How to Become a Sheriff’s Deputy in Florida
Imagine a career that allows you to build relationships, protect the residents of your county and gain valuable skills. Through training, new challenges and meaningful work, you grow into the best version of yourself – a role model in the community. These are just a few of the many reasons to become a sheriff’s deputy.
Working as a sheriff’s deputy offers opportunities to earn incredible benefits for you and your family, including retirement benefits. Thanks to the passing of HB3 in the Florida Legislature, deputies in Florida can earn bonuses, funding for education, private school scholarships for their children and more.
There’s never been a better time to explore an exciting law enforcement career in Florida. Ready to get started? Here’s everything you need to know about becoming a sheriff’s deputy.
What Does the Job Look Like?
As a sheriff’s deputy, every day brings something new. You’re active and constantly on the move. Daily functions of the job include identifying and solving problems, enforcing laws, making arrests, gathering information for your agency and being a positive influence on your community. You may also be responsible for:
- Responding to calls
- Responding to accidents
- Performing welfare checks
- Providing traffic support for local events and businesses
Some sheriff’s deputies work in correction facilities, a role which comes with its own tasks and responsibilities.
Requirements to Become a Sheriff’s Deputy
To become a sheriff’s deputy in Florida, there are two main requirements you must meet:
- Become a Certified Law Enforcement Officer by FDLE
- Complete Police Academy Training
In addition to those two certifications, other requirements and training vary by county and by agency. Some common qualifications include being over a certain age (often 18 or 21), having a high school diploma or equivalent and having a valid U.S. drivers’ license. Depending on the role, you may also need a degree in criminal justice or a related field.
To learn about the specific requirements in your area, visit the FSA job board.
How to Get Started
There are a few steps to the application process when applying for a law enforcement position. For example, the process may include:
- Looking for job openings in your area
- Reviewing requirements for each position
- Completing required background checks
- Becoming certified by FDLE
- Completing Police Academy training (typically 18-24 weeks)
Of course, every agency – and every job – will have its own requirements and application process.
Police Academy Training
Police academy training includes both a physical and educational component, with emphasis on areas such as firearms, arrest procedures and high-speed driving. Some agencies require that you complete the necessary training before applying, while others will pay for the training you need. If you have already completed a Corrections Academy, you can complete a Crossover Academy to become certified for law enforcement.
Before getting started, be sure to look for scholarship and assistance programs available through the State of Florida and local community colleges in your area.
Explore Jobs Today
Interested in starting an exciting law enforcement career? The Florida Sheriffs Association’s job board provides information about career opportunities across the state of Florida. You can browse available positions by job type or location to find the role that’s perfect for you. Sign up for email alerts to become the first to know when new jobs are posted. Ready to answer the call and become a sheriff’s deputy? Click here to get started.
