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Public Safety

Police Officer

A comprehensive guide to Police Officer licensing requirements across all 50 states. Compare median salaries, educational prerequisites, and processing timelines to plan your next career move effectively.

Median Salary

$73,241 / yr

Min. Education

Varies by state board

Job Outlook

Below national median; evaluate local demand

Top Paying State

California

Coverage: 50 states

StateMedian SalaryLicense TypeEducation RequiredEst. TimelineAction
CA
CaliforniaCompact: No
$115,400High CoL Adjusted
Register with licensing agencyVaries by state boardVaries by boardDetails
WA
WashingtonCompact: Yes
$102,640High CoL Adjusted
Stand-alone licenseVaries by state boardVaries by boardDetails
IL
IllinoisCompact: Yes
$101,530High CoL Adjusted
Stand-alone licenseSpecific course requiredVaries by boardDetails
AK
AlaskaCompact: Pending
$100,300High CoL Adjusted
State LicenseVaries by state boardVaries by boardDetails
CO
ColoradoCompact: Yes
$96,100Avg. Growth
Stand-alone licenseSpecific course requiredVaries by boardDetails
NY
New YorkCompact: No
$93,050Avg. Growth
Register with licensing agencySpecific course requiredVaries by boardDetails
Showing 1-6 of 50 states