re out you will be like everyone else having to deal with tyranny.
Good stuff, Scott! Applied for a Police Dept. at 37. Hired and went through the academy at 38 and have been on the road for my first year at 39. (The dept. was specifically looking to add older officers’) My experience has been that being a little older has worked to my benefit in terms of maturity and especially valuable life experience vs. some of the 20-somethings. The only thing that I’m bummed about is not having as much time left to be a cop as they do 😂 Thanks for the content- it’s valuable and I appreciate all of your wisdom!
That is an advantage of getting into it a bit later, that life experience and typically more maturity. Just keep showing up bit by bit in fitness and there's the compounding effect. Eventually, it becomes a way of life.
@@The10CodeMindset 🔟 CodeMindset your channel rocks. You seem like a fair guy- keep posting because your positive energy is priceless and highly needed in today's climate.
I'm 27 and am starting a police job now and to be honest I'm glad I waited. My entire 20's I've been in the Army and still am on a reserves basis after 5 years active duty and at 20 I had a lot of self development to work on and it wasn't until year 2 or 3 into the Army that everything started to click for me. I was a 20 year old that would have failed as an officer but now I'm a 27 year old that won't.
@The10CodeMindset I definitely plan on big things in law enforcement. I got hired on with one of if not the most difficult county Sheriff's office in my state. Lots of hard work over here in WA.
I'm 34, went to community college for psychology, criminal justice and a few other courses but ended up switching to trade school for HVAC. Been a service advisor for a Ford dealer for the last 12 years and have a clean background... I help a lot of local municipalities with car repairs and have close connections with higher ups in a lot of local police departments.. I"m honestly thinking about talking to one of the powers that be at one of the local depts. to see if they would let me try out to become a cop. Do you think It could be worthwhile longterm to try and make the switch? Its something I've always wanted to do.
Thanks for commenting. Since you asked, I would start with a pros and cons list. I spoke to someone not too long ago who wanted to join in policing but he couldn’t afford the big pay cut. Pros Vs cons. Not saying that’s your situation but get pros, cons, intentions, and family scenarios listed on paper and then make a calculated decision. 34 isn’t too old by any means. Hopefully what I stated helps. I wish you all the best whether you enter LE or not.
I felt like 27 might be too old. I am so glad that so many get started so much later. Thanks to all for the encouragement. Not sure if I can do it but this leaves me feeling better.
Thanks for commenting. 27 is definitely not too old. Speaking as someone who worked on the job from ages 24-38. :) I'm glad you found the video helpful.
I was looking for this comment. Thinking late 20s is old is honestly R word (can't say it on TH-cam) I just get so tired of people in their 20's thinking that's old, like the average life span is 35 or something. I joined the army at 31 and now in my 40s I am considering being a police officer. If anything, the minimum age of 18 for the military and 21 for police is too young. I was stronger at 30 than I was at 21 and absolutely a hell of a lot wiser. From the people I have spoken to, late 20s is the average age in the academy, so 27 you won't even be in the older group of the class from what I have seen. (might differ from academy to academy, also luck plays a role) I think a lot of people do military, get out, wander between a few jobs for a bit and then settle on police. People who want to be a cop at 13 and start the process as an intern at 18 or whatever are the vast minority.
I’m 36 turning 37 in March I want to try to join the LAPD or any other PD but I think with misdemeanors on my record will effect me they are old from DUIs over 10 years ago.
@ thank you was 2 wetreckless like from 2008 and other was like in 2011 was young and dumb have an ex bro inlaw that’s a detective maybe can give me some pointers
I spent 11 years in HVAC and Monday starts my first day with a police department. Going to the Academy soon. The pay definitely hurts.. but at 31 I needed to make some changes and work closer to home. I want to make a difference at work.
I started the academy at age 51 I just retired last year at age 66. Assuming that you're physically healthy it's all in the mind. Everybody told me I would never make it through the academy. I told myself I would. But it's not all menthol, you must get yourself physically fit too. All this said I truly enjoyed being in the academy and was rather sad when the academy was over. To me it was just school. Physical agility and lots of pt yes. But I didn't psych myself out. I think this advice is good for anyone at any age. If you're thinking about it go for it would be my advice.
I joined at 29 and retired as a sergeant of a patrol squad at 56. I think if you are in good shape and in your 50's or early 60's it's absolutely doable. You need to be in superlative physical condition because bad guys are usually young and some of them are very strong. Most calls do not call for physical prowess but the ones that do...well you may not have an option but to deal with it yourself, so you HAVE to be able to do that. Aside from the rare, but ever present, need to get physical; you can absolutley function as a cop in the US.
I am 35 years of age and I filled out a sheriffs application for my local department here in my town in Florida. They called me today for an interview that I have Tuesday morning. The thing I’m worried about is just the test.
I left the profession at 38, not because of age, but for family. 😄 But let me say that at 38 I was still very fit for duty; and you will be too when the continuous effort is made. It might be tough taking advice from a 25 year old training officer but that’s the ego talking. It can be squashed. I wish you the best!
