Police Eligibility Requirements

A police officer is responsible for ensuring civilians obey the law. Police officers also provide emergency services such as responding to calls. A police officer’s main duties include patrolling assigned areas to ensure civilians are adhering to the law, investigating crimes or accidents, and arresting criminal suspects. 

Police Entry-Level Exam: Dec. 18, 2023
View complete exam details here. |  APPLY ONLINE HERE


Minimum Qualifications

Qualifications to become a City of Cleburne police officer is as follows. This information is as prescribed by Chapter 143 Local Government Code.

  • Must be a citizen of the United States and be able to read, write, and fluently speak English.
  • Have a valid Texas or out-of-state driver’s license that is not in jeopardy of suspension or revocation at the date of hire.
  • Be a graduate of an accredited high school or have an equivalency certificate.
  •  An associate's degree or 60 semester hours from an accredited college or university.
  • An honorable discharge from the armed forces of the United States after at least 24 months of active service.
  • Preferably possess certification as a Peace Officer as issued by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement at the time of exam or must meet all legal requirements necessary to become a licensed Peace Officer by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE).

In lieu of the above listed college education or military experience, applicants who are at least 21 years of age must be a graduate of an accredited high school or have an equivalency certificate and  have one  of the following: 

  • A current Texas peace officer license 
  • Current enrollment in a bachelor's or associate's degree program at an accredited college or university.
  • Current enrollment in a Texas basic peace officer course.
  • At least 24 months of full-time employment

Applicants shall be required to furnish official transcripts or other competent evidence of completion of the aforementioned academic requirements to the police department's background investigator.
 
Applicants shall be required to furnish official transcripts or other competent evidence of completion of the aforementioned academic requirements.

  • All military or law enforcement experience substituted for a degree must be verifiable.
  • Applicants convicted of a felony under State, Federal, or military law will not be considered for employment. Applicants will not be considered for employment while charges are pending for any offense.
  • Must pass the written Civil Service exam with a minimum score of 70 percent
    Must pass the physical ability test
  • Candidates who pass the written exam and physical ability test will be subject to successful completion of the following: driver analysis; background investigation including submitting fingerprints for a criminal record check; typing test with a minimum of 30 wpm; medical examination, including drug testing; psychological evaluation; polygraph test; oral review board; and any other relevant investigations deemed necessary.

City of Cleburne Benefits

  • Annual Salary: $64,039.35 (For year 1; step pay and lateral transfers are available. Get details.)
  • Certification Pay: Education, Texas Peace Officer Certification, FTO Certification, Bilingual Pay, and Longevity.  
  • Insurance: Medical, Dental, Life, AD&D, Critical Illness, HSA, FSA, Additional 457 Options 
  • Retirement: Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) 7% Contribution with a 2:1 Match
  • Holidays: 12 Paid Holidays
  • Leave Accruals: 120 Sick Leave Per Year / 120 Vacation Accrual Per Year
  • Additional Benefits: Tuition Reimbursement / Lateral Officer Program / Employee Referral Program / City Sponsored Wellness Program