The following requirements are intended to assure the Commission that Field Training officers meet minimal qualifications as to training and experience as authorized in Section 1014 of the Regulations. The actual evaluation and selection of the field training officers will remain the responsibility of the department head. The department head is ultimately responsible for the quality of the instruction and training provided.

Requirements

1. Law Enforcement Experience

   A minimum of three years of experience in law enforcement is required.

2. Education

   Possession of not less than the General Certificate.

3. Training

   New applicants for field training officer certification will have completed a minimum of 32 hours of Commission approved classroom instruction including, but not limited to, the following topics:

   1. Communications

   2. Techniques of Instruction

   3. Evaluation of Training

   4. Trainee Motivation and Counseling

   5. Complete review of the forms and their purpose in the Commission on Law Enforcement Standards and Training "Field Training Manual for Law Enforcement Recruits".
      
      

4. Recommendations
   1. Applications for field training officer certification will be endorsed by the department head on Form F-12.

   2. It is the recommendation, but not required, of the Commission that any law enforcement unit employing twenty (20) or more officers participate in the Field Training Program for evaluation by the Department and the Commission.

   3. The Commission recommends the following training to all departments utilizing the Field Training Officer concept:
      1. The Basic Course at a certified police training facility.

      2. The twelve-week Field Training Officer Program.

      3. At least two additional weeks of an Advanced Basic Course consisting of classes that will provide an increase in the knowledge of the recruit and refresher classes that will reinforce what he has learned in his past experience.

      4. An extensive examination.
         
         

   4. The Commission will not accept satisfactory completion of the Basic Course unless the recruit has attained at least 70% in his/her academic studies and consistently attains a passing score on the Commission approved firearms training course.
      
      

5. Validation of Certificate
   1. The field training officer's certificate shall remain valid from the date of issue, unless recalled by the department head and returned to the Commission.

   2. A field training officer certificate will be transferable should the officer change agencies.

   3. The field training officer certificate will expire if the officer is separated from law enforcement for more than six (6) months.