FAQ

Have questions?

Here are some of the commonly asked questions about joining the San Francisco Police Department. If you still have questions, contact a recruiter by scrolling to the form at the bottom of the page. If you are ready to join, click the Apply Now button.

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  • Applicants must be at least 20 years old when they take the examination and at least 21 years of age by the time of appointment.
  • There is no maximum age limit.
  • Have not been convicted of a felony crime.
  • Have not been convicted of an offense involving domestic violence.
  • Have not been convicted of any misdemeanor, which carries a penalty of prohibiting ownership, possession or control of a firearm.
  • Be a U.S. citizen.
  • Have a U.S. High School Diploma, have passed a G.E.D. or the
  • California High School Proficiency Examination, or have an AA or higher degree from an accredited college or university.
  • Have a valid driver's license to operate an automobile.
  • Have not been restricted from employment with the City and County of San Francisco.

Entry Level Police Officer’s Salary
$103,116 - $147,628*/year

  • Paid vacation, leave and sick time
  • Excellent Medical Benefits
  • Bilingual Pay
  • Special Assignment Pay
  • Uniform Allowance
  • Tuition Reimbursement

  • Pension - 3% of final compensation per year of service at age 58, with a maximum of 90% benefit based on years of service.
  • Optional 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan (SFDCP) to compliment your pension benefits
  • Purchasable Service Credit
  • Limited Employment during Retirement - Retired members may return to City employment without affecting retirement status, not to exceed 960 hours in any fiscal year
  • For more info: https://mysfers.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Plan-Provisions-Police-605-2023.pdf

It takes about 6 months from Application to the Academy.

Learn more about how our High Touch Approach can help you get prepared for the tests.