How to Become a Correctional Officer: A Step-by-Step Guide

Working as a correctional officer can be a rewarding yet challenging career path. Correctional officers play a vital role in maintaining safety and security in jails, prisons and other detention facilities.

If you’re interested in becoming a correctional officer this comprehensive guide will walk you through the main steps and requirements involved in launching this career.

Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

While specific qualifications can vary slightly by state there are some basic requirements you’ll need to meet to qualify for correctional officer jobs

• Be a U.S. citizen – Correctional officer jobs require American citizenship. Dual citizenship may be acceptable in some cases.

• Be at least 18-21 years old – Most states set the minimum age between 18-21 years. The federal Bureau of Prisons requires candidates to be at least 21.

• Have a high school diploma or GED – While some states may accept those without a diploma if they have military or police experience, a diploma or equivalent is mandatory in most cases.

• Have a valid driver’s license – You’ll need a license to travel between facilities and transport inmates if required.

• Pass a background check – A history of criminal behavior or questionable character may disqualify applicants.

• Meet physical and mental health standards – The role demands above-average fitness and psychological stability.

Meeting these baseline eligibility criteria is fundamental to being considered for correctional officer openings.

Earn a High School Diploma or GED

While some states may waiver education requirements for those with military or corrections experience, possessing a high school diploma or GED is mandatory for becoming a correctional officer in most cases.

These programs provide the foundational reading, writing and math skills needed to understand regulations, complete reports and pass training exams.

If you don’t have your diploma, look into GED preparatory classes offered by high schools, community colleges and adult education centers in your area. Studying for a few months can help you pass the GED exam.

Consider Pursuing Higher Education

Although typically not required, completing some college coursework can enhance your competitiveness for correctional officer roles.

Many aspiring officers pursue associate’s or bachelor’s degrees related to criminal justice, law enforcement or government. Relevant course topics include:

• Criminal law
• Correctional system operations
• Psychology
• Communication
• Conflict resolution
• Emergency response

Higher education teaches useful skills and demonstrates your commitment to the field. It can also open up leadership opportunities.

Check Out Correctional Officer Job Openings

Once you meet basic requirements, start actively looking for correctional officer job vacancies.

• Search state Department of Corrections websites for openings at state facilities.

• Look for county and city jail job postings.

• Check federal Bureau of Prisons listings for correctional officer roles at federal prisons.

• Search private prison company career sites for potential openings at their managed facilities.

Sign up for email alerts and follow organizations’ social media pages to stay on top of opportunities. Cast a wide net by applying to multiple locations.

Submit Your Correctional Officer Application

Typically you’ll need to submit an initial online application with details on your background, education, work history and other qualifications.

This will be followed by forms requiring more in-depth information on aspects like:

• Past addresses and roommates

• Financial history

• Relatives and references

• Driving record

• Drug testing consent

Take time to complete all materials thoroughly and accurately. Missing information can jeopardize your application.

Prepare for the Correctional Officer Exam

Most agencies require applicants to pass a written exam covering memory, reading comprehension, situational judgment and other abilities needed for the role.

Give yourself several weeks to study using preparatory manuals, online practice tests and sample questions provided by the hiring agency. Areas to brush up on include:

• Grammar and vocabulary

• Logic

• Ethics

• Mechanical principles

• Analytical thinking

Some practice and review can help you perform well on the corrections officer exam.

Undergo the Physical Abilities Test

You’ll need to demonstrate adequate physical fitness through exercises like:

• Sprints (e.g. 300 meter run in under 70 seconds)

• Push ups (24-28 repetitions in a minute)

• Sit ups (28-35 repetitions in a minute)

• Vertical jumps

• Obstacle courses

• Dragging/carrying tasks

Work on cardio conditioning, strength training and agility to prepare for the rigorous physical standards required. Having solid fitness gives you an advantage.

Pass the Background Check

Agencies will conduct a thorough check of your background looking for any red flags around past behaviors, finances, criminal history, driving record, addictions and character issues.

Be honest and transparent. Major omissions or attempts to hide parts of your history could disqualify you.

Complete Medical and Psychological Evaluations

You’ll undergo medical tests to verify you are in sound physical health and able to perform the demanding duties of the role. An eye exam, urine test, bloodwork and physical are typically required.

A psychologist will assess if you have the necessary mental stability to handle high-stress scenarios in corrections safely.

Cooperate fully so any needs for accommodations or treatment are identified upfront.

Complete Correctional Officer Training

Once hired, you’ll attend a training academy for 8-12 weeks. This covers:

• Facility policies and operations

• Defensive tactics and use of restraints

• Weapons training

• Emergency response

• Communication and conflict resolution

• Inmate management and supervision

Pay close attention during training to build expertise in standard protocols and excel at hands-on scenarios. This kickstarts your career.

Get Assigned to a Facility

After graduating the academy, you’ll get placed at a state prison, federal penitentiary, local jail or other detention facility to begin official corrections duties.

You’ll be on probation for 1-2 years as you gain experience before becoming a fully commissioned officer.

Remain professional, seek mentors and keep sharpening your skills as you embark on your new correctional officer career.

Tips for Aspiring Correctional Officers

Here are a few tips to help you successfully become a correctional officer:

• Get in shape – Meeting physical fitness requirements gives you an edge. Start working out several months before applying.

• Gain related experience – Look for security, loss prevention or probation officer roles to build relevant skills.

• Highlight your strengths – Emphasize your integrity, communication abilities and crisis management poise throughout the hiring process.

• Ask questions – Don’t be afraid to request clarification during training on protocols you’re unsure about.

• Continuously learn – Take advantage of in-service training to strengthen your expertise.

With determination and focus, you can overcome the hurdles involved in joining this challenging yet meaningful profession.

By following these key steps, you’ll be on your way to launching a stable and rewarding career as a correctional officer.