Submit your application online. If you have questions, reach out to our hiring team at 205-254-1712.

To join the Birmingham Police Department, applicants must meet the standards set by the State of Alabama, the Jefferson County Personnel Board and the department itself. Minimum qualifications: U.S. Citizen At least 19 years old High school diploma or GED Valid Alabama driver’s license Pass a Class A physical exam before appointment No felony convictions Good moral character and reputation Honorable discharge from the military (if applicable)

Protect and Serve Birmingham

Q: What is the officer selection process?

The Birmingham Police Department is dedicated to hiring the most qualified candidates. All applicants must complete each phase of the selection process, which includes a pre-employment physical fitness screening (administered by BPD), background investigation, polygraph examination, medical examination and psychological screening.

Q: What benefits does the Birmingham Police Department provide?

Officers receive a comprehensive benefits package, including full health coverage, paid parental leave, mental health support, a $1,200 annual uniform allowance and a 20-year retirement plan.

Q: What does academy training involve?

The Birmingham Police Academy provides 20–22 weeks of rigorous training totaling over 800 hours. Training covers communication skills, criminal law, tactical response and physical fitness. Candidates must pass both a written exam and a physical abilities test to meet Alabama Peace Officer Standards and Training (APOST) requirements.

Q: How physically demanding is the training?

The Physical Abilities Test includes: Pushing a car 15 feet Scaling a 6-foot fence Crawling through a 2′x2′ window Walking a 5-yard balance beam Dragging a 165-pound dummy 5 yards 22 pushups in 1 minute 25 sit-ups in 1 minute Running 1.5 miles in 15:28

Q: What happens after graduation from the Police Academy?

After graduating, recruits are sworn in and begin 16 weeks of field training under a certified Field Training Officer (FTO). This hands-on experience bridges the gap between academy training and real-world policing.

Q: What career opportunities are available?

Officers typically begin in the Patrol Division and, with experience, can advance into specialized roles such as detective, tactical unit member, crime scene technician or polygraph examiner.

It’s more than a job. It’s a calling. Join the Birmingham Police Department to protect and serve a city that’s counting on you.

Neighborhoods that need patrolling.
Families that need protecting.
Schools and businesses that need a hero to step up.

With elite pay, strong benefits and opportunities to rise, this is your chance to build a career with purpose. Step up. Make a real difference.

Apply Now

About Us

The Birmingham Police Department is dedicated to building a safe, welcoming community. Through professional training, strong leadership and a commitment to service, we empower our officers to lead with integrity and purpose. Covering over 160 square miles, we proudly protect and serve Birmingham’s neighborhoods, schools, parks and businesses.

Start Your Journey

Why Join Us

Apply Now

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01 of 04

Competitive Pay

Earn a starting salary of $50,000+ with opportunities for growth.

$58,094.40, high school/GED
$61,006.40, associate’s degree
$64,043.20, bachelor’s degree

02 of 04

Great Benefits

Your well-being is our priority. Enjoy full health coverage, paid parental leave, a 20-year retirement plan and more.

03 of 04

Advancement Opportunities

Grow your career with specialized roles in investigations, K9 units and tactical operations.

04 of 04

Sign-On Bonus

Kick off your career with a $10,000 sign-on bonus! First $5,000 is awarded upon graduation, and the remaining is given after completing field training.

01 of 04

Competitive Pay

Earn a starting salary of $50,000+ with opportunities for growth.

$58,094.40, high school/GED
$61,006.40, associate’s degree
$64,043.20, bachelor’s degree

02 of 04

Great Benefits

Your well-being is our priority. Enjoy full health coverage, paid parental leave, a 20-year retirement plan and more.

03 of 04

Advancement Opportunities

Grow your career with specialized roles in investigations, K9 units and tactical operations.

04 of 04

Sign-On Bonus

Kick off your career with a $10,000 sign-on bonus! First $5,000 is awarded upon graduation, and the remaining is given after completing field training.

At the Birmingham Police Department, we build careers that make a difference. Get Locked-In. Serve proudly.

Deputy Chief Mauldin

Our Recruitment Process

Swipe or Scroll

01 Apply

Applying is easy. Submit your application online and take the first step toward a meaningful career.

02 Train

Earn while you learn. Receive full pay during academy training while gaining confidence, skills and hands-on experience.

03 Serve

Make a difference in your community daily. Protect neighborhoods, respond to emergencies and serve with purpose.

01 Apply

Applying is easy. Submit your application online and take the first step toward a meaningful career.

02 Train

Earn while you learn. Receive full pay during academy training while gaining confidence, skills and hands-on experience.

03 Serve

Make a difference in your community daily. Protect neighborhoods, respond to emergencies and serve with purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply?

Who can apply?

What is the officer selection process?

What benefits does the Birmingham Police Department provide?

What does academy training involve?

How physically demanding is the training?

What happens after graduation from the Police Academy?

What career opportunities are available?

Contact Us

Have questions? Reach out.

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