Great advice brother. I’m 37 and REALLY wanting to do this… I mean, I want it bad man. I just hope it’s realistic for me and I can actually get in to the Brotherhood. 👊
I was still in at 37. I regularly exercised and was in better shape than some of the younger officers, and I’m no natural athlete. Life experience helps too. I know, I’m repeating what I said in the vid. Whoops!! I wish you the best!
I became a cop at 35, it was great. I called it my midlife crisis, but I loved going to work again. Graveyard shifts are harder as you age. Certain jobs are for younger cops. For example, SWAT, fugitive felony task force, narcotics, etc. I retired at 50 and I am glad I did it but I am more glad that I survived with only a bad shoulder and to be pasted living with insomnia.
in the entire California state I think the maximum age to join is age 35 with an exception that your in the military you can get that age requirement waved for up to like 7 years don't quote me on that. I am in the process of entering at age 24 so pretty young as the minimum is like 21 by the time you enter academy for most departments. I think back in the day or even today some states you can be as young as 18 or so I am not sure tho
One thing you didn’t touch on that I was waiting to hear was the background aspect of it. If someone has “a few” class c traffic issues how will that generally affect the process. I know things fall off your record but police applications ask “Have you ever in your life” type questions. If you’re older, that might be a few pages. Esp if you like fast cars or maybe made a few mistakes along the line.
Thanks for commenting! Due to the background aspect being such an involved topic I left it out and just focused on navigating the career if joining after early 20’s…but you might find this video helpful, especially since Ken Roybal, host of The Police Applicant Podcast is on it: th-cam.com/video/FYzjYv9q8Xo/w-d-xo.html
I go to the Academy probably in June, no set date just yet. However, I was issued my uniform and will be sworn in, in a couple of weeks at my official start date. So pretty much i'll just have to ride around with someone whos certified until i go to academy@@The10CodeMindset
That’s interesting. I haven’t heard of that, but that’s one heck of an opportunity to learn, a ton! 👍 I know you didn’t ask but here is some more advice: th-cam.com/video/HyLGr3V5xwU/w-d-xo.htmlsi=AutaO-V8Nac68DV6
@The10CodeMindset you know it bro so far, I've improved my run to bare minimal passing, but it's to push further beyond, and im definitely going to check out the video
I will add, I did this. I loved the job, every day was a great day. Trouble is, the blue line is a blue wall, the senior cops try to push you off. Older cops don't trust you because you're new, younger cops don't know how to treat you because you're older but less experienced. Combine that with an agency that doesn't like outsiders, no matter how much administration wants them, and it's a recipe for being ignored, pushed out, and let go 2 days before your 1 year of probation ends. I miss it every goddamn day.
Started at 32. Can’t wait to retire, have about 5 years to go. Don’t know how anyone would wanna do this shit after 55. From the heavy gear to prolonged sitting, and the day to day stressors of the job, will literally kill you. Not to mention le today is so different then 20 years ago.
I always had an interest in criminal justice and becoming a police officer, but in my State of NJ, the age range is 21 but no older than 35; I just turned 40 this month. I don't even know if I would have passed Basic Training anyway because I've been in I.T. for years now and being in an office environment puts you out of shape quickly. And I'm making about $50k right now with two children.
Thanks for commenting. She will have to be on board. Not trying to pry, but if her concern is the risk of the job, then assure her you will train your butt off, and do it. If it’s the scheduling, that’s tough on a family, especially if a couple has kids and no help. Speaking from experience. I wish you the best!
@ yea it’s mostly the scheduling. We just had a daughter and don’t have much help. It’s always something that I’ve wanted to do though. I’m physically fit for the job. I Train every day and I’m a brown belt in bjj and to your point I think age helps. I was a hot head at 21 compared to 31 now a way different person.
I personally would not recommand any one older than 35 to apply, and had to be in top physical condition. I was 34 and there were lots of physcial demand on the job. We had to chase suspect and climb over 6 feet wall almost every day. May be some one could get by on smaller agency. Nowaday even my old dpet. had eliminate height and weight requirement, plus less physical traning. This didn't mean that there was less physical demand in streets.
Thanks for commenting! I was 33, still on K9 running tracks up and down hills, through the woods, and wherever else. While we can’t escape our mortality I challenge your advice to anyone older than 35. Yeah it’s physical but nothing consistent stretching and training can’t prepare a person for. I am very glad you brought up the point that just because physical standards lower, it doesn’t mean things get safer out there. 💯!!
I started at 30 and only did a year. The age and work ethic helped with confidence and put me ahead from younger peers. I was a pipe fitter for over 10 years and the environment is noticeable. I was use to working in a man dominated field that had unwritten codes of ethics. With the PD there was a lot of promotion chasers who would be so ready to rat up to superiors over things unrelated to work. I didn’t care to walk on eggshells for the rest of my life so I quit. Not for me.
So I have a good retirement and pension at my current company. I am 41. I was selected to join this march 2025. I'm a terrible test taker. I get nervous. In our academy, fail 2 and you are out. I'm afraid to lose both. Now, my passion is the police. Come on, send me your honest thoughts.
