Eligibility & Requirements
What are the age requirements to become a Lancaster City Police Officer?
You must be at least 21 years old by the time you graduate from the police academy. Per City Code, police officers must retire when they turn 60 years old.
Do I have to live in Lancaster County?
No. Officers can live anywhere in Berks, Chester, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, or York Counties. If you do not currently live in one of these counties, you must establish residency in one of the listed counties within six (6) months of being hired.
Do I need a college degree?
A high school diploma or GED is required. College coursework or a degree is encouraged but not mandatory. Officers with college degrees receive an annual stipend.
Do I need prior law enforcement experience?
No, the Lancaster City Bureau of Police hires both entry-level officers and Act 120-certified lateral transfers.
Can I apply if I have a criminal record?
Some previous offenses will automatically disqualify you, while others are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. If you have questions, contact a recruiter to have a confidential, one-on-one conversation.
Is it okay if I have tattoos?
Generally, yes. Tattoos cannot be offensive in nature. Face or neck tattoos are not permitted, though having them removed during the hiring process is acceptable.
Application & Hiring Process
How do I apply to become a Lancaster City police officer?
Candidates can express their interest in joining our team at any time by completing an interest card online. Applications are generally accepted online twice per year, though this can vary due to the number of applicants we receive.
Does the City of Lancaster offer preference points?
Yes, up to 10 preference points are added to overall scores for the following candidates:
- U.S. Veterans (10 points)
- Lancaster City Residents (3 points)
- Bilingual Candidates (3 points)
- Lateral Transfers (3 points)
- Cadets (5 points)
- Community Service Aides (3 points)
Additional documentation or testing may be required. Contact a recruiter to learn more.
What’s included in the background investigation?
The Lancaster City Bureau of Police is proud of its extensive background investigation process. The process includes, but is not limited to, interviews, reference checks, criminal history review, driving record review, and verification of past employment.
How long does the hiring process take?
Between the active recruitment cycle, testing, background investigation, and academy, the hiring process can take upwards of a year to complete.
Salary & Benefits
What’s the starting salary for a Lancaster City police officer?
The 2026 Salary Range is $65,242-$93,203, plus health insurance, vacation days, sick time, and holidays/bonus days.
What benefits are available?
The City of Lancaster offers a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance for you and your family, vacation and paid time off, retirement savings, life insurance, a wellness program, a mentorship program, and ongoing training and professional development.
Is the Lancaster City Bureau of Police a PSLF-eligible employer?
Yes, the City of Lancaster is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligible employer. PSLF is a federal program that discharges (forgives) some student loans after making 120 qualifying payments. Learn more about PSLF.
Job Expectations
What are the primary duties of a Lancaster City Police Officer?
Officers patrol neighborhoods, respond to calls, enforce laws, conduct investigations, engage with residents, and work to maintain public safety.
What is community policing and how is it used in Lancaster?
Officers build relationships with residents, attend community events, and work collaboratively to solve long term neighborhood issues.
Training
How long is the police academy?
The police academy training is a 24-week, full-time program that provides recruits with the initial skills and information they need to successfully begin their career as a police officer.
The academy is a residential program; you attend class during the day and go home afterward. Transportation from Lancaster City is available.
Do I need to pay to attend the police academy?
No, the Lancaster City Bureau of Police pays for your academy training.
Do I get paid to attend the police academy?
Yes, you will receive your regular police officer salary while attending the academy.
Can my out-of-state police officer certification transfer?
Possibly. MPOETC may grant an Act 120 waiver depending on your credentials. Read more about PA’s Municipal Police Officer Certification.
What other initial training will I get?
After the police academy, officers have at least 12 weeks of field training with an experienced officer before they operate independently.
Career Growth
What specialized units can an officer join?
After 4 years of service, Lancaster City Bureau of Police officers can apply to join specialty units such as patrol services, K-9, bike, and community engagement.
How to promotions work?
Written and oral exams are required to be promoted to Detective, Sergeant, and Lieutenant. These exams result in a ranked list, which is used for promotions. Captains are appointed by the Chief.
How is pay determined for lateral officers?
Lateral officers are placed on the pay scale based on prior sworn experience. This affects salary only, not seniority or pension.
Additional Questions
What dictates the police officer hiring process?
The hiring process for the Lancaster City Bureau of Police is governed by the City of Lancaster Civil Service Board Rules & Regulations, as directed by § 34-5D of the Municipal Code of the City of Lancaster.
Who can I ask if I have other questions
Prospective applicants should contact a recruiter to learn more.
