Maryland POST Requirements
Fast Facts
- Minimum age: At least 21 years of age for many police agencies; some allow 18 under certain conditions.
- Education: High school diploma or GED; college credits or degree often preferred.
- Academy hours (minimum): 689
- Reciprocity: Maryland allows officers certified in other states or federal jurisdictions to apply for certification if they meet equivalent training, testing and licensing standards.
Minimum Requirements
- Age: At least 21 years of age for many police agencies; some allow 18 under certain conditions.
- Education: High school diploma or GED; college credits or degree often preferred.
- Citizenship: U.S. citizen.
- Driver license: Valid Maryland driver’s license required by employment.
- Criminal history: No felony convictions; must meet Maryland Police Training & Standards Commission good character criteria.
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Other requirements:
- Pass background investigation and fingerprint check.
- Pass medical examination and psychological evaluation.
- Pass drug screening.
- Must complete Maryland Terrorism & Rapid Response basic training (MPTC-certified).
Physical Fitness Standards
Maryland requires law enforcement recruits to pass a physical ability test (PAT) before admission to the basic training academy and maintain physical readiness throughout service.
- Timed 1.5-mile run.
- Push-ups in one minute.
- Sit-ups in one minute.
- Agility/obstacle course tasks.
Each Maryland basic training academy publishes the specific PAT standards; recruits must complete the physical exam and PAT before being accepted.
Academy Training Requirements
Minimum academy hours: 689
Maryland’s basic police training requires approximately 689 hours (varies by class) of instruction and is delivered through the Maryland Police & Correctional Training Commissions (MPTC).
Reference: Maryland Police & Correctional Training Commissions – Basic Training Curriculum.
Reciprocity / Lateral Entry
Maryland allows officers certified in other states or federal jurisdictions to apply for certification if they meet equivalent training, testing and licensing standards.
- Submit prior certification and training records to MPTC.
- Complete any required Maryland-specific training modules.
- Pass Maryland certification exam and meet all selection, medical, fitness, and character standards.
Certification by reciprocity is not automatic and depends on review by MPTC.
POST Contact Information
Maryland Police & Correctional Training Commissions (MPTC)
6852 John P. Warren Way, Sykesville, MD 21784
Phone: (410) 875-3193
Website:
https://www.mptc.state.md.us
Official POST Requirements:
https://www.mptc.state.md.us/basic-training