young cadets????

[winner7]

I'm taking my written test in a few weeks and I was just wondering about how much my age plays a role in the CHP. I just turned 20 and live at home, but finishing my AA and cert in criminal justice in late may. Spotless criminal, traffic, and credit. Any advice, help, criticism would be apppreciated thanks!!!

[Officer_Grady]

I think you have to be 21 at the time of appointment, meaning 20 and a half at the time of academy. I don't know if you have to wait six months, but the hiring process can be three months to 2 years. I'd tell you to take the tests.

[winner7]

thanks I will, I forgot to add I've only had 2 jobs too. I'm really concerned about the life experience/work experience part thanks

[dw]

You may submit your application at age 20. Grady is correct that you must be 20 1/2 by the time you enter the Academy, but most likely, testing will take at least 6 months.

I wouldn't sweat the lack of history -- as long as what history you do have is clean. I went straight from college to the Academy. I worked here and there through high school and college, but never had a real "full time" job per se. Personally, I'd expect a CJ major to be applying right out of college. Doesn't make sense to get a CJ degree and go flip burgers for a couple years before applying.

Good luck.

[Mac]

I agree with DW. I can only tell you from personal experience that my age didn't hurt me.....I applied at 20, went to the academy at about 21 1/2. It isn't the chronological age as much as the maturity that's going to be scrutinized.....whether or not you're ready mentally to assume the heavy responsibilities and decisions that come along with the job.

[dw]

One more benefit, by coming on when I was 22, I'll be out no later than age 52 at 90% (or more) retirement. I didn't have a clue about retirement when I was applying. The earlier, the better. Then you can retire early and start a whole new life, if you chose.

[Mac]

One more benefit, by coming on when I was 22, I'll be out no later than age 52 at 90% (or more) retirement. I didn't have a clue about retirement when I was applying. The earlier, the better. Then you can retire early and start a whole new life, if you chose.
When I came on, the retirement system was different - the ideal age to come on (for retirement purposes) was around 26-27 years old, and the old-timers were telling me that I made a mistake and should have waited a few years. My attitude was that I had to work anyways, so I might as well be doing something that I enjoy, so it was no big deal to me. I didn't have a clue how it worked coming in either, and really didn't care. As the retirement system changed, it turned out that I made the right choice after all - I'll retire at age 51 with 90% plus.

[winner7]

thanks a lot guys I really appreciate the help the chp will be my first attempt at anything and hopefully my only. My father was a career leo for LA and wished he had done chp, so I'm taking his advice plus I know one officer who went from city to state and told me it was better. I'm trying to gather all the info I can and do a few ride-a-longs as well. Already in shape, anything else? thanks........

[dw]

thanks a lot guys I really appreciate the help the chp will be my first attempt at anything and hopefully my only. My father was a career leo for LA and wished he had done chp, so I'm taking his advice plus I know one officer who went from city to state and told me it was better. I'm trying to gather all the info I can and do a few ride-a-longs as well. Already in shape, anything else? thanks........

What was your father's reasoning for wishing he had gone with the CHP?

[winner7]

Had to spend most of his career in 77th and east LA, stabbed twice and shot at. He said the chp officers were much more professional and friendly he knew a few and said they were great guys. He always said he would rather me dodge cars than bullets, he's actaully deceased. I really think It was the quality of officers around him though if you ask me.

[Officer_Grady]

just start running, like now. As for your father's career, I have nothing bad to say about LAPD. When I worked at CLA, those airships be at your scene or pursuit in two minutes and light up the sky. I remember training a new officer and told her to stop at a LAPD car stop. That's how you build rapport, get out of the car and chat a few minutes, learn what crime problems they might be having close to the freeway and on your turnarounds, just do a drive by and show the colors. Good luck.