Same age 👍 I miss working in law enforcement every day. What is drawing you to the career? A friend of mine used to say he was terrible at taking tests, then he reframed to saying he had to work harder at passing them…and then passed high on his promotional exam 👍 Sorry for the tangent. Really curious your reason for showing interest in working as a police officer
@The10CodeMindset I have always helped people in whatever I can. As an officer, I can do more and go even further because it's my job. I know it's a tough career to take on, especially these days. So many people think negatively about cops. If I help someone and that person changes his/her perspective about police, then I did my job. If that person looks back and thanks the police, then she/he will have a good reason to looking forward to trust the police.
Right on! One interesting thing about police exams is don’t overthink the questions. Study ahead of time, flashcards help with statutes and elements of crime, and ask questions. I wish you the best!
@The10CodeMindset STILL have time to decide. But time is running out. I'm very afraid to lose my current job and all the benefits. I wish I had a Walmart job 🤣🤣... Like that I can go and fear nothing because there will be nothing to lose. I work for the State.i have a good gig for sure
There are a few issues for someone significantly older joining, and not just physical. Overall yes there is more maturity and more overall knowledge and experiences, but it's also on average harder to learn new things, you get set in your ways and it's harder to see things from a different point of view, same issue why the Military prefers recruiting young. More than that, if you're joining the police somewhere around 40 a lot of your colleagues and superiors will see your change as a form of Mid Life Crisis, and that's not an entirely unjustified view, you're asking them to trust you and potentially put their lives in your hands when they think you're there to basically scratch an itch and show you can still hang with the young crowd, you have to work twice as hard to prove you're serious.
I appreciate you brining up this perspective. To which I encourage those joining at a later age, put in the effort needed to learn and work well with others and for others when out responding.
The irony is you have to be in shape to be a police officer but if you look at some of these police officers they definitely don’t look like they’re in shape
I personally do not agree with the fact that many agencies don't set physical standards after the academy. It's up to the officers, and unfortunately many don't hold themselves to a fit standard either...but it can be done!
Clearly, we don't have a good system for training and selecting police officers, so to use age as a factor for ruling a candidate out is asinine. Maybe we should have a much higher minimum age to become a police officer. Maybe that might give us better officers.
Thank you for commenting. The only aspect of law enforcement (that I know of) which rules people out based on age is federal. I believe if you're older than 37 you cannot join. But at the local level, people in their 30's, 40's, and 50's are joining.
Thank you for commenting. If anyone is curious about a prospective department's pay, either visit their website or check out Indeed.com or ZipRecruiter I was stating the 30's-50's starting pay based on how there are more smaller agencies than bigger agencies. Now those metro PD's will definitely offer $50-70K, but I'd guess out of 18,000 police departments nationwide, the metro's don't even count for 10% of that. According to the BLS non-metro police officers, particularly in rural and small-town areas, typically earned less than those in larger cities. On average, these officers made between $52,000 and $55,000 annually. Starting salaries in these regions could be lower, often ranging from $35,000 to $40,000, depending on the local budget and cost of living. And what's shocking is that in the state of Mississippi, the average annual income of police officer is not even $45K. That's tough.
What rational person would even consider becoming a cop? After watching countless body cam videos, I know law enforcement is no longer considered an honorable and respectful profession. Nowadays, it would take a lunatic to ever dream of becoming a peace officer. In reality, there are several TH-cam channels dedicated to exposing ignorant cops who are ignorant of the rights citizens have in the United States. Many cops in this country don't even know the laws. I highly recommend taking a screenshot of this list of TH-cam channels and then doing a search for them here on TH-cam. Because then, you can become more knowledgeable about the tyranny that is taking place in this country. 1. Audit Archive 2. The Civil Rights Lawyer 3. Shields of Shame 4. US - Corrupt Cops 5. Dirty Cops 6. Brutal cops
Get this free e-book on how start off strong working as a police officer: bit.ly/3WjcaX0
**Mental Health Fight Of The Heroes In Blue: amzn.to/3NDQctm
**101 Health Tips For Police Officers: amzn.to/3NDQctm
Just got in at 37! One of my best choices. More mature, has life experience to relate to some individuals, thick skin bc ppl will always be angry with you. Etc..
Well said! And you definitely stated, in a way, one of the golden rules of deescalation…not to let someone’s emotion determine your emotion. Easier to do with life experience.
You stay well, and do great!
Thinking of doing this myself. Where did you join?
I’ll be 60 years old on the 31st of July and just started the process of becoming a Police Officer. Passed my agility obstacle test and written on the 25th of June. Looking forward to make the cut
60! Get after it 💪💪 I wish you the best!
GO FOR IT!!!
@@k.c.3567 I tried but I received a letter saying something in my background caused them to discontinue with my application and I am not eligible to reapply. I’m looking for a way to find what is in my background that caused them to stop my application
Respect to you sir! Age is just a number…good luck in your journey as a police officer!🫡✊🏾🤙🏾
Good luck man
Became a patrol deputy at 50. Age and wisdom does have advantages if you apply the lessons learned out of law enforcement.
🔥
Thanks for commenting about that! Stay well, and do great!
