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Aspiring Deputy Sheriff Trainee?

Here’s What You Need to Know Before Getting Started​

Becoming a Deputy Sheriff Trainee is a competitive, multi-step hiring process that requires preparation, commitment, and time. This is not an immediate hire. Applicants should be prepared for a thorough evaluation designed to identify candidates ready for the responsibilities of a career in law enforcement.

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Step 1:Written Examination Requirement

Applicants must meet the written examination requirement before advancing in the hiring process.

Documentation must be submitted with the application.
All test scores must be dated within 12 months of the application date unless otherwise noted.

Applicants may qualify by meeting one of the following options:

Option 1: POST Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB)

• Must be completed in 2.5 hours or less
• Minimum passing T-Score of 48

Schedule the test at:
https://theacademy.ca.gov/tests/

Option 2: Basic Police Academy Certification

• Must meet California POST requirements

Option 3: Education Requirement

• Associate’s degree or higher from an accredited U.S. college or university

Already POST Certified?

Applicants who have completed a California POST Basic Police Academy may meet the written examination requirement and may proceed in the process.

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Step 2: Physical Agility Test

Applicants must complete a Work Sample Test Battery (WSTB) with a minimum score of 384 and within 12 months of the application date. Apply to take the exam here. One of the parts of this physical agility test is the ability to run a 1.5 mile in 14 minutes or less.

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Step 3: Submit Your Application

All applicants must submit an online employment application to be considered.

Applicants must also:

• Complete all supplemental questions

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Important Notes

• PELLETB scores from other agencies or training organizations may be accepted if they meet California POST standards.
• Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee advancement in the hiring process.

Hiring Timeline (Estimated)

The Deputy Sheriff Trainee selection process typically spans several months to over one year, depending on applicant volume, background complexity, and department needs.

Typical hiring phases include:

• Application review and eligibility screening — two weeks
• Oral interview panel(s)
• Background investigation — twomonths
• Psychological and medical evaluations
• Final review and conditional job offer
• Academy assignment based on available start dates

Each phase must be successfully completed before advancing to the next step.

What to Expect

The hiring process is lengthy, comprehensive, and highly competitive. It is designed to evaluate a candidate’s:

• Integrity
• Decision-making ability
• Physical readiness
• Long-term suitability for a law enforcement career

Applicants seeking a fast or simplified hiring process should carefully consider whether this career path aligns with their expectations.

Ready to Begin the Journey?

If you are prepared to commit to a challenging and rewarding career path, follow the steps above to begin your pursuit of becoming a Deputy Sheriff Trainee.

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