To apply:
- Download the Application (requires Adobe Acrobat Reader).
- Complete the form fill application in black using a computer.
- Email your completed application to: PoliceRecruit@ArlingtonTX.gov. Label the subject line "APD Application" and attach the application to the email.
- Allow 1-2 weeks for an email confirmation.
The Arlington Police Department only accepts applications submitted via email.
Length Of The Hiring Process
The entire pre-employment process is based on the most qualified applicant(s) being processed first; therefore, the length of the process may vary with each applicant. The application process is valid for one year from the candidate screening date. Those eliminated in the process will remain ineligible for one year from the date of elimination.
Phase I
Application
Those interested in applying to be an Arlington Police officer should download and fill out an application form. The application form can be found by visiting ArlingtonPD.org/Recruiting and clicking on the "Apply Today" button.
Completed applications should be emailed to the APD Personnel & Recruiting Unit at PoliceRecruit@ArlingtonTX.gov.
The application will then be reviewed by the department to ensure the applicant meets all eligibility requirements.
Candidate Screening
Applicants who meet eligibility requirements will be contacted by a member of the APD Personnel & Recruiting Unit to schedule a Screening and Physical Agility Assessment date.
The applicant will also be sent a Personal History Statement that they must complete prior to their Screening / Physical Agility Assessment date.
Applicants may use form fill on a computer to complete the first part of the Personal History Statement. However, they will need to print a hard copy and hand write the essay portion.
Applicants should bring their completed Personal History Statement with them to their assigned Screening / Physical Agility Assessment date.
During the Screening, members of the APD Personnel & Recruiting Unit may ask follow-up questions.
Physical Agility Assessment
Applicants must successfully complete a Physical Agility Assessment. Prior to taking the Physical Agility Assessment, applicants will be required to complete and sign the Physical Agility Assessment Claim Release.
To learn more about the assessment and the minimum standard you will have to meet to pass, visit the
Physical Agility Assessment section of the APD Recruiting site.
Phase II
EyeDetect Examination
Each applicant must successfully complete a Converus EyeDetect examination. The applicant will discuss their personal history in the areas of credit, theft, illegal drugs, criminal convictions, serious crimes committed, work history, and any excessive use of force complaints (former police officers). A polygraph may be administered in lieu of EyeDetect in limited situations and at the discretion of the Personnel & Recruiting Sergeant.
Psychological Examination
The applicant is assessed for his / her psychological suitability for the law enforcement profession through a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist, provided by the City of Arlington.
Medical Examination
A licensed physician, provided by the City of Arlington, will give the applicant a complete medical examination.
Phase III - Background Investigation
The Department will conduct an extensive background investigation. The areas of concern include, but will not be limited to, current employment, previous law enforcement experience, criminal history, thefts, drug usage, financial or credit history and driving/accident history.
Phase IV - Oral Interview Board
Senior command staff members of the Arlington Police Department will interview applicants. The applicant will be questioned about their background as it relates to dependability, command presence, situational reasoning ability, interpersonal skills, oral / written communication skills and integrity.
Command Staff members will evaluate information from the applicant's background and their responses to interview questions to ensure that their personal and professional values are in line with those of the department.
Arlington PD is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F D/V.