@@The10CodeMindset I'm 4 years in now, an FTO, one of the most productive in patrol. It is truly a calling.
41 here and one year in. While my life experiences helped me get hired, they have consistently been disregarded as irrelevant because they weren't earned as a cop. There seems to be an expectation to shut up and accept that I'm stupid and useless compared to those with seniority - not that I'm arrogant or treat anyone younger than me like they should listen to me.
@@lordchicken2879 My life experiences provide a perception and decision making ability that some of the lest worldly experienced can't replicate. Apply that experience and decision making along with the law and your agency policy, you can thrive.
Congratulations on your success I’m 42 and I’m having a tough time. I’ve applied at 3 smaller departments that don’t just hire laterally and I’ve never made it past the board interview. The last Chief I interviewed with called me up and recommended I pay my own way through the academy first. I’m hesitant to go this route as there is no guarantee of a job after graduation. Right now I’m looking into one of the big city departments but the hiring process is much longer. Could be a year before I even hear if my application was accepted. 🙄
You are great and this video is amazing and makes me feel so good. I am 51 and decided to join the Broward county police force. I have never done drugs, smoked cigarettes in my life and I also don’t do alcohol. I am in shape and training everyday to take the agility test. I was starting to get discouraged because of over thinking stuff due to my age. Thank you for your service and thank you for making this video.
I appreciate that and I wish you nothing but the best!
I started in 1968 when I was 22 y/o, but as a Viet Nam combat veteran I had a lot more life experience than others my age who didn’t serve in the military.
The military experience definitely helps.
My grandfather served in Vietnam as well in the Marine Corps! Served 22 years in fact… thank you for your service sir 🫡
Scott thank you I’m 39 and going for it should be in by 40 if things go great. I needed this video.
You got this! I just turned 40 and if I could still work in LE, I know it wouldn’t be a problem on the physical side…as long as I stretched more consistently 😄
@The10CodeMindset lol. It took me longer because in 2017 I was 525lbs and havr since dropped all the weight and had to get into shape to do this physical test. That is my dedication.
OH WOW!!! That's peak determination and discipline! Please keep me updated on the journey entering LE.
I started the Police Academy on my 40th birthday in January of this year. I graduated in May and started working in June.
@@JenniferPerez-mv7df Congratulations!! Keep learning and stay vigilant!
I'm 35 years old and I'm starting my career in law enforcement for the lapd. These tips are very helpful will apply them
I’m grateful you found the video useful! Take care of yourself and never stop learning (and asking questions lol)
@@The10CodeMindset thanks. Take care as well . And keep the good work 👏 👍
35 here as well, and I'm beginning training to be able to pass the fitness test when I go through academy.
You have helped me to be a better officer!!! I always recommend your Channel to my department!!!
You are my inspiration and guide!!!! Thank you so much
Oh wow! The pressure is on! I do appreciate the compliment and recommendation, very much.
Better officer how? Better at lying to get your way? Better at violating people’s rights? Better at what exactly?? Remember you are a Tax collector and nothing else. Also remember one day you will be no longer a cop and will be just like the rest of us having to deal with tyranny. Never forget it.
I’m 35 a former bus driver and mail carrier. I’m in the prerequisites now for the academy
Outstanding!
What was your reason for joining? To try and feel powerful? Lol and to violate people’s rights? “thin Blue line” just means us vs them
I am 33 and have my first ever interview to become a police officer, later today. Passed all the written tests with flying colours and was the only person out of 8 at my "POWER Test" session to even pass, against kids who were 10 years younger than me. Not only did i pass, but I did my 1.5 mile in 9:42 and was told by the facilitators that it was the fastest they had seen in probably 5+ years.
I did a ride along with this department a few weeks ago and when talking to the officers that I rode with (4 hours with a traffic guy and 4 hours with a patrol guy), they both told me that they think as long as you manage to stay healthy and in shape, that an older age will HELP you more than it'll hurt you when it comes to getting hired. My sister works for an undisclosed sheriffs department in the southern US as an LEO instructor and panel interviewer and also told me that when given the choice between someone whose 22 and 32, if they are 100% torn between the two candidates, they will usually go with the older candidate.
They said older people are usually much more humble/mature, they have more life experiences and will carry themselves with more confidence, will have an easier time relating to more people on the job (primarily older people on the road as well as the brass at the department), but they said the single biggest advantage is that older people will be seen as more reliable, regardless of whether its true or not. Again, I'm 33, have an 800+ credit score, I own my own home (and life alone) and have no parents around to bail me out if I fall behind on bills. I can't just call into work "sick" simply because I don't feel like going to work that day. I can't rely on anyone in my personal life but me.
My sister told me it costs her department roughly $100k per new recruit they hire after setting them up with a car and gear and sending them to academy, training them (FTO) etc. Again, they will almost always side with the more reliable person when split down the middle.
Thanks for commenting about that. The easiest people I trained when I worked as a FTO, were the ones with life experience. Age definitely helps. I wish you the best! Keep learning 👍💪
@@The10CodeMindset Had my panel interview last night. I'm really not sure how I did - in fact we wont know until the end of this month or even beginning of feb, however I noticed something odd.
