Utah POST Requirements

Minimum Requirements

• Age: At least 21 years old at the time of certification (can enter training slightly earlier depending on agency).
• Education: High school diploma or GED; some agencies require college credits.
• Citizenship: U.S. citizen.
• Driver license: Valid driver’s license (Utah license required by appointment).
• Criminal history: No felony convictions; no domestic violence convictions; no dishonorable military discharge; no crimes of moral turpitude; must meet Utah POST background standards.
• Other requirements:
  • Pass a fingerprint-based background check.
  • Pass a medical examination.
  • Pass psychological evaluation.
  • Pass drug screening.
  • Successfully complete Utah POST-certified academy (SFO + LEO or full LEO track).

Physical Fitness Standards

Utah POST requires all cadets to pass standardized physical readiness standards at several points in training.

• 1.5-mile run (timed).
• Push-ups (1 minute).
• Sit-ups (1 minute).
• Vertical jump or similar leg-power event.
• Agility/obstacle course depending on academy.

Utah POST publishes official minimum numeric standards for each event, updated periodically. Cadets must pass entrance and exit standards.

Academy Training Requirements

Minimum academy hours: 728

Utah POST Basic Training consists of two components: Special Function Officer (SFO) and Law Enforcement Officer (LEO). Combined, the full LEO certification program is approximately 728 hours and covers criminal law, arrest techniques, EVOC, firearms, report writing, investigations, defensive tactics, and scenario-based training.

Reference: Utah Peace Officer Standards and Training – LEO/SFO curriculum hour standards.

Reciprocity / Lateral Entry

Utah POST offers a Waiver Process for officers with prior law enforcement certification from another state or federal/military police service.

• Submit documentation of previous training and experience to POST.
• If accepted, complete the Utah Waiver Exam and any supplemental Utah-specific legal or skills training.
• Meet Utah POST background, medical, and psychological standards.
• Firearms qualification may be required depending on POST review.

Waiver eligibility is NOT automatic — POST reviews training hours, curriculum, and experience individually.

POST Contact Information

Utah Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST)
410 West 9800 South
Sandy, UT 84070
Phone: 801-256-2300
Website: https://post.utah.gov

Official POST Requirements:
https://post.utah.gov/training-information/basic-training