Lateral: Minimum Requirements and Disqualifiers

AT TIME OF Application, YOU MUST:

At least three years of continuous service exercising police powers at a city (municipal), county or state police agency responsible for 9-1-1 calls. The 3 years of service must be current, full-time, unbroken, and continuous with no more than a 2 year break in service before the Portland Police hire date.

NOTE: Military police, Federal Law Enforcement, Corrections and Parole/Probation DO NOT QUALIFY as a Lateral Police Officer

Lateral officers with a state certification recognized by Oregon do not have to attend the DPSST Basic Academy. However, lateral officers will attend a two-week Career Officer Development class and the 10-week Advanced Academy - both trainings are in Portland and operated by the bureau. Lateral officers go through a 12-month probation and training program (FTEP).

For the most up-to-date information on state certifications recognized by DPSST and to answer any other specific certification questions, please contact DPSST directly at www.oregon.gov/dpsst

 

 

Disqualifiers and Eliminating Factors for becoming a police officer in Oregon

 

The below list is not all-inclusive, it is meant as a guide. Please talk to our recruiter about any concerns.

 

You are not likely to be hired as a Portland Community Police Officer if:

  • Traffic record, police contacts, accident report, and credit report show a continuing or recent pattern of poor decision making.

  • Personal life shows a history of poor judgment or refusal to confront problems.

  • Personal/Professional life shows a lack of experience with people from racial backgrounds different from your own.

  • Recently or currently misrepresenting yourself or ignoring laws.

  • Provided controlled substances to others, or have been involved in long-term criminal activity.

  • Work history shows a pattern of unexcused absences, discipline, or discharge.

  • Life activities (work, volunteer, hobbies) show little or no interest in serving the public or others.

  • People who know you have doubts about your honesty or character.

  • Body art above collar, except for reasonable cosmetic purposes, will be evaluated on a case by case basis. Body art includes, but not limited to, branding, scarifications and tattoos.

  • Have used any marijuana products within the last year.

 

According to State & Federal Law - You cannot be a police officer in Oregon if:

  • You cannot obtain a valid driver's license in your state of residence.

  • You will not be a U.S. citizen within 18 months of being hired. NOTE: Citizenship application requires 5 years of residency.

  • You have been convicted of a Domestic Violence Assault.

  • You have been convicted of a felony.

 

Lateral: Hiring Process