LATERAL ENTRY

LATERAL ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You must meet ALL of the requirements listed under the REQUIREMENTS tab. In addition, you must meet one of the below requirements to qualify:

In-state applicants MUST have been employed full-time for at least three years in the past 4 years as a peace officer licensed by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement.

Out of state applicants MUST have been employed full-time for at least three years in the past 4 years as a peace officer licensed by acceptable licensing entity in another state that has law enforcement officer licensing requirements substantially equivalent to those set forth by the State of Texas. Additionally, applicants MUST challenge TCOLE. Visit https://www.tcole.texas.gov/content/out-state-peace-officers for more information.

All applicants must obtain a peace officer license issued by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement prior to the start of the academy.

ACADEMY

Applicants will attend a modified academy class consisting of 9-10 weeks

Applicants are on probationary period for one year from Academy start date

LATERAL PAY

While in the Academy, cadets receive $1,615.38 bi-weekly.

Upon graduating the Academy, lateral police officer’s salary (while on probation) can range from $2257.58 up to $2636.30 bi-weekly. Dependent upon prior law enforcement service.

Educational Pay Incentive begins upon graduation from the Academy:

Bachelor’s Degree - $140 bi-weekly

Master’s Degree - $240 bi-weekly

Doctorate Degree - $340 bi-weekly

Click on the BENEFITS tab above for additional Incentive Pay