Frequently asked questions

Q: What are the minimum requirements for becoming a police officer?

A: Applicants must be 21 years of age at the start of the Academy. You must be a U.S. citizen at application time. You must possess at least a high school diploma or a G.E.D. A valid motor vehicle license is required throughout the process. You cannot have any drunk driving convictions within two years of the application process. You also cannot have any felony convictions or misdemeanor convictions of domestic violence.

Q: Where do I obtain an application?

A: Applications become available ONLY during a designated period, usually the spring or summer, for at least one month. The City of Omaha Human Resources Department has the application forms online to send electronically, by fax or by mail. You can also apply in person ONLY during the designated time period at City of Omaha Human Resources Department, 1819 Farnam Street, Room 506.

Q: Is a college degree required?

A: No. However, after two years on the department, you may apply to receive college incentive pay for having either a bachelor's or master's degree.

Q: How long does the hiring process take?

A: From the time applications are first accepted to the beginning of the recruit class will take a minimum of six months. This is normal for any metropolitan police department our size.

Q: Do I have to live in Omaha as an officer?

A: No. You can live anywhere in the area, including Iowa.

Q: What kind of hours do police officers work?

A: There are several shifts available, generally daytime, evening and overnight shifts. An officer may bid to work a different shift and area every six months.

Q: How long until I can be a detective?

A: An officer must work at least three years before becoming eligible to work in a specialty position.

Q: Do you have a lateral transfer program?

A: We currently are not expecting to have a lateral class in the near future, although we have had some lateral classes in the past.

Q: What is the salary range of an officer?

A: Once you are in the Academy, you receive training pay. Top base pay is reached after five years on the job. There are overtime opportunities as well. The salary for 2007 is: 

Q: What is the Academy like?

A: The Omaha Police Department has its own 21-week Academy that runs Monday through Friday during daytime hours. Recruits go home at the end of the day; however, no other jobs are allowed during the first year of employment (military excluded). The Academy is generally classroom work, defensive tactics training/exercises, practical exams, firearms training and physical fitness training. It is highly suggested that you be in good physical shape upon entering the Academy, as you will be required to run several miles a week.