How old is too old.

[pbchief2]

I've spent the last 4-5 years hoping the Surveying Profession would come back. Now I'm deciding on a new career. So to the question, is 36-37 too old to try and enter Law Enforcement. Right now it's that or Nursing. I had wanted to be a LEO since I was 8-9 and gave up a CHP Academy appointment at 21. Nursing just seems like a good idea. I'm thinking Florida. I'm not asking what the age limit is for a particular agency. Just personal beliefs from your experience.

[CaptMike]

that is a good age to start as long as you are physically able to complete the academy. We get lots of retired military guys that started at 18 and did their 20 years and now are startng the second career. Although, nursing pays a heck of alot better in the long run if you have your RN. I see how much my father In law and mother in law make as nurses and I say to myself that I got into the wrong business. Nursing is one of the best jobs with growth potential for the next 20 years because all the baby boomers are at that point of needing more medical care. I love being a LEO but I sure won't be rich doing it. Good luck.

[Ron-Solo]

As you get older, LE takes a harsh toll on your body. If you have a dream, live it, but know the consequences.

Getting a nursing degree is great. My daughter is currently in nursing school.

If you are not sure, I'd say go to nursing school and then become a reserve officer with your local agency. Best of both worlds, IMO.

Either choice is good, depending on what you want.

[mixicus]

It totally depends on you. Most of the 'older' 35+ year old guys in my class made it through the academy. They had taken the time to prep themselves physically (mostly ex-mil). Whereas the majority of drops/injuries were the unprepared early to mid 20-somethings. The a greater portion of the older guys have made a concious, educated decision to enter the profession often leaving another. Whereas a 23 year old may not have fully explored the ramifications. In the career, there something to be said for a guy that's been talking to people for 15 more years than a 22 year old. There can be a maturity level and even-keel-ness that come with age (mileage my vary).

Now for the general down sides. An older guy may not have as many miles left on the knees and back. Patrol can take it's toll. But you can compensate by training. Also, beng in your 30's knocking on 40, you may have other considerations that could put stressors on you such as family. Rmemeber you are going to be pulling weekend nights for the next several years. There's goiing to be a lot of holidays, birthdays and family events that get missed. Make sure your family understands this and is suppportive.

If LE is your dream...go for it!

[Marty33]

I started when I was 33, and its been great. Best decision I ever made. If it is your dream , go for it!

[veeklog]

As you get older, LE takes a harsh toll on your body. If you have a dream, live it, but know the consequences.

Getting a nursing degree is great. My daughter is currently in nursing school.

If you are not sure, I'd say go to nursing school and then become a reserve officer with your local agency. Best of both worlds, IMO.

Either choice is good, depending on what you want.

Ron Solo, you are so right about LE taking a harsh toll on your body! I started at 25, and am 39 years old. I stay in very good shape because I train 6 days a week. But the sleepless nights, the call outs,all the gear we wear around our waists and upper body, and general abuse our bodies takes amazes me! I have been lucky that the only serious injury I sustained on the job was an ACL tear and subsequent reconstruction and rehab. A lot of my friend's have sustained worse injuries, and unfortunately, a close friend is getting medically retired after two back surgeries.

My advice to all new cops out there is to please stay in shape! Trust me, I learned the hard way that you can sustain a serious injury because you aren't in shape.

[9mmepiphany]

If you feel LE is a calling...meaning you'd do the same job for a lot less then they are willing to pay you...go that route. That is what I did and knew it was time to get out when I started feeling that they weren't paying me enough. But there is a high amusement factor too...and that has to be worth something

If not, Nursing is a better way to go. There are a lot of specialties available that can meet any personal interest.

[TRICKSTER]

Go for it, but find a workout plan that keeps your body flexible. We had a couple of guys that worked out all the time, but concentrated on strength training. Every time they got in a fight, they strained a muscle in their back.

[TASK, LLC]

I would go for it if you wanted to.

I have worked with a lot of great cops who started later, including after retirement from a military career.

If you have a desire to do it, don't let anything stand in your way.

[tbhracing]

You're not too old. And consider this, nursing might pay a little batter, but they don't get 3%@50. And do not get to drive code 3 in a clinic/hospital setting. And right now, there are numerous departments hiring in California. See them here- www.indeed.com

If you're in shape, have the drive and have the desire, go for it. And if you're thinking of the fire service, please pass. There are no jobs and we are backed up on candidates.

[Notorious]

You're fine for state/local but Federal LE has a 37 year old age limit.

[CalCop]

I'm pretty sure CHP still has an age limit of 35.
CDCR does not have an age limit.
Each local agency has different limits.

[Baconator]

I'm pretty sure CHP still has an age limit of 35.
CDCR does not have an age limit.
Each local agency has different limits.

You are correct about CHP

Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 2

[9mmepiphany]

Did they lift the age to qualify for Safety Retirement...it used to be 35.

We had a couple of guys come on who were 50 or older and I remember them saying with they wouldn't be getting the 3%@50

[fullrearview]

I went through with two guys who had 11-12 years on you... They were never first physically, but also never last.