Criminal Justice Institute

For information, please call Criminal Justice at 561-868-3398.

 

Sponsored Corrections & Law Enforcement Academies

Sponsored Corrections & Law Enforcement Class Schedule *

Term	Sponsoring Agency Paperwork Deadline	Mandatory Orientation	Academy Start Date
Spring 2026	March 30, 2026	April 20, 2026	May 18, 2026

 

All applications must be submitted to PSC 123 by the closing date. YOU MUST submit a valid copy of the LE BAT (if applicable) and PBSC PAT with your application.

*All dates are subject to change

 

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Self-Sponsored Law Enforcement Academy

Self-sponsored Law Enforcement Academy Schedule *

Term	Application/Personal History Questionnaire Deadline	Last Chance to take PAT Test	Mandatory Orientation	Academy Start Date
Spring 2026	Open Date: February 2, 2026 Closed Date: February 13, 2026	January 28, 2026	April 20, 2026	May 18, 2026

 

Application submission and/or successful completion of all processes do NOT guarantee acceptance into the academy.

*Note: All dates subject to change

Application Procedures

The following minimum requirements for entry into the Basic Recruit Training Academies for Law Enforcement and Corrections at Palm Beach State College have been established through the college, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission and the Region XII Training Council. These requirements apply to all individuals who are seeking to sponsor themselves in the academy.

• Be able to complete the entire academy program with the scheduled time frame.
• Applicants must be at least 19 years old for Basic Law Enforcement or 18 years old for Correctional Officer Training at the time of application, as required by FDLE. Please note that most agencies set their minimum hiring age at 21.
• Be a citizen of the United States.
• Not have been convicted of any felony or of a misdemeanor involving perjury or false statement.
• Not have received a dishonorable discharge from any of the Armed Forces of the United States.
• Be a high school graduate or its "equivalent" as the commission has defined the term by rule. Official transcripts required.

NOTE: High school and ALL college transcripts (if applicable) MUST be received/accepted by Palm Beach State College in order to be admitted into the college.

Please contact your high school (and college(s), if applicable) as soon as you start the selection process and have transcripts sent to Criminal Justice, MS #36, Palm Beach State College, 4200 Congress Ave., Lake Worth, FL 33461-4796. Transcript request and additional information. 

Any person who, after July 1, 1981, pleads guilty or nolo contendere to or is found guilty of any felony or of a misdemeanor involving perjury or a false statement is not eligible for entry into the academy, not withstanding suspension of sentence or withholding of adjudication.

Any person who has pled nolo contendere to a misdemeanor involving a false statement, prior to December 1, 1985, and has had such record sealed or expunged shall not be deemed ineligible for acceptance into the academy.

 

Application Process

STEP 1: Fill out College Admission Application

• Application can be completed online at www.pbsc.edu/admissions
• Select Program Objective CCP Law Enforcement Officer - 5600
• Corrections Officer - 5601

 

STEP 2: Order Official High School and College Transcripts 

• Transcripts should be sent to: Palm Beach State College — CJI, MS-36,
  4200 Congress Ave., Lake Worth Beach Fl., 33461

 

STEP 3: Take the Basic Abilities Test (BAT)  

• You are exempt from the Law Enforcement BAT if you have an AA degree or higher or an honorable discharge from the United States military. You must show proof.  Exemption is for Law Enforcement ONLY.  Corrections applicants MUST take and pass the COT BAT.
• Go to pearsonvue.com/fdle to schedule test at least 24 hours prior.
• Check Testing Center hours by calling 561-868-3012

 

STEP 4: Take the Physical Agility Test (PAT) - Law Enforcement & CORRECTIONS

• Register online: https://www2.registerblast.com/pbsc/Exam/List
• Download Physician's Clearance to Test Form, have it signed by your doctor and return it to PSC-123.1 or email to todaroc@pbsc.edu at least 48 hours prior, but no earlier than 3 months before the date of your test.

 

STEP 5: Upon successful completion of the BAT and PAT: 

• You will be handed the Personal History Questionnaire to be completed in full.  Leave nothing blank – use N/A where applicable.  The intake office at the Criminal Justice Institute is closed on Fridays.

 

STEP 6: Submit all Paperwork during Acceptance Week 

• A specific time period will be advertised in which all applicants must submit their application online. Monitor our web page and facebook for those dates. 
  
  

STEP 7: Once selected the applicant will continue to complete the Psychological examination, fingerprint and background check.

 

STEP 8: After completion of the above steps, the applicant and his/her file will be reviewed for acceptance into the next available requested academy program. THERE IS NO GUARANTEE OF ACCEPTANCE, EVEN IF A STUDENT MEETS ALL SELECTION CRITERIA. The Selection Center will follow the standard criteria set forth by Palm Beach College, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice Standards Training Commission as outlined in 943.13 Florida Statutes, 11B of the Florida Administrative Code, and the Region XII Training Council. 

 

The Selection Center is for prospective law enforcement and corrections officers who wish to enter the Basic Law Enforcement or Basic Corrections Academies. The Selection Center is not a hiring agency.

The Full Time Law Enforcement Academy is approximately 24 weeks, Monday through Friday 7:00am to 5:00pm OR Monday through Thursday 12:00pm - 9pm and 4 hours on Friday (times vary according to instructional guidelines). The total tuition and materials fee is approximately $4,000.00 for Florida residents. Students must provide proof of Florida residency. For out-of-state applicants, tuition is substantially higher.

The Part Time Law Enforcement Academy is approximately 33 weeks, Monday through Thursday 5:30pm to 10:00pm and Saturday, 6:00am to 5:00pm (times vary according to instructional guidelines). The total tuition and materials fee is approximately $4,000.00 for Florida residents. Students must provide proof of Florida residency. For out-of-state applicants, tuition is substantially higher.

The Corrections Academy is approximately 12 weeks, Monday through Thursday, 8:00am to 5:00pm (times vary according to instructional guidelines). The total tuition and materials fee is approximately $2,000.00 for Florida Residents. Students must provide proof of Florida residency.

Additional costs will include, but are not limited to, the cost of uniforms at approximately $500.00

*All fees are subject to change without notice.

STUDENTS APPLYING FOR CROSSOVER TRAINING, AND COMPARATIVE COMPLIANCE COURSES WILL BE SUBJECT TO SOME OR ALL PORTIONS OF THE SELECTION PROCESS DEPENDING ON THEIR EMPLOYMENT STATUS.

 

Driving History

• Must possess a valid Florida driver's license. Candidates with valid out of state licenses must obtain a Florida driver's license before they submit the application.

• Must possess an acceptable driving record, (Law Enforcement only)defined as:
  • Less than three moving traffic violations within the last two years
  • Free from driver's license suspensions for the past three (3) years.
  • Free from any convictions for criminal traffic offenses (DUI, