Requires completion of the first police training academy, if selected. Must be at least 20.5 years old at the time of application and at the time of. Is required to carry and use firearms in the course of service as a sworn police officer. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships. Must be a U.S. citizen to be a Texas sworn agent. Lateral Entrants: For officers interested in the Lateral Entry Program, the following. Non-certified officer candidates must participate in a Florida Criminal Justice Entry Level training program (Police Academy) selected by the department. Communicate with management/supervisory staff during emergency response and critical incidents; inspect and maintain the police vehicles assigned to him, the uniform,. No, if you are hired as a police officer, the city will pay your academy and you will also receive the full salary of the police officers during the academy training.