Each state differs on when, during the hiring process, an officer must complete the physical fitness/agility tests. Some require certain minimum standards in order to enter the academies, and some also require a higher score as an exit requirement from the academy.
Most states prorate the required scores based on gender and age. Generally, the age brackets are 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, and 60+. The following information is an average of the various qualifications listed by the many state and federal agencies, and reflects the age range of 20–29 for both male and female.
1.5 Mile Run |
Must complete in anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on age, gender, and state. |
Situps |
One minute time limit; 20–40 depending on age, gender, and state. |
Pushups |
One minute time limit; 11–39 depending on age, gender, and state. |
Dummy Drag |
150 to 165 lb. “dummy” dragged between 15 and 100 feet in times ranging from 11 to 90 seconds. |
Dash |
220, 328, or 500 yard run; must be completed (depending on distance) from 60 to 90 seconds. |
Sit and Reach |
Sitting on the floor with legs extended directly in front, reach between 16 and 20 inches depending on age, gender, and state. |
Bench Press |
Being able to bench-press 57 percent to 106 percent of your body weight, depending on age, gender, and state. |
Vertical Jump |
From a standing position, jump a specified height. |
Swimming |
Candidates will be expected to swim a given distance, sometimes within a specific time frame, and tread water for a period of time. All swimming tests are conducted in a depth of water well in excess of the candidate's height. |
Obstacle Courses |
Completion of a specific course of obstacles within a specified time. |
Balance |
Walking or running on a balance beam. |
Window Entry |
Enter a window 24″ × 24 ″. |
Fence Climb |
Climbing 6' chain-link or wooden fence. |
Pushing Test |
Push patrol vehicle 15' on paved, level road while in neutral. |
Entry and Exit |
Enter or exit a patrol vehicle and access trunk and/or place items in trunk and re-enter the vehicle within a given amount of time. |
Dry Fire |
Being able to dry-fire a weapon (operate the trigger and charging mechanisms of a pistol, rifle, or shotgun without ammunition) a number of repetitions within a given time. |
Separation Event |
Being able to separate two or more physical combatants in a given amount of time. |
Trigger-Pull |
Being able to operate the trigger of a pistol, rifle, or shotgun with both hands a designated number of repetitions within a given amount of time. |
Specific Gravity |
Being tested for a specific ratio of body fat to overall weight. |
