Top 10 Deputy Sheriff Certifications

Certifications are important for deputy sheriffs in the job market because they demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field. Certifications can provide employers with an assurance that a potential employee has received the necessary training and education to perform their duties, as well as a way to assess their overall qualifications. This helps employers distinguish between applicants who may be qualified for a position but lack the necessary certifications from those who have obtained them. Additionally, certifications often come with additional benefits such as salary increases or promotions, which makes them even more attractive to employers.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of certifications that can enhance a Deputy Sheriff's career and improve their job prospects.

What are Deputy Sheriff Certifications?

Deputy Sheriff certification is a professional credential that recognizes the completion of specialized training and experience in law enforcement. It is granted by a state-level certifying body such as the Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) board or similar organization. Deputy Sheriff certification may be required for certain positions, such as those in larger departments or those with higher levels of responsibility.

Deputy Sheriff certification demonstrates to employers that an individual has developed the skills necessary to perform law enforcement duties effectively and safely. This includes knowledge of laws and regulations, investigation techniques, use of force protocols, community policing strategies, problem solving skills, and more. Certification also indicates that an individual has completed a rigorous curriculum designed to prepare them for the challenges they will face while on duty.

Having a Deputy Sheriff certification can help an individual stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs in law enforcement. It shows employers that they have the right qualifications and training necessary to do the job safely and correctly. Additionally, it may open up opportunities for advancement within a department or even outside of it if desired. With this credential, individuals can prove their commitment to excellence in their chosen field and demonstrate their dedication to public safety.

Pro Tip: Take the time to research and understand the specific requirements for deputy sheriff certification in your state. Every state has different requirements and qualifications, so it is important to make sure you are aware of all of them before you apply for certification.

Related: What does a Deputy Sheriff do?

Top 10 Deputy Sheriff Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Deputy Sheriffs today.

1. Firearms Certification

Firearms Certification is a legal requirement for anyone who wishes to purchase or possess firearms in the United States. It involves taking a firearms safety course, passing a background check, and completing an application for a firearms license. The certification process can vary from state to state, but generally it takes anywhere from two weeks to several months to complete the entire process.

In order to obtain Firearms Certification, applicants must first take an approved firearms safety course and pass a written exam. This course typically covers basic firearm safety principles such as handling and storage of firearms, proper gun use and maintenance, and local laws related to firearms ownership. After successfully completing the course and passing the exam, applicants must then submit an application for a firearms license with their local law enforcement agency or state police department. This application will require background information such as criminal history and mental health records.

Once the application has been submitted, applicants must wait for approval before they can purchase or possess any firearms. Depending on the state, this process can take anywhere from two weeks up to several months before approval is granted. In some states, applicants may also be required to submit fingerprints or undergo additional background checks before they are approved for Firearms Certification.

The cost of obtaining Firearms Certification varies by state but typically ranges between $50-$100 depending on the type of license being applied for. Additional fees may apply if fingerprints are required or if additional background checks are necessary.

2. Emergency Vehicle Operations Certification

Emergency Vehicle Operations Certification (EVOC) is a certification that is required for many emergency personnel who operate vehicles in their line of work. This certification is designed to give operators the necessary skills and knowledge to safely operate emergency vehicles in an effective manner.

The EVOC course typically takes two days to complete and consists of both classroom instruction and practical driving exercises. The classroom portion covers topics such as vehicle dynamics, safe driving practices, accident prevention, and legal considerations. During the practical exercises, participants will learn how to safely maneuver an emergency vehicle under various conditions, including high speed maneuvers, quick stops, and evasive action.

In order to receive an EVOC certification, individuals must successfully complete the course with a passing grade. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $200 - $400 USD.

To find a provider offering EVOC courses near you, you can search online or contact your local fire department or police station for more information.

3. Defensive Tactics Certification

Defensive Tactics Certification is a certification program that provides training and education in the use of defensive tactics for law enforcement officers. It is designed to teach officers how to protect themselves and others from physical harm, while also teaching them how to properly restrain suspects. The program covers topics such as arrest control techniques, handcuffing procedures, use of force, and more.

The length of the Defensive Tactics Certification program varies depending on the specific agency or organization offering it. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from one week to several months to complete the program. Some agencies may require additional training or certifications beyond the basic Defensive Tactics Certification.

To get certified in Defensive Tactics, an individual must typically complete a course offered by an accredited institution or agency. Depending on the specific organization offering the course, there may be a fee associated with taking the class. Additionally, some organizations may require applicants to pass a written exam or have prior experience in law enforcement before they are eligible for certification.

The cost of Defensive Tactics Certification depends on the organization offering it and any additional requirements they may have for applicants. Generally speaking, courses can range anywhere from $50-$500 depending on the length and complexity of the program.

4. First Aid/CPR Certification

First Aid/CPR Certification is a certification that shows an individual has been trained in providing basic life support and first aid care. This certification is typically obtained through a training course or program, which can be either online or in-person. The length of the course varies depending on the type of certification desired, but generally takes anywhere from 2-8 hours to complete.

To obtain First Aid/CPR Certification, individuals must first find a certified instructor or program to take the course from. Depending on the provider and location, costs for the course may vary; however, most courses range from $50-$200. After completing the course and passing any necessary tests or exams, individuals will receive their certification card which is valid for two years before needing to be renewed.

5. Report Writing Certification

Report Writing Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s ability to create effective and accurate reports. It is designed for professionals who need to write reports in their daily work, such as managers, analysts, and other business professionals.

The Report Writing Certification program typically takes between 8-10 hours to complete. It consists of a series of online courses that cover topics such as report structure, writing techniques, data analysis, and presentation skills. The courses are designed to help individuals develop the skills necessary to write effective reports quickly and accurately.

To get the Report Writing Certification, individuals must first complete all of the required coursework and then pass an exam. The exam tests knowledge of the material covered in the courses as well as practical application of report writing techniques. Once passed, individuals will receive their certification from the provider offering the program.

The cost of Report Writing Certification varies depending on the provider offering it. Generally speaking, most programs cost around $500-$1000 USD for all materials and exams needed for completion.

6. Crime Scene Investigation Certification

Crime Scene Investigation Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and experience in crime scene investigation. It is awarded by the International Association for Identification (IAI) and is recognized as a standard of excellence in the field of crime scene investigation.

The certification process involves completing a series of courses, passing an examination, and submitting evidence of experience in the field. The certification is valid for five years, after which time recertification is required.

To get certified, applicants must have at least two years of full-time experience in crime scene investigation or related fields such as forensic science or law enforcement. They must also complete a minimum of 40 hours of continuing education credits during their five-year certification period.

The cost to become certified varies depending on the courses taken and other fees associated with the application process. Generally speaking, the total cost can range from $500 to $1,000 USD.

7. Interview and Interrogation Techniques Certification

Interview and Interrogation Techniques Certification is a professional certification that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to conduct effective interviews and interrogations. The certification is offered by the American College of Forensic Examiners International (ACFEI).

The certification program consists of an online course and a written exam. The online course covers topics such as interviewing techniques, interrogation strategies, legal considerations, and ethical considerations. It also provides case studies to help students understand how to apply the principles they learn in real-world scenarios. The written exam tests the student’s understanding of the material covered in the online course.

To obtain this certification, students must complete the online course and pass the written exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost for the online course is $249 USD, while the cost for taking the exam is $99 USD. The entire process typically takes about 6 weeks from start to finish.

8. Patrol Procedures Certification

Patrol Procedures Certification is a certification that is designed to help law enforcement officers understand the basic principles of patrol procedures. This certification is typically offered by police academies, or other organizations that specialize in providing training for law enforcement personnel.

The length of the Patrol Procedures Certification course varies depending on the organization offering it, but it generally takes between two and four weeks to complete. The course includes topics such as patrol operations, traffic laws, criminal law, search and seizure, and use of force.

To get Patrol Procedures Certification, individuals must first meet certain requirements set by their local police academy or organization offering the course. These requirements may include passing a written exam and completing an approved training program. Once these requirements are met, individuals can apply for the certification and take the necessary exams to become certified.

The cost of Patrol Procedures Certification varies depending on the organization offering it, but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD.

9. Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) Certification

Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) Certification is a program designed to help law enforcement officers identify individuals who are under the influence of drugs other than, or in addition to, alcohol. The DRE program is based on scientific principles and standardized field sobriety tests (SFSTs). It consists of 12 steps that allow an officer to determine whether a person is impaired by drugs.

The process of becoming a certified Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) involves completing 72 hours of classroom training, 16 hours of hands-on training, and passing a written exam. The classroom portion covers topics such as drug recognition techniques, physiology and pharmacology of drugs, legal issues related to drug recognition, and SFSTs. The hands-on portion includes practical scenarios where officers must apply their knowledge in real-world situations. After completing the classroom and hands-on portions, officers must pass a written exam that covers the material from both components.

The cost for the certification varies depending on the state or agency providing it. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $1,000-$2,500 for all three components combined.

In order to become certified as a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE), an individual must complete all three components: classroom training, hands-on training, and passing the written exam. This process typically takes around 6-8 weeks depending on the availability of courses in your area.

10. Use of Force and Civil Liability Certification

Use of Force and Civil Liability Certification is a certification program designed to provide law enforcement officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to use force appropriately and lawfully. The certification is offered by the International Law Enforcement Educators and Trainers Association (ILEETA) in cooperation with the National Institute of Justice (NIJ).

The program consists of a two-day course that covers topics such as: legal considerations when using force, types of force, defensive tactics, use of firearms, civil liability issues, and other related topics. The course also includes hands-on training sessions in which participants practice various techniques for controlling suspects.

The certification typically takes two days to complete. It can be taken online or in person at an ILEETA training center. The cost for the course varies depending on the location and format chosen. Generally speaking, online courses are less expensive than in-person courses.

In order to get certified, participants must pass a written test at the end of the course. After successful completion of the test, participants will receive their Use of Force and Civil Liability Certification from ILEETA.

Do You Really Need a Deputy Sheriff Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual. A Deputy Sheriff Certificate is a certification that a person has completed an approved training program and has passed an exam, which certifies them as a law enforcement officer in the state where they live. In some states, it is required for anyone who wishes to become a deputy sheriff. However, if you are not interested in becoming a deputy sheriff, then you may not need this certificate.

If you are considering becoming a police officer or any other type of law enforcement officer, then obtaining your Deputy Sheriff Certificate can be beneficial. Having this certificate allows you to demonstrate your commitment to public safety by showing that you have taken the time and effort to gain the knowledge necessary for being an effective law enforcement officer. It also provides assurance to potential employers that you have been properly trained and certified as a competent law enforcement officer.

In addition, having your Deputy Sheriff Certificate may open up more job opportunities in law enforcement and allow you to command higher salaries than those without such certification. Furthermore, possessing this certificate may give you access to specialized training programs that would otherwise be unavailable to those without it.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Deputy Sheriff Certificate depends on what type of career path in law enforcement you wish to pursue and what kind of position you desire within that field. If you are serious about pursuing a career in law enforcement and want the best chances of success, then obtaining your Deputy Sheriff Certificate can be an invaluable asset.

Related: Deputy Sheriff Resume Examples

FAQs About Deputy Sheriff Certifications

1. What is a Deputy Sheriff Certification?

Answer: A Deputy Sheriff Certification is a professional designation that certifies an individual as having the necessary qualifications and training to serve as a deputy sheriff in their jurisdiction.

2. How do I become certified as a Deputy Sheriff?

Answer: To become certified as a Deputy Sheriff, you must complete the necessary training and pass an exam administered by your state's law enforcement agency. You may also need to pass background checks, psychological evaluations, and drug tests.

3. Is there an age requirement for Deputy Sheriff Certification?

Answer: Yes, most states require that applicants be at least 21 years of age in order to obtain certification as a Deputy Sheriff. However, some states may have different requirements so it’s best to check with your state's law enforcement agency for specific requirements.

4. How long does it take to get certified as a Deputy Sheriff?

Answer: The amount of time required to become certified will depend on the individual's experience and training level. Generally, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete all of the necessary steps for certification.

5. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my Deputy Sheriff Certification?

Answer: Yes, most states require that deputies maintain their certification through continuing education courses or other activities approved by the state's law enforcement agency. Check with your local agency for specific requirements in your area.