Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST)

Created on 22 June 2012
Last Updated on 15 November 2012
Published on 22 June 2012
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These classes are certified by
The Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training

News & Updates

Overview

Imperial Valley College has certification by the State of California, Commission of Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST), to provide Peace Officer Training in the Regular Basic Course (RBC) Modular format.

The California Commission for Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) has established the criteria for training and certification for Law Enforcement Professionals in California. Imperial Valley College (IVC) is a certified presenter of that training program. Currently, IVC provides training programs in the following areas:

832 P.C. Certification Regular Basic Course Modular Format Level III and Level II Peace Officer Training

The courses are provided to meet the required standards for both Peace Officer candidates and other persons entering into or advancing in their careers in the law enforcement and public service sectors. Those needing this certification can include: Park Rangers, Community Service Officers, Animal Control Officers, Probation Department employees, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation employees, Fire and Arson Investigators, Vector Control Officers, Police Officers, Deputy Sheriff Personnel, District Attorney Office Personnel, and Court Personnel; to name just a few. Some candidates may want to become Reserve Peace Officers in their community. The role of a reserve officer may include a number of assignments, such as uniformed patrol, investigations, search and rescue, and special events security. These reserve officers serve part-time for a specific agency or department and have the same authority and powers of arrest as full-time peace officers.

Many of our Regular Basic Course (RBC) Modular Format Graduates work/volunteer as Reserve Officers for local law enforcement agencies as a supplement to the full-time Peace Officer. Reserve Officers are professionally trained and duly sworn law enforcement personnel, they are generally recruited by an agency during, or after successful completion of a California Commission on Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) certified academy. Our Regular Basic Course (RBC) classes are taught by local law enforcement personnel who look for recruits in each Academy class.

With the Arrest and Firearms Course, students, are able to volunteer and obtain jobs with different departments of the state, county, and municipalities.

Mission

The Mission of our Peace Officer Standards and Training program is to prepare students mentally, physically, morally and ethically to pursue a career and the responsibilities and duties as full-time or part-time Reserve and/or Peace Officers. The training meets or exceeds the requirements of California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training, provides testing, and ensures the students graduate with the character, knowledge, problem solving abilities, human relations skills, communication skills and physical skills necessary to meet the professional standards required of a Reserve and/or Peace Officer.

Program Details

The Peace Officer Standards and Training Program (P.O.S.T.) deals with the Arrest and Firearms Course also known as 832 P.C. The course is the minimum training standard for California peace officers as specified in Commission regulation 1005. The Arrest and Firearms (PC 832) course consists of two components, which total a minimum of 64 hours. The Arrest component has a 40-hour requirement, and the Firearms component has a 24-hour requirement. These components are divided into 14 individual topics, called Learning Domains (LD). The Learning Domains contain the minimum required foundational information for given subjects. The training and testing specifications for a particular domain may also include information on required instructional activities and testing requirements.

The Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) directs the training requirements which are based on the legislative language and skill sets for each specialization certification. The student who completes the courses listed below will be eligible to take the course specific certification exams as outlined by POST and if successful to act at the level authorized by that specific certification level.

The training classes are structured and designed through a partnership between IVC and POST. The Learning Domains, or areas taught in these courses, are standardized and certified Bi-Annually by POST. They include, but are not limited to: Ethics and Professionalism, Laws of Arrest, Criminal Justice System, Use of Force, Report Writing, Defensive Tactics, Arrest and Control, Firearms, Cultural Diversity, and the U.S. Constitution. A successful candidate in these training programs must attain a level of mastery in each LD or subject area. This can include both written tests and practical examinations. All levels of the testing is standardized and regulated by POST.


Uniform Requirement for Level III and II classes only.

The following courses have mandated eligibility requirements that must be completed prior to enrolling. Please contact the Administrative Justice/POST Department for further information.

POST - CPC 832 Arrest & Firearms
Eligibility Requirements for AJ 141 Arrest and Firearms

AJ 141 Arrest and Firearms meets the requirements for a PC 832 Arrest and Firearms Course and is the minimum training standard for California peace officers as specified in POST Regulation 1005. The student who would like to enroll into AJ 141 must meet ALL eligibility requirements listed below.

  1. Department of Justice (DOJ) Clearance Letter. The DOJ clearance must be completed priorto the start of the Arrest and Firearms course (AJ 141).
    1. Students, who do not pass the DOJ clearance process, will not be admitted to the course.
    2. A Department of Justice clearance letter is good for 90 days.
      1. If the 90 days expires prior to the start of class, the student must obtain a new clearance letter.
      2. Student who change from one AJ 141 class to another in the same semester, same school, and within 90 days, do not need a new clearance letter.
    3. For further information contact the Administrative Justice/POST Department Office
  2. Valid California Driver's License.
  3. Ability to successfully participate in physical requirements of course.
  4. U.S. citizen or have filed for U.S. citizenship.
  5. Must have a valid Social Security number prior to admission
  6. Proof of high school graduation or G.E.D.
  7. Be at least 18 years of age at the time of admission

RESERVE PEACE OFFICER PROGRAM

The State Legislature and the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) have established three levels of reserve peace officer to provide flexibility to law enforcement agencies. Imperial Valley College offers Level III and Level II. Reserve Peace Officers are required by Commission Regulations 9050-9055 to meet the same selection standards (e.g. personal history investigation and medical and psychological screening) as full-time regular officers. Commission Regulation 1007(a) outlines the minimum training requirements for reserve peace officers. Please contact the Administrative Justice and POST Department Office for further information regarding the requirements.

