Auxiliary Police Officer

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Who are the volunteer auxiliary police?

The NYPD's auxiliary police program is the largest auxiliary police program in the United States, with thousands volunteer officers contributing more than one million hours of public service each year. Auxiliary officers are trained to observe and report conditions requiring the services of the regular police. Whenever possible, they assist in non-enforcement and non-hazardous duties.

They are civic-minded men and women who volunteer to assist their local police precincts, housing police service areas, and transit districts by serving as the "eyes and ears" of the neighborhood through foot, vehicle, and bicycle patrols.

Duties of an auxiliary police officer

The following are some ways that the auxiliary police assist the Police Department:

• Patrol housing developments, residential, and commercial areas
• Patrol subway entrances and stations
• Maintain order at parades, festivals, street fairs, and other special events
• Patrol houses of worship
• Assist in crime prevention activities
• Perform traffic control at motor vehicle accidents and fire scenes
• Perform various other non-enforcement duties

Training

As part of the auxiliary police training course, candidates are trained in self-defense tactics, CPR and first aid, patrol techniques, the New York State Penal Law, and much more.

A written and physical exam is given at the end of training.

Career

The auxiliary program is a great opportunity to get an up-close look at law enforcement. For some, it is a stepping stone to a great career in the NYPD. For others, the auxiliary program provides an opportunity to give back to the community while pursuing other careers.

For those continuing their education, some colleges grant credit for training received in the auxiliary program.

Employment requirements

Auxiliary police officers must:

• Be at least 17 years of age
• Be in good health
• Have a good moral character
• Pass a background investigation
• Comply with NYPD's zero tolerance drug policy
• Speak, read, and write English
• Be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or authorized to work in the United States
• Live in one of the five boroughs of New York City or in one of the six surrounding counties (Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland, Orange, or Putnam) and work in New York City
• Possess a valid New York State driver's license or New York State identification card

How to apply

Sign up here to receive more information about a career as an Auxiliary Police Officer.

To speak with an auxiliary police recruitment officer, please call 212-AUX-1000 or 212-289-1000; or visit your local precinct, housing police service area, or transit district and ask for the auxiliary police coordinator.