State of Arizona Peace Officer Training Academies

Basic Information

What should I wear for my first day?

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You should check with your individual academy. Generally, for men this consists of a button down shirt, necktie, dress pants, and dress shoes or cross trainers. For women, a blouse, dress slacks, flat dress shoes or cross-trainers are required. Recruit officers will begin wearing agency uniforms at the discretion of the class supervisor.

I have heard that the police academy is like military boot camp, is that true?

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Yes, the police academy is generally referred to as "paramilitary" or "military like".

What types of things do I learn in the police academy?

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For full authority police officers in Arizona (most common), academies must provide a minimum of 585 hours of instruction as defined by the AZ POST Basic Training Curriculum. In most cases the typical recruit will receive additional hours beyond the minimum required. You can download the AZ POST 585 Curriculum

Is there physical fitness training provided?

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Yes, physical fitness training is provided, and is rigorous. Recruits are encouraged to engage in regular physical fitness training in the weeks and months leading up to their arrival at the academy.

Is physical fitness training also required at the community college academies?

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Yes! Community college academies, although they only meet several times a week have the same physical fitness regiments that a full time academy does.

When do I need to have my firearm?

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Do not bring your firearm to your first day of class unless specifically instructed to do so. Your instructors will inform you when to start bringing your firearm.

Is there a final exam? What is it like?

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There is a final examination called the "Comprehensive Final Exam" or "C.F.E.". The final exam is administered by an agent of AZ POST. The test consists of 426 questions and is timed. Recruits are given 5.5 hours to complete the exam. The C.F.E. is divided into 3 blocks that are scored separately. A recruit must achieve a score of 70.0% on each block to pass.

If I fail a block on the CFE can I try again?

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Yes, the manner in which you may retake a block of the CFE is defined in POST Rule R13-4-110. You are allowed to retake any section 2 times. If you cannot pass after 2 attempts you must repeat the academy.