Minimum Age

Age

     ✔ Must be at least 19 to apply and 20 by academy graduation.

Education

     ✔ High school diploma or GED.

Citizenship

     ✔ U.S. citizenship required.

     ✔ Must have or be able to get a valid NC driver’s license.

Background

     ✔ Strong moral character is essential.

     ✔ All applicants undergo a thorough background check.

     ✔ Most disqualifications are due to dishonesty—be truthful!

Salary & Incentives

Police Officer Trainee

• High School Diploma: $50,264
• Associate’s Degree: $52,777
• Bachelor’s Degree: $55,416

Police Officer (Post-Academy)

• High School Diploma: $52,777
• Associate’s Degree: $55,416
• Bachelor’s Degree: $58,187

✔ $5,000 sign-on bonus

✔ +5% pay increase for military experience after academy

Lateral Officers

• Up to $76,130 starting pay (based on experience, education, and military service)
• ✔ $10,000 sign-on bonus for in-state lateral hires

Employee Benefits

WSPD offers a full benefits package—including health insurance, education assistance, competitive retirement plans, paid parental leave, a take home car policy, and more. We’re committed to supporting you on and off the job.

Hiring Process

All decisions are made by the Chief’s Office. Applicants may be disqualified at any stage. The process takes 2–4 months—submit materials promptly. Professional staff follow the same steps, minus the reading test and POPAT.