The OACP Certificate has specific requirements candidates must meet before beginning the certification process. These requirements ensure candidates possess the basic qualifications necessary for police work in Ontario.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
Age requirement: Candidates must be at least 18 years old. There is no upper age limit for applying.
Citizenship requirement: Candidates must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada.
Education requirement: Candidates must have successfully completed at least four years of secondary school education or its equivalent. If education was completed outside Ontario, official proof of equivalency from the Ontario Ministry of Education is required. Completing a two or three-year community college program satisfies the educational equivalence even without Grade 12 completion.
Driver's license requirement: Candidates must possess a valid Ontario driver's license with no more than six accumulated demerit points and full driving privileges.
Physical, Character, and Technical Requirements
Physical requirements: Candidates must meet minimum hearing and vision standards verified through examinations by audiologists and optometrists as part of the Part A documentation process.
Character requirements: Candidates must be of good moral character and habits, demonstrating trustworthiness and integrity. Background investigations during the hiring process examine criminal history, credit, employment history, and personal references.
Technical requirements: Candidates need a computer with webcam, microphone, and reliable internet connection for the online proctored examinations.
