What is an Auxiliary Police Officer?

Auxiliary police officers are a special unit within a police force. They are usually unpaid volunteers that act as the reserve for the police service they are affiliated with. Auxiliary officers serve as additional “eyes and ears” of the police force, and are called into action in times of emergency, to assist in crowd control, traffic control, and to work at special events. Overall, auxiliary officers help improve the police force’s ability to respond to civilian needs.

In New York City, the NYPD Auxiliary Police is comprised of unpaid and unarmed volunteer officers. They patrol on foot, in police cars, and on bicycle. In New York, auxiliary police officers undergo a 16-week Auxiliary Police Basic Training Course. To be eligible for this program, aspiring officers need to be at least 17 years of age, in good health, and of good character. They also need to be able to pass a drug and alcohol test and have a clear criminal record. Qualifications will vary, however, between different police departments and different states.

How can this help my career?

By volunteering as an auxiliary police officer, you will get valuable hands on experience that can help you land your dream job after you graduate. Hiring police departments often prefer candidates who have already had some experience in law enforcement. The knowledge you will gain through an auxiliary policing program could be just what you need to have an edge over everyone else who is looking for work.