The OCAP certification, commonly searched as a variation of OACP certification, refers to the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police Certificate required for police constable candidates in Ontario. This certification became a crucial component of the police hiring process when the new Constable Selection System launched on January 1, 2020, replacing the previous system administered by Applicant Testing Services (ATS).
What the Certification Measures
The certification process is designed to provide police services with a standardized method of evaluating candidates before they begin the formal application process. It measures critical competencies including written communication skills essential for incident report writing, cognitive reasoning abilities for sound judgment in police situations, and personality traits associated with successful police work.
Eligibility Requirements and Recognition
Candidates must be at least 18 years old, be Canadian citizens or permanent residents, and possess a valid Ontario driver's license with no more than six demerit points. The certification involves completing documentation requirements, passing a mental abilities assessment, and completing a personality evaluation. Once obtained, the certification is recognized by police services throughout Ontario, streamlining the application process for candidates applying to multiple departments.