POST - Level II
Eligibility Requirements for AJ 162 (formerly AJ-144) Regular Basic Course Modular Format Level II

AJ 162 (formerly AJ-144) Regular Basic Course Modular Format Level II - upon successful completion, students may perform general law enforcement assignments while under the immediate supervision of a peace officer who has completed the Regular Basic Course and assignments authorized for Level III reserve officers without immediate supervision. Specified in Penal Code sections 830.6(a)(1) and 832.6(a)(2) The student who would like to enroll into AJ 162 Level II course must meet ALL eligibility requirements listed below.

  1. Complete and submit an application with all requested information attached 2 weeks prior to the start of the semester.
    1. Verification of completion of Level III training course is required.
    2. If the student has obtained their Level III at another college then the student needs to request a POST profile at http://www.post.ca.gov/general-questions.aspx.
    3. If a student does not enroll into the Regular Basic Course Modular Format Level II course for over a year, they must take the End of Course Proficiency Examination for Modular III. The student can make an appointment with the POST Coordinator at 760-355-6279 to schedule an appointment to take the examination. Upon successfully passing this Examination, the student will be able to enroll into the Regular Basic Course Modular Format Level II course.
    4. The completion date of the Level III course is the date listed on the POST profile.
  2. Department of Justice (DOJ) Clearance Letter. The DOJ clearance must be completed prior to the start of the Arrest and Firearms course (AJ 162).
    1. Students, who do not pass the DOJ clearance process, will not be admitted to the course.
    2. A Department of Justice clearance letter is good for 90 days.
      1. If the 90 days expires prior to the start of class, the student must obtain a new clearance letter.
      2. Student who change from one Level II class to another in the same semester, same school, and within 90 days, do not need a new clearance letter.
    3. For further information contact the Administrative Justice/POST Department Office
  3. Valid California Driver's License.
  4. Ability to successfully participate in physical requirements of course.
  5. U.S. citizen or have filed for U.S. citizenship.
  6. Must have a valid Social Security number prior to admission
  7. Proof of high school graduation or G.E.D.
  8. Be at least 18 years of age at the time of admission


POST - Level III
Eligibility Requirements for AJ 160 (formerly AJ-142) Regular Basic Course Modular Format Level III

AJ 160 Regular Basic Course Modular Format Level III - upon successful completion, students may perform specified limited support duties and other duties that are not likely to result in physical arrests, while supervised by a Level I reserve officer or a full-time regular officer. Additionally, Level III reserve officers may transport prisoners without immediate supervision. See specified requirements in Penal Code sections 830.6(a) (1) and 832.6(a) (2). The student who would like to enroll into AJ 160 must meet ALL eligibility requirements listed below.

  1. Complete and submit an application with all requested information attached 2 weeks prior to the start of the semester.
  2. Department of Justice (DOJ) Clearance Letter The DOJ clearance must be completed priorto the start of the Level III course (AJ 160).
    1. Students, who do not pass the DOJ clearance process, will not be admitted to the course.
    2. A Department of Justice clearance letter is good for 90 days.
      1. If the 90 days expires prior to the start of class, the student must obtain a new clearance letter.
      2. Student who change from one Level III class to another in the same semester, same school, and within 90 days, do not need a new clearance letter.
    3. For further information contact the Administrative Justice/POST Department Office
  3. Valid California Driver's License.
  4. Ability to successfully participate in physical requirements of course.
  5. U.S. citizen or have filed for U.S. citizenship.
  6. Must have a valid Social Security number prior to admission
  7. Proof of high school graduation or G.E.D.
  8. Be at least 18 years of age at the time of admission
  9. Highly Recommended - Completion of AJ 141 Arrest and Firearms prior to starting AJ 160

Resources

Imperial Valley College does not promote nor endorse these web sites. They are provided for your reference and convenience only.

Volunteer Information

  • Brawley Police Department
    Reserve Officer Program Coordinator
    Sgt. K. Brown, 760-351-3018
    (Brawley PD volunteers use the same application as employment)
  • El Centro Police Department
    Reserve Officer Program Coordinator
    Sgt. Scoville This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
  • Imperial Police Department
  • San Diego Police Department link to Reserve Officer

Department Contacts

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q. I want to become a full-time peace officer. Can the Regular Basic Course (RBC) Program help me?

A. Yes. The RBC can help you even if you do not become a reserve officer prior to seeking full-time law enforcement employment. The classes will help you develop a law enforcement atitude and provide considerable police training. Successful completion of the courses proves to potential law enforcement employers that you have the aptitude for police work and can endure a para-military style academy environment.

Q. What is "P.O.S.T."?

A. The term "POST" is an acronym for California Commission on Peace Officers Standards and Training

Q. What are the age, height and weight requirements to enter the academy?

A. The only absolute requirement is that cadets be a minimum of 18 years old. There is no maximum age. The student must be able to do physical activity.

Q. Is the academy recognized by out of area law enforcement agencies?

A. Yes. The POST certificate is recognized throughout the state of California. The academy curriculum exceeds California POST standards for Regular Basic Course (RBC) training.

Q. Do I receive college credit for completion of the academy?

A. Yes. The RBC Level III class is worth 10.0 units, The RBC Level II class is worth 13.5 units and the Arrest and Firearms class (PC832) is worth 3.5 units.

Q. When should I apply to the agency that I want to work for?

A. You can apply at any time. However, we recommend you complete the course.

Q. What do Reserve Officer uniforms and badges look like?

A. Reserve Officers or Reserve Deputies are generally indistinguishable from regular, full-time officers or deputies. This includes uniforms, shoulder patches and badges.

Q. What do Reserve Officers get to do?

A. It depends on the experience and qualifications of the reserve officer and on the policy and practices of the agency. Level II officers have full peace officer powers while on duty, but must be supervised by either a Level I officer or a regular, full-time officer. Level I officers may, depending on the policy of the agency, be deployed in the same capacity and assignments as a regular, full-time police officer. Check with the reserve coordinator of the particular agency for specific details on deployment.

Q. I have a "little problem" in my background. Will that keep me out of a law enforcement career?

A. Every agency maintains their own guidelines for officer selection. You cannot have any felony convictions and must be of sound mind and character. Beyond that, it is up to the criteria of the individual agency. When applying, it is important to be completely honest about your background.

Q. Does the academy conduct a background investigation?

A. Yes, the academy conducts a Department of Justice (DOJ) search to ensure cadets have no felony or domestic violence convictions on their record. All applicants must complete a background check 'Livescan' a minimum of 2 weeks before the first day of class. Once the results are final, a copy of the Department of Justice (DOJ) clearance letter must be submitted to the POST department office.

Q. Does every cadet become a Police Officer or Reserve Officer?

A. No, not usually. Most of the qualified graduates are picked up by an agency within a year after graduation.

Q. Do I have to participate in firearms training?

A. Yes. Firearm qualification is mandatory for P.O.S.T. certification and for successful completion of the program.

Q. Do I have to participate in chemical agents training?

A. Yes. Chemical agents training is an integral portion of the course and is mandatory for P.O.S.T. certification and for successful completion of the program.

Q. Do I have to participate in physical training?

A. Yes. Physical qualification is mandatory for P.O.S.T. certification and for successful completion of the program.

Q. Can I miss some academy sessions for work-related obligations?

A. Only 3 days, but there are many mandatory days that cannot be made up if they are missed.

SELF-ASSESSMENT


The P.O.S.T. courses are very rigorous and challenging. It is a rewarding accomplishment to complete the program(s) and the IVC P.O.S.T. staff wants you to be successful in achieving your career goals. This assessment is designed to assist you in determining your suitability for the program and provides further insight for the training expectations. Together with your spouse and/or family members, answer the following questions to determine whether you are ready to undertake the demands of the law enforcement academy training.

  1. Do you have all the necessary finances in order? Consider tuition, books, uniform costs, DOJ clearance fees and ammunition.
  2. Are you physically ready? A recommended exercise program should include the following:
    1. Flexibility: static stretching at least 2-3 days per week, 8-12 stretches each day, hold each stretch for 15-30 seconds and repeat each 2-4 times.
    2. Aerobic Conditioning: continuous jogging 3-5 days per week, 20-60 minutes each day.
    3. Muscular Strength: One set of 8-10 exercises including upper body, core and legs 2-3 days per week, 8-20 repetitions per set.
  3. Are you mentally ready? Do you think well when under stress? Do you take written tests well? Can you write well?
  4. Can you follow directions and take orders? The POST program is paramilitary in nature.
  5. Can you control your emotions under high stress situations? The program requires you to think quickly on your feet, follow directions, and respond calmly under emotional tense conditions.
  6. Do you get along well with others? Can you accept criticism from peers? Your performance will be continuously assessed by your peers and supervisors throughout the program.
  7. Can you devote at least three hours each night to study and preparation? In order to attain a successful class ranking in a very competitive academy like environment you must put forth your best effort and eliminate all personal distractions.
  8. Do you have the full support of your family? Will you encourage your family to assist you in your training? Family support is a critical factor in academy success. Family members can help with your studies and uniform preparation.