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ATLANTIC COUNTY

Alternate route training available to become a police officer

  • Atlantic County


EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP - The Atlantic County Police Training Center will provide testing for those interested in participating in the next Alternate Route Basic Course for Police Officers program. The written test will be administered 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 10 at the Canale Training Center, 5033 English Creek Ave.

The Alternate Route Program allows individuals interested in becoming police officers the opportunity to train at the Police Training Center at their own expense prior to being hired by a law enforcement agency.

Applicants must have 60 college credits or two years of active duty military time by the start of the six-month academy on Jan. 17, 2025. As per state Administrative Code, graduates who are titled ”police officer” must enroll in the Police and Firemen’s Retirement System and be appointed before their 35th birthday. The “police officer” title includes all municipal police officers, excluding Sheriff’s officers.

Registration for the test is available at www.PoliceApp.com. There is a $110 non-refundable application fee. A maximum of 100 applications for the test will be accepted.  

Although successful completion of the program does not guarantee a candidate a position in law enforcement, graduates are able to pursue employment as a certified police officer for a three-year period from their date of graduation.

Historically, more than 95% of those who complete the program gain employment within three years. It is not uncommon for them to receive job offers before they graduate or within the first six months. 

For more information about the program, please visit atlanticcountynj.gov and search “Alternate Route Program” or email [email protected].