Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MA Board of Public Safety
Police Officer Licensing in Massachusetts
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for police officer in Massachusetts, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Police Officer in Massachusetts
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 3
The Board of Certification of Health Officers works to maintain a high level of professionalism among the CHOs by monitoring and enforcing its regulations and policies, amending its regulations as necessary, and reviewing practitioners' records to ensure fulfillment of continuing education requirements.
Continuing education and program notes
- Certified Health Officers (CHOs) are generally the administrative officers of a health department or board of health
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Certification of Health Officers • Division of Professional Licensure
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$78,610 median (3% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#17 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet Massachusetts eligibility requirements for Police Officer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (The Board of Certification of Health Officers works to maintain a high level of professionalism among the CHOs by monitoring and enforcin...).
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 5. Submit the application to Board of Certification of Health Officers~Division of Professional Licensure and monitor board communications.
- 6. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Massachusetts
With a median salary of $78,610, Police Officers in Massachusetts earn 3% above the national median of $76,290. Massachusetts ranks #17 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,805Median annual salary
$78,610Hourly estimate
$37.793% above national median
Difference: +$2,320
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPolice Officer Salary Ranking
#17 of 50 statesfor Police Officer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $115,400 |
| #2 | Washington | $102,640 |
| #3 | Illinois | $101,530 |
| #4 | Alaska | $100,300 |
| #5 | Colorado | $96,100 |
Nearby States Comparison
Police Officer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $78,610 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| New Hampshire | $67,620 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Vermont | $63,690 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| New York | $93,050 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $82,820 | No educational requirements | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Rhode Island | $77,280 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 68 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| New Hampshire | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Vermont | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Rhode Island | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Board of Certification of Health Officers • Division of Professional Licensure
1000 Washington Street, Suite 710, Boston, MA, 02114
Phone: 6177273069
Related Careers in Massachusetts
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrections Officer | $78,830 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Firefighter | $73,110 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Security Guards | $44,950 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $135,250 | Degree required | 1-18 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Police Officer in Massachusetts?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Police Officer salary in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for Police Officers in Massachusetts is $78,610. Salaries range from $59,870 (10th percentile) to $106,300 (90th percentile).
How does the Police Officer salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
Police Officers in Massachusetts earn 3% above the national median of $76,290, with a state median of $78,610.
How many Police Officers work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employs approximately 17,000 Police Officers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Police Officer license to Massachusetts from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Police Officers in Massachusetts?
The licensing agency is Board of Certification of Health Officers / Division of Professional Licensure. Review agency details at http://www.mass.gov/ocabr/licensee/dpl-boards/ho/.
How often do you renew a Police Officer license in Massachusetts?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.