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Laterals

If you’re an experienced law enforcement professional looking to continue your career with the Carlsbad Police Department, we welcome your interest in joining our team as a lateral officer.

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Eligibility Requirements

To qualify as a lateral applicant with our department, you must:

  • Possess a valid California POST Basic Certificate.

  • Have completed a POST-approved Field Training Program.

  • If not currently employed with a law enforcement agency, you must have worked for a California police department within the past three years or successfully complete the POST recertification course prior to employment.

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Out-of-State Laterals

Officers currently or previously certified in another state may apply to join the Carlsbad Police Department as a lateral officer. To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Hold current and active POST (or equivalent) certification in good standing in their state of origin

  • Have a minimum of two years of full-time, sworn law enforcement experience

  • Be in good standing with their current or most recent agency (no unresolved administrative issues or pending investigations)

  • Meet California POST medical, psychological, and background standards

  • Submit fingerprints for a criminal history check

  • Successfully complete a department orientation and field training program

 

What We Provide:

  • Assistance with California POST reciprocity or equivalency

  • Guidance through the application and hiring process

  • Access to all required training upon arrival, including department policies, field training, and any mandated POST classes

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Lateral Hiring Process

Once you meet the minimum requirements, you may be invited to participate in our selection process, which includes:

  • Oral interview

  • Comprehensive background investigation, including:

    • Polygraph examination

    • Criminal history check

    • Credit check

    • Driving history check

  • Psychological evaluation

  • Medical examination

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All lateral applicants are required to complete a Personal History Statement at the beginning of the background process.

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Apply Now

Check out our current job openings.

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