They did two panels; a group of six and then a group of four (my group). I didn't ask the people in the group of 6 how old they were, but they were all SUPER young, I'd guess between the ages of 21-25? Then in my group, everyone was 30+
After the panel, they told us that there was no particular order in that they interviewed and that it was all alphabetical, which I suppose was believable as all four people in my group's last names began with the letter D, however its again, odd that they would have a group of six really young people followed by a group of four "old" guys when if it was truly alphabetical, why not just do two groups of five? They even had a set of six chairs for the first group and a set of four for us, and there was no RSVP or anything for this. We just got a letter saying to be at a set location at a specific date/time and that's it.
The whole thing was very odd, including the fact that they told me our panel would start at 6pm promptly and we didn't get called into the room until about 7:15, and then the format was very odd, unlike ANY of the videos I watched on youtube regarding panel interviews.
It's funny you mention Tony Robbins because you remind me of him.
How? Lol! People have told me that before!! Haha!
“When fighting monsters, see to it that you do not become one.” Valuable words that served me well during my 31 year career.
Thank you very much for commenting about that solid quote. “For when you gaze long into the abyss. The abyss gazes also into you.”
Friedrich W. Nietzsche
32 this year and have driven truck for the last 7-8 years and im wanting to get into law enforcement my biggest worry is the physical aspect but from what ive seen here i have plenty of time, thanks for the motivation
With consistency in time and effort towards exercising you can absolutely get this accomplished 💪
th-cam.com/video/iotFWhrkwa8/w-d-xo.html
Dang same as me. I currently do cdl driving for brinks as i get my self in shape for the academy. Ive been a trucker my entire adult life.
Maybe don’t be out of shape?
I’m 33 and going to the academy in a month. Im in the best shape of my life but still nervous as hell! Can’t wait to get through and onto the street.
Nervousness just means you give a darn, which is a good thing 👍👍
One month, it will be here before you know it!
I made an academy video, if you haven’t watched it yet hope it is useful for you. Take care! th-cam.com/video/GKVC8SmtVbo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=jJdyS3vS_-VmJkti
On the street to feel powerful? Lol sad. Remember you won’t alway be a cop. Soon when you’re out you will be like everyone else having to deal with tyranny.
Good stuff, Scott! Applied for a Police Dept. at 37. Hired and went through the academy at 38 and have been on the road for my first year at 39. (The dept. was specifically looking to add older officers’) My experience has been that being a little older has worked to my benefit in terms of maturity and especially valuable life experience vs. some of the 20-somethings. The only thing that I’m bummed about is not having as much time left to be a cop as they do 😂
Thanks for the content- it’s valuable and I appreciate all of your wisdom!
Thanks for commenting and offering that personal experience you have had! Stay well and do great! And I’m grateful you like the channel.
Thank you man! Such a useful information!
You bet!!! Take care!
Thank you for this.
Hey! I'm glad you noticed it! Sorry it took me a few weeks.
Great Video Content and Amazing Police Officer
Thank you. I’m a former officer now, and miss it a lot. But, I will continue to share what I learned during the career
I'm working to join at 33. I don't think the age is as big of a problem as me not staying in shape most of my life.
I definitely feel I wasn't mentally ready when I was younger.
That is an advantage of getting into it a bit later, that life experience and typically more maturity. Just keep showing up bit by bit in fitness and there's the compounding effect. Eventually, it becomes a way of life.
@@The10CodeMindset thanks for all the advice for those aspiring to join the force!
...im looking to join an LEA in my late 40s...
Me too and good luck to you
Wish you all the best! Take care!
@@The10CodeMindset 🔟 CodeMindset your channel rocks. You seem like a fair guy- keep posting because your positive energy is priceless and highly needed in today's climate.
I really appreciate it. That means a lot.
Amazing video thank you
Thanks! I’m glad you liked it!
@@The10CodeMindset loved it trying to get a little more in shape and apply to my local county police department they have openings for veterans
I'm 27 and am starting a police job now and to be honest I'm glad I waited. My entire 20's I've been in the Army and still am on a reserves basis after 5 years active duty and at 20 I had a lot of self development to work on and it wasn't until year 2 or 3 into the Army that everything started to click for me. I was a 20 year old that would have failed as an officer but now I'm a 27 year old that won't.
Outstanding! And 27 is still plenty young enough to get in the game 👍👏
@The10CodeMindset I definitely plan on big things in law enforcement. I got hired on with one of if not the most difficult county Sheriff's office in my state. Lots of hard work over here in WA.
34 here checking in passed my Oral and agility test, in the process of Background and Poly graph! Goodluck to everyone in this new adventure
👏👏👏
I'm 34, went to community college for psychology, criminal justice and a few other courses but ended up switching to trade school for HVAC. Been a service advisor for a Ford dealer for the last 12 years and have a clean background... I help a lot of local municipalities with car repairs and have close connections with higher ups in a lot of local police departments.. I"m honestly thinking about talking to one of the powers that be at one of the local depts. to see if they would let me try out to become a cop. Do you think It could be worthwhile longterm to try and make the switch? Its something I've always wanted to do.
Thanks for commenting. Since you asked, I would start with a pros and cons list. I spoke to someone not too long ago who wanted to join in policing but he couldn’t afford the big pay cut. Pros Vs cons. Not saying that’s your situation but get pros, cons, intentions, and family scenarios listed on paper and then make a calculated decision. 34 isn’t too old by any means. Hopefully what I stated helps. I wish you all the best whether you enter LE or not.
I felt like 27 might be too old. I am so glad that so many get started so much later. Thanks to all for the encouragement. Not sure if I can do it but this leaves me feeling better.
Thanks for commenting. 27 is definitely not too old. Speaking as someone who worked on the job from ages 24-38. :)
I'm glad you found the video helpful.
I was looking for this comment. Thinking late 20s is old is honestly R word (can't say it on TH-cam) I just get so tired of people in their 20's thinking that's old, like the average life span is 35 or something. I joined the army at 31 and now in my 40s I am considering being a police officer. If anything, the minimum age of 18 for the military and 21 for police is too young. I was stronger at 30 than I was at 21 and absolutely a hell of a lot wiser. From the people I have spoken to, late 20s is the average age in the academy, so 27 you won't even be in the older group of the class from what I have seen. (might differ from academy to academy, also luck plays a role) I think a lot of people do military, get out, wander between a few jobs for a bit and then settle on police. People who want to be a cop at 13 and start the process as an intern at 18 or whatever are the vast minority.
27? Should be no problem. I joined the FDNY @ 31.
33 and starting to prepare to apply. Thanks for the video and all the “older” guys in the comments giving me hope!
33! You’ve got this! 👍👍
I’m 36 turning 37 in March I want to try to join the LAPD or any other PD but I think with misdemeanors on my record will effect me they are old from DUIs over 10 years ago.
Still apply
@ thank you was 2 wetreckless like from 2008 and other was like in 2011 was young and dumb have an ex bro inlaw that’s a detective maybe can give me some pointers
I spent 11 years in HVAC and Monday starts my first day with a police department. Going to the Academy soon. The pay definitely hurts.. but at 31 I needed to make some changes and work closer to home. I want to make a difference at work.
I wish you all the best! With a servant’s heart, you can definitely make an impact when working in law enforcement. Take care!
I started the academy at age 51 I just retired last year at age 66. Assuming that you're physically healthy it's all in the mind. Everybody told me I would never make it through the academy. I told myself I would. But it's not all menthol, you must get yourself physically fit too. All this said I truly enjoyed being in the academy and was rather sad when the academy was over. To me it was just school. Physical agility and lots of pt yes. But I didn't psych myself out. I think this advice is good for anyone at any age. If you're thinking about it go for it would be my advice.
I really appreciate you sharing that, and providing the advice for others
I am 49 just started back on the treadmill and physical fitness and plan, then I will be back at it...
Get after it 💪💪
And thanks for commenting
I joined at 29 and retired as a sergeant of a patrol squad at 56. I think if you are in good shape and in your 50's or early 60's it's absolutely doable. You need to be in superlative physical condition because bad guys are usually young and some of them are very strong. Most calls do not call for physical prowess but the ones that do...well you may not have an option but to deal with it yourself, so you HAVE to be able to do that. Aside from the rare, but ever present, need to get physical; you can absolutley function as a cop in the US.
Your comment has been fact-checked as 💯 true. 😄
But seriously, thank you for commenting about that. Enjoy retirement chapter/opportunity.
I am 35 years of age and I filled out a sheriffs application for my local department here in my town in Florida. They called me today for an interview that I have Tuesday morning. The thing I’m worried about is just the test.
I wish you the best!
Rule of thumb for police tests, don’t overthink them.
Im 38 and considering starting the part-time academy this January while working full time. I'd be 39 at graduation.
I left the profession at 38, not because of age, but for family. 😄
But let me say that at 38 I was still very fit for duty; and you will be too when the continuous effort is made. It might be tough taking advice from a 25 year old training officer but that’s the ego talking. It can be squashed. I wish you the best!
Hey Scott great video. Would you mind sharing why you left?
Thanks! Glad you liked the video.
The career wasn’t working out for my family anymore. As hard as it was to leave, I realized I had to put them first.
Great advice brother. I’m 37 and REALLY wanting to do this… I mean, I want it bad man. I just hope it’s realistic for me and I can actually get in to the Brotherhood. 👊
I was still in at 37. I regularly exercised and was in better shape than some of the younger officers, and I’m no natural athlete. Life experience helps too. I know, I’m repeating what I said in the vid. Whoops!! I wish you the best!
George Foreman won back the heavy weight title at the age of 48
A beast!
But also good reasoning to put in the work and not settle for “I’m too old for this”…as I’ve heard people in their late 30’s say 😕
I became a cop at 35, it was great. I called it my midlife crisis, but I loved going to work again. Graveyard shifts are harder as you age. Certain jobs are for younger cops. For example, SWAT, fugitive felony task force, narcotics, etc. I retired at 50 and I am glad I did it but I am more glad that I survived with only a bad shoulder and to be pasted living with insomnia.
in the entire California state I think the maximum age to join is age 35 with an exception that your in the military you can get that age requirement waved for up to like 7 years don't quote me on that. I am in the process of entering at age 24 so pretty young as the minimum is like 21 by the time you enter academy for most departments. I think back in the day or even today some states you can be as young as 18 or so I am not sure tho
One thing you didn’t touch on that I was waiting to hear was the background aspect of it. If someone has “a few” class c traffic issues how will that generally affect the process. I know things fall off your record but police applications ask “Have you ever in your life” type questions. If you’re older, that might be a few pages. Esp if you like fast cars or maybe made a few mistakes along the line.
Thanks for commenting! Due to the background aspect being such an involved topic I left it out and just focused on navigating the career if joining after early 20’s…but you might find this video helpful, especially since Ken Roybal, host of The Police Applicant Podcast is on it:
th-cam.com/video/FYzjYv9q8Xo/w-d-xo.html
i'm 33 years old and just was hired onto my local dept.
Congratulations 👍👍 Attending the rookie school next, or have you already completed it?
I go to the Academy probably in June, no set date just yet. However, I was issued my uniform and will be sworn in, in a couple of weeks at my official start date. So pretty much i'll just have to ride around with someone whos certified until i go to academy@@The10CodeMindset
That’s interesting. I haven’t heard of that, but that’s one heck of an opportunity to learn, a ton! 👍 I know you didn’t ask but here is some more advice: th-cam.com/video/HyLGr3V5xwU/w-d-xo.htmlsi=AutaO-V8Nac68DV6
Im 32yrs old and im working for the Sheriff's as a CO next year hopefully ill be fit enough for the Police Academy
Get after it 💪💪
Here’s a video for you about the academy:
th-cam.com/video/U2w4qmAnjpo/w-d-xo.html
@The10CodeMindset you know it bro so far, I've improved my run to bare minimal passing, but it's to push further beyond, and im definitely going to check out the video
You got this! Keep showing up 👍
George Foreman age 45, Bernard Hopkins 46
Heck yeah!
I will add, I did this. I loved the job, every day was a great day. Trouble is, the blue line is a blue wall, the senior cops try to push you off. Older cops don't trust you because you're new, younger cops don't know how to treat you because you're older but less experienced. Combine that with an agency that doesn't like outsiders, no matter how much administration wants them, and it's a recipe for being ignored, pushed out, and let go 2 days before your 1 year of probation ends. I miss it every goddamn day.
Started at 32. Can’t wait to retire, have about 5 years to go. Don’t know how anyone would wanna do this shit after 55. From the heavy gear to prolonged sitting, and the day to day stressors of the job, will literally kill you. Not to mention le today is so different then 20 years ago.
I always had an interest in criminal justice and becoming a police officer, but in my State of NJ, the age range is 21 but no older than 35; I just turned 40 this month. I don't even know if I would have passed Basic Training anyway because I've been in I.T. for years now and being in an office environment puts you out of shape quickly. And I'm making about $50k right now with two children.
Thanks for commenting. Are you sure local law enforcement in NJ wont allow anyone after 35?
I’m 31 and thinking about getting into it , my wife is not on board lol
Thanks for commenting. She will have to be on board. Not trying to pry, but if her concern is the risk of the job, then assure her you will train your butt off, and do it. If it’s the scheduling, that’s tough on a family, especially if a couple has kids and no help. Speaking from experience. I wish you the best!
@ yea it’s mostly the scheduling. We just had a daughter and don’t have much help. It’s always something that I’ve wanted to do though. I’m physically fit for the job. I Train every day and I’m a brown belt in bjj and to your point I think age helps. I was a hot head at 21 compared to 31 now a way different person.
I started when I was 25. Worked a couple years and left due to some seriously bad politics. Now at 43, I’m considering going back (to another dept)
Cool! Well, not cool what happened several years ago due to politics BUT the fact you’re considering going back in after all these years. 👍👍
I personally would not recommand any one older than 35 to apply, and had to be in top physical condition. I was 34 and there were lots of physcial demand on the job. We had to chase suspect and climb over 6 feet wall almost every day.
May be some one could get by on smaller agency.
Nowaday even my old dpet. had eliminate height and weight requirement, plus less physical traning. This didn't mean that there was less physical demand in streets.
Thanks for commenting! I was 33, still on K9 running tracks up and down hills, through the woods, and wherever else. While we can’t escape our mortality I challenge your advice to anyone older than 35. Yeah it’s physical but nothing consistent stretching and training can’t prepare a person for.
I am very glad you brought up the point that just because physical standards lower, it doesn’t mean things get safer out there. 💯!!
I started at 30 and only did a year. The age and work ethic helped with confidence and put me ahead from younger peers. I was a pipe fitter for over 10 years and the environment is noticeable. I was use to working in a man dominated field that had unwritten codes of ethics. With the PD there was a lot of promotion chasers who would be so ready to rat up to superiors over things unrelated to work. I didn’t care to walk on eggshells for the rest of my life so I quit. Not for me.
It’s really upsetting how so many agencies are like that 😩
Bump that test up .
Where are entry level officers making in the 30s-50s?
The average is around $47K but at bigger departments (particularly in California) the pay can be higher.
So I have a good retirement and pension at my current company. I am 41. I was selected to join this march 2025. I'm a terrible test taker. I get nervous. In our academy, fail 2 and you are out. I'm afraid to lose both. Now, my passion is the police.
Come on, send me your honest thoughts.
Same age 👍 I miss working in law enforcement every day.
What is drawing you to the career? A friend of mine used to say he was terrible at taking tests, then he reframed to saying he had to work harder at passing them…and then passed high on his promotional exam 👍
Sorry for the tangent. Really curious your reason for showing interest in working as a police officer
@The10CodeMindset I have always helped people in whatever I can. As an officer, I can do more and go even further because it's my job. I know it's a tough career to take on, especially these days. So many people think negatively about cops. If I help someone and that person changes his/her perspective about police, then I did my job. If that person looks back and thanks the police, then she/he will have a good reason to looking forward to trust the police.
Right on! One interesting thing about police exams is don’t overthink the questions. Study ahead of time, flashcards help with statutes and elements of crime, and ask questions. I wish you the best!
@The10CodeMindset STILL have time to decide. But time is running out. I'm very afraid to lose my current job and all the benefits. I wish I had a Walmart job 🤣🤣... Like that I can go and fear nothing because there will be nothing to lose. I work for the State.i have a good gig for sure
There are a few issues for someone significantly older joining, and not just physical. Overall yes there is more maturity and more overall knowledge and experiences, but it's also on average harder to learn new things, you get set in your ways and it's harder to see things from a different point of view, same issue why the Military prefers recruiting young. More than that, if you're joining the police somewhere around 40 a lot of your colleagues and superiors will see your change as a form of Mid Life Crisis, and that's not an entirely unjustified view, you're asking them to trust you and potentially put their lives in your hands when they think you're there to basically scratch an itch and show you can still hang with the young crowd, you have to work twice as hard to prove you're serious.
I appreciate you brining up this perspective. To which I encourage those joining at a later age, put in the effort needed to learn and work well with others and for others when out responding.
39👮🏻♂️💪🏼
Heck yeah
Hi, I'm 5'5".Is there any height requirement to become a police officer?
In the state where I worked, 5'5", no problem. I worked with officers who were shorter than that. Go for it!
1st comments ❤
Thanks!
Here in Canada, they are looking for older canidates.
Interesting!
Abraham lived to be over 100 years…. Caleb was strong all his life. It’s in the Bible.The secret is in the Bible!!
Good thing God’s word isn’t secret! 😃
Thanks be to Him! ✝️
The irony is you have to be in shape to be a police officer but if you look at some of these police officers they definitely don’t look like they’re in shape
I personally do not agree with the fact that many agencies don't set physical standards after the academy. It's up to the officers, and unfortunately many don't hold themselves to a fit standard either...but it can be done!
Clearly, we don't have a good system for training and selecting police officers, so to use age as a factor for ruling a candidate out is asinine. Maybe we should have a much higher minimum age to become a police officer. Maybe that might give us better officers.
Thank you for commenting. The only aspect of law enforcement (that I know of) which rules people out based on age is federal. I believe if you're older than 37 you cannot join. But at the local level, people in their 30's, 40's, and 50's are joining.
Is 28 too late to join?
Not at all! 👍
Schutzstaffel
No way budy it is getting bad for fallen oficers ,by god.😮its getting dangerous and getting worse.
Most police departments pay 50-70K a year starting. Idk where you got the 30K from. More false narratives..
Thank you for commenting. If anyone is curious about a prospective department's pay, either visit their website or check out Indeed.com or ZipRecruiter
I was stating the 30's-50's starting pay based on how there are more smaller agencies than bigger agencies. Now those metro PD's will definitely offer $50-70K, but I'd guess out of 18,000 police departments nationwide, the metro's don't even count for 10% of that.
According to the BLS non-metro police officers, particularly in rural and small-town areas, typically earned less than those in larger cities. On average, these officers made between $52,000 and $55,000 annually. Starting salaries in these regions could be lower, often ranging from $35,000 to $40,000, depending on the local budget and cost of living.
And what's shocking is that in the state of Mississippi, the average annual income of police officer is not even $45K. That's tough.
What rational person would even consider becoming a cop? After watching countless body cam videos, I know law enforcement is no longer considered an honorable and respectful profession. Nowadays, it would take a lunatic to ever dream of becoming a peace officer. In reality, there are several TH-cam channels dedicated to exposing ignorant cops who are ignorant of the rights citizens have in the United States. Many cops in this country don't even know the laws. I highly recommend taking a screenshot of this list of TH-cam channels and then doing a search for them here on TH-cam. Because then, you can become more knowledgeable about the tyranny that is taking place in this country.
1. Audit Archive
2. The Civil Rights Lawyer
3. Shields of Shame
4. US - Corrupt Cops
5. Dirty Cops
6. Brutal cops
Same comment you left on another video. Who's paying you? 😂