Questions about Academy (Self Sponsored Candidate)

[NatetheGr8]

So (fingers crossed) I'll be attending an upcoming Academy if everything goes right. I still have to pass the PAG, PWT and etc. As the title states I have some questions so here it goes, also if there's any tips or information that benefitted you while participating the academy or during your time with a FTO would also be appreciated.

1) I'm self sponsored so I'm already paying a lot out of pocket. Is there any other equipment other than essential Peace Officer equipment that I should buy?

2 I had a Gen 4 Glock 34 that was two tone FDE Frame/ BLK Slide. Now it's a full FDE Glock 17 that has the slide cut for a RMR. Does the color matter? I'm worried since everything is suppose to uniform and about the slide itself.

3)(see 2) I also I have a stainless steel barrel and a aftermarket trigger shoe/bow, but the trigger connector is at the same trigger pull weight as a factory Glock 17. Would that present a problem?

4) Filling out the DOJ AFS form would also state that I have a Glock 34 with my current configured firearm do they go solely on the serial number? I'm worried that my firearm is basically a 17 but technically a 34.

5) If my firearm is GTG (many say it shouldn't be a problem since I'm self sponsored), What level retention should I purchase and what brand should I be looking at?

6)Recently moved my address on my CDL isn't current, but was updated in the DMV records. Do I still need to to get a new CDL?

7) How long does the livescan fingerprinting take? I believe I have to submit it once it arrives in the mail.

8)I went through a hiring process with a department about two years ago and got all the way to the background packets but was wait listed. I'm planning to reapply for the first time since being wait listed to the same department. Would my enlistment in the Academy present an issue for employment?

I have a few more questions but they pertain to financial aid if I don't get a chance to call the reps tomorrow I'll post them tomorrow night until I'm off this week in which point I can drive down and ask FTF.

Thanks,

Nate

[nickbackouris]

Which academy are you hoping for?

[CBR_rider]

So (fingers crossed) I'll be attending an upcoming Academy if everything goes right. I still have to pass the PAG, PWT and etc. As the title states I have some questions so here it goes, also if there's any tips or information that benefitted you while participating the academy or during your time with a FTO would also be appreciated.

1) I'm self sponsored so I'm already paying a lot out of pocket. Is there any other equipment other than essential Peace Officer equipment that I should buy?

An extra pair of boots and an extra set of uniform(s)

2 I had a Gen 4 Glock 34 that was two tone FDE Frame/ BLK Slide. Now it's a full FDE Glock 17 that has the slide cut for a RMR. Does the color matter? I'm worried since everything is suppose to uniform and about the slide itself.

I wouldn't really want anything to make me "stand out;" but long as the academy itself doesn't care then no. If they ask why, I would just tell them the truth which appears to be that you had enough money to purchase one handgun to familiarize yourself with and you cannot afford another at this time for the academy due to all the other costs.

3)(see 2) I also I have a stainless steel barrel and a aftermarket trigger shoe/bow, but the trigger connector is at the same trigger pull weight as a factory Glock 17. Would that present a problem?

see above

4) Filling out the DOJ AFS form would also state that I have a Glock 34 with my current configured firearm do they go solely on the serial number? I'm worried that my firearm is basically a 17 but technically a 34.

Tell them its a G34; I don't think they are really going to care...

5) If my firearm is GTG (many say it shouldn't be a problem since I'm self sponsored), What level retention should I purchase and what brand should I be looking at?

Whatever the academy requires/recommends

6)Recently moved my address on my CDL isn't current, but was updated in the DMV records. Do I still need to to get a new CDL?

DMV should have given you one of the pieces of paper with your new address on it. Keep that with your CDL

7) How long does the livescan fingerprinting take? I believe I have to submit it once it arrives in the mail.

Don't remember

8)I went through a hiring process with a department about two years ago and got all the way to the background packets but was wait listed. I'm planning to reapply for the first time since being wait listed to the same department. Would my enlistment in the Academy present an issue for employment?

Does the agency have their own academy? Then maybe; then again they may not care if they hire you, you are willing to drop out of your current academy, and they then pay for your to go to theirs

I have a few more questions but they pertain to financial aid if I don't get a chance to call the reps tomorrow I'll post them tomorrow night until I'm off this week in which point I can drive down and ask FTF.

Thanks,

Nate

See above

[1911su16b870]

+1 two pairs of boots both shined. Two pairs of running shoes that fit you, and you should be running now. You should have a suit/shoes - buisness atire clean and ready to go.

Re: firearms, the academy will have a list of what guns they allow in the academy for self sponsored cadets. IMO, you should run a stock black one from that list.

Live scan and other stuff needs to be knocked out (physical etc.) as soon as you can. Go to the academy's orientation and read/memorize their manual and knock out the required papers for day one.

Good luck...your mindset is what is important...never give up/quit.

[NatetheGr8]

See above

Thanks for your reply! I have to also provide a 3 year DMV Abstract that I request at a DMV office. I noticed that in the link on the Academy website it redirects me to a different DMV office. It states at the bottom of the site that if I have a driver license related service refer to the field offices link.

Here's the link, if you scroll down you'll see what I mean.

https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/fo/fotocds

Also on the academy site it says request from a office but I did a quick search online for 3 year DMV abstract and I end up finding a online Driver records request. Are they asking me to go down to a DMV office or is the online request sufficient?

Another question, In regards to the DOJ livescan it says to go to a law enforcement facility to avoid delays any advice on where to go I'm roughly in the SSF area? Also if anyone remembers how long do they usually take till I receive them? I need it by pretty much the 3rd week of September. The also noted that the DOJ offers no expedited service (go figure). Also can I go to a UPS store instead of a law enforcement facility?

[NatetheGr8]

+1 two pairs of boots both shined. Two pairs of running shoes that fit you, and you should be running now. You should have a suit/shoes - buisness atire clean and ready to go.

Re: firearms, the academy will have a list of what guns they allow in the academy for self sponsored cadets. IMO, you should run a stock black one from that list.

Live scan and other stuff needs to be knocked out (physical etc.) as soon as you can. Go to the academy's orientation and read/memorize their manual and knock out the required papers for day one.

Good luck...your mindset is what is important...never give up/quit.

Thanks! Great advice! As for the firearm, I don't think it's possible to run a stock black one because I'd have to buy a new firearm. I have a stock Gen 4 Glock 19 that is full FDE. The only all black firearm would be my FNS 9L that only has no holster options that are made for duty, in regards to retention (simple kydex). Not to mention the slide is the same size as the Glock 34 and same trigger weight as well. The intent of the firearms expected uses are for competitions not for duty. So this is why the firearm I plan on using is the one I previously mentioned. The list mentions a Glock 17 but shows a black model Gen 3 and a few others.

[CBR_rider]

I am pretty sure you don't need to go to a Driver's Safety Field Office to request a copy of your DMV history/abstract. Maybe call the academy to be sure; I don't know off-hand if there is a difference between the online request/the one you get in person.

[NatetheGr8]

I am pretty sure you don't need to go to a Driver's Safety Field Office to request a copy of your DMV history/abstract. Maybe call the academy to be sure; I don't know off-hand if there is a difference between the online request/the one you get in person.

Thanks, in regards to the other questions I asked in my reply do have any advice?

[CBR_rider]

Thanks, in regards to the other questions I asked in my reply do have any advice?

In that post? Not sure; I think you can get a Livescan done anywhere that offers the service... I fortunately haven't had to worry about any of that crap for a long, long time so I am not much use with those specifics. And how things are done 'round these parts may not be acceptable to your academy; I would hate to steer you wrong.

[NatetheGr8]

In that post? Not sure; I think you can get a Livescan done anywhere that offers the service... I fortunately haven't had to worry about any of that crap for a long, long time so I am not much use with those specifics. And how things are done 'round these parts may not be acceptable to your academy; I would hate to steer you wrong.

No worries you helped and gave great advice that's all I could of ever asked for thanks!

[BigStiCK]

Nate, I know you're gearing up for the self sponsor thing, but just want to throw this out there. The CHP is hiring & they pay you to attend, plus provide all your gear. If you have any Q's, feel free to ask away.

[NatetheGr8]

Nate, I know you're gearing up for the self sponsor thing, but just want to throw this out there. The CHP is hiring & they pay you to attend, plus provide all your gear. If you have any Q's, feel free to ask away.

Thanks. Well the questions I really have are the same one being asked right now pre-academy stuff. When I searched 3 year DMV abstract I found a link that had driver records request which I assumed is the same thing. I found some info on the FAQ's that the request I get in person is more official then the one I get online. I can understand that, because that's kind of the same deal with the whole change of address thing I can print the notice online but the DMV print out I get at the DMV in person has the CA seal.

Also the livescan stuff as well.

I applied for CHP once before didn't get to far to be honest. I failed the physical agility test I was exhausted the morning of, running on fumes and barely got sleep the night before due to my job that kept me on duty for an extra 4hrs. Not to mention the drive all the way to Suisun from SF was definitely difficult under those conditions. Not at all an excuse but just want to address that I didn't execute my intentions properly like how I did when I applied for another department in which I got all the way to the bacground packet.

Is the academy and testing still in Suisun?

It's still a in house academy correct? In which recruits live on campus and train on campus?

Is there time to go back to my area? Leisure or a approved time of leave or absence from the academy?

What exactly is a day like being a CHP officer? I've heard that you might start your shift at a one place and end it at another, is that true? If so how do you get back to the place where you started possibly where your personal vehicle is?

Are you assigned to a district? I've seen districts in CA maps like the one on the BLM websites and they're huge how do you work that area?

[1911su16b870]

... The list mentions a Glock 17 but shows a black model Gen 3 and a few others.

Buy this or another one on the list. Part of the academy is following instructions.

ETA: you could bring the question up to the tactical staff at orientation for a decision...prior to academy start.

[NatetheGr8]

Buy this or another one on the list. Part of the academy is following instructions.

ETA: you could bring the question up to the tactical staff at orientation for a decision...prior to academy start.

They're shown as samples of academy approved firearms include, but are not limited to in bold letter.

Stupid question but when is orientation?

[ahpd]

Based on your questions, you would be better off applying directly to several departments to see if you can get hired. Self-sponsor is going to be a waste of money.