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Noncertified Law Enforcement Application Process

Step-by-step process for noncertified applicants

  • Complete a State of Florida application and an FWC supplemental application at the People First website.
  • Pass the Basic Abilities Test (known as BAT, FBAT or CJBAT). The BAT test is designed to determine an applicant's ability to pass the Basic Recruit Curriculum.
    • A candidate classified as a veteran, as defined in section 1.​01(14), Florida ​Statute​, or holds an associate degree or higher from an accredited college or university is not required to take the BAT.
  • Successfully complete:
    • Physical Abilities Test.
    • Oral interview by a review panel at the FWC Law Enforcement Training Center, which is located at the Florida Public Safety Institute near Tallahassee.
    • Background investigation, if applicant is selected by the oral review panel.
    • Vision and psychological evaluation.
    • Physical exam, including a seven-panel drug screening.
  • Selected applicants are offered employment and enrolled at the FWC Law Enforcement Training Center for the basic recruit law enforcement training. The basic recruit academy lasts about 22 weeks and housing is provided at the academy dormitory.
  • Recruits who completed the basic law enforcement training at the FWC Law Enforcement Training Center or regional academies must complete the FWC specific training, which lasts up to 10 weeks. This specialized training includes:
    • Fish and wildlife conservation laws
    • Land navigation & GPS
    • Federal fisheries law enforcement
    • Species identification (marine and wildlife)
    • Vessel accident investigation
    • Water safety survival
    • Man-tracking
    • Commercial fishing
    • Vessel operation
  • Officers who completed the FWC specific training report to their new assignment location and must participate in a 16-week Field Training Officer Program to learn more about the requirements of conservation law enforcement.
  • Upon successful completion of the Field Training Officer Program, approval is given to carry out the daily duties of an FWC law enforcement officer.