The DPS offers a shortened one-week selection process for those applicants who are applying from out of state or are in the military. All of the steps in the 10-step selection process, with the exception of the DPS Basic Training Academy are completed within this one-week testing time period. Applicants report on a Sunday for the Physical Fitness Assessment and P.O.S.T. written exam testings, and most are ready to return home by Wednesday or Thursday of that same week with the rest of the testings and evaluations completed.
Out-of-state law enforcement officers are encouraged to apply and if hired, will be required to attend the DPS Basic Training Academy.
Applicants for this special session will apply during an open Academy application window.
Email us if you have any further questions.
Veteran Preference Points
Thank you for your service.
Preference for eligible veterans will be considered during the selection process in accordance with applicable provisions of the Code of Iowa.
To qualify for veteran's points, you must have served during one of the following periods:
- Persian Gulf/Iraq Conflict - August 2, 1990 through (end date yet to be determined by Congress)
- Panama Service - December 20, 1989 through January 31, 1990
- Lebanon or Granada Service - August 24, 1982 through July 31, 1984
- Vietnam Conflict - February 28, 1961 through May 7, 1975
Iowa law requires that 5% be added to the score in a qualifying exam and that an additional 5% be added if the veteran has a qualifying disability. The purpose of the Veteran Preference is to assign eligible applicant points in the scoring phase of the State's hiring processes. The program is not intended to guarantee a veteran a job, but rather, to allow them to interview for consideration on their own merits.
Proof of eligibility for points must be provided in the form of a certified photocopy of a DD214 Form (Armed Forces Report of Transfer or Discharge)
or other official document containing dates of service or a listing of service medals and campaign badges.
DPS IS A HOME BASE IOWA EMPLOYER
DPS recognizes that the strong skill sets veterans acquire while in the military are of great value and highly transferable to both peace officer and civilian positions within the Department. Through Home Base Iowa, DPS is afforded the opportunity to connect with those veterans who want to make Iowa their home. Working together, Home Base Iowa and DPS can make veteran's employment aspirations become a reality.
Email us if you have any further questions.