Boston Police Recruiting

Join the Boston Police Department

Start your application with the Boston Police Department recruiting unit.

Serving Boston Since 1854

About the Boston Police Department

The Boston Police Department is one of the oldest municipal police departments in the United States. Our mission is to work in partnership with the community to fight crime, reduce fear, and improve the quality of life in every Boston neighborhood.

From community policing and neighborhood outreach to major investigations and specialized units, BPD is committed to professionalism, integrity, and transparency. We're looking for officers who reflect the diversity, talent, and values of the communities we serve.

Community-Based

Neighborhood officers, youth outreach, and partnerships with local organizations are at the core of our work.

Values-Driven

Integrity, respect, and accountability guide every decision we make and every call we respond to.

Modern Training

Recruit officers receive academy and field training focused on de-escalation, procedural justice, and officer wellness.

Career Support

From mentorship to promotional opportunities, you'll have support throughout your BPD career.

Careers with Purpose

Why Choose a Career with BPD?

Join one of the nation's leading police departments and build a rewarding career serving Boston. As a Boston Police Officer, you'll receive competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities to advance while making a real difference in your community.

Competitive Compensation

Receive competitive salary with overtime opportunities, plus comprehensive health and dental insurance, life insurance, and a pension plan. View Salary Chart

Career Advancement

Clear promotional paths to detective, sergeant, lieutenant, and captain with specialized units including K9, Homicide, Human Trafficking, and Community Engagement.

Paid Training Academy

32-week paid academy program featuring procedural justice studies, de-escalation tactics, physical training, and mental endurance preparation.

Education Incentive and Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Programs designed to support educational goals and long-term benefits available through public service.

Serve Your Community

Connect with residents, help those in need, and make a positive impact in Boston neighborhoods you know and care about.

Diverse & Inclusive

Join a department committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, serving all members of our community with empathy and integrity.

Where your career can go

Specialized Assignments

After gaining experience as a patrol officer, you may have opportunities to pursue specialized units. Assignments vary based on department needs and officer qualifications.

Detective Bureau

K-9 Unit

Special Operations / SWAT

Mounted Unit

Harbor Patrol

School Police / Youth Services

Community Engagement Units

Cyber & Digital Evidence

From Interest to Academy

The Hiring Process

Our recruiting team will guide you through each step. The process typically takes several months and follows civil service requirements to ensure we select the most qualified candidates.

Step One

Civil Service Exam or Local Register

Register online and take the Massachusetts Civil Service Exam ($75 fee; waivers may be available). The exam is offered annually, and study guides are available on the state's website. Applicants may also apply through the Local Registry Pathway.

Step Two

Invitation to Sign the List

Qualified candidates are invited to sign the eligibility list based on exam results and applicable preferences. List placement determines the order in which candidates move forward.

Step Three

Background Investigation

Complete an extensive application packet and undergo a background investigation, including drug screening and review by Recruit Investigations Unit detectives.

Step Four

Conditional Offer Letter

Candidates who successfully complete the background investigation may receive a conditional offer of employment, contingent upon completion of all remaining required steps.

Step Five

Medical & Psychological Evaluation

Candidates must complete medical and psychological evaluations as part of the hiring process to assess overall readiness and suitability for service as a Boston Police Officer.

Step Six

PAT Training

Candidates participate in Physical Ability Test (PAT) training as part of the hiring process to prepare for required physical fitness standards.

Step Seven

MPTC Test

Candidates must pass the Massachusetts Police Training Committee (MPTC) entrance examination as part of the required pre-academy process. View Fitness Standards

Step Eight

Academy Training

Attend the paid 32-week Boston Police Academy, which includes classroom instruction, tactical training, and physical conditioning.

Step Nine

Graduation & Probationary Period

Upon successful graduation from the Academy, officers enter a probationary period that includes supervised field training and performance evaluation.

Age Requirements

Must be between 19 and 39 years old at the time of taking the Civil Service Exam. Applicants using the Local Registry Pathway may apply up to age 40.
No more than 39 years old on exam date
Must be 21 years old to enter the Boston Police Academy
Test results valid for up to 2 years

Education Requirements

High school diploma or GED certificate
OR Three years of military service with honorable discharge

Residency & Licensing

Valid Massachusetts Driver's License
Boston resident for at least 1 year before exam date

To claim the Boston Residency Preference through Civil Service, applicants must have lived in Boston for at least one year prior to taking the exam. Applicants applying through the Local Registry Pathway are not required to meet a prior residency requirement but must obtain and maintain Boston residency by the first day of the Academy.

Additional Information

Must pass background check and drug screening
Must pass Physical Abilities Test (PAT)
Must pass ROC Entry-Level Fitness Standards
Must complete medical and psychological evaluations

Disqualifiers

Poor Driving Record
Felony Conviction
OUI Conviction within the last 7 years
Issues with Integrity
Any positive drug test result, including marijuana after applying and while employed with the Boston Police Department.

Opportunities to Meet the Team

Upcoming Recruiting Events

Join an upcoming recruitment event to meet the team and learn more about the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Applicant FAQ

Here are answers to some of the most common questions we receive. Policies and requirements are subject to change; recruiters can provide the most current information.

Eligibility requirements can include age, residency, education, driver's license, and background standards established by the City of Boston, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and BPD. A recruiter can help you review the current requirements and timelines.

No. Prior experience can be helpful but is not required. We recruit candidates from many backgrounds and professions. The academy will provide the training you need to become a Boston Police Officer.

Timelines can vary based on civil service exam schedules, background investigations, and upcoming academy classes. The estimated timeline from signing to final offer is approximately six months.

Yes. Lateral transfer opportunities for experienced officers from other agencies are available through the Local Registry Pathway, subject to applicable rules and openings. Contact a recruiter for current availability.

Our recruiting unit is available to answer questions, discuss your goals, and help you decide if BPD is a good fit. Use the contact form below or the phone and email listed to connect with us.

Ready to Get Started?

Apply or Contact a Recruiter

If you're ready to move forward, start your application. If you're still exploring, you can text, email, or call a recruiter and we'll help you navigate the process.

Start Here

Start your application online and submit your information directly to the Boston Police recruiting team.

Submit an Interest Card

Text to Learn More

Want quick answers on requirements, timelines, or next steps?

Text JOINBPD to (617) 752-8673 to connect with a recruiter.

Standard messaging rates may apply.

Email or Call

Prefer to talk it through with someone? Reach out to the recruiting unit directly by email or phone.

Recruiters typically respond within 1–2 business days.

BPD Recruiting