Public Safety

How to become a Deputy Sheriff

From no experience: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.

Time to get there

6–12 months

Typical pay

$52k–$78k

Starting from

No experience

Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from no experience and includes any licence or programme legally required, not just course length.

The route

1. 1

   1–2 months

   Meet the basic requirements

   21+, clean record, valid licence, and a physical fitness standard.

   Course that covers thisIntroduction to Criminal JusticeUdemy · around $99.99 →
2. 2

   3–6 months

   Pass the hiring process

   Written exam, physical test, background investigation, polygraph and psychological evaluation.

3. 3

   4–8 months

   Complete the academy

   Paid, residential in many states, and physically demanding.

   ◆ State peace officer certification

4. 4

   1–2 years

   Start in the jail, then patrol

   Most sheriff's offices assign new deputies to corrections first. Expect a year or two inside.

5. ✓

   Destination

   Deputy Sheriff

   Browse jobs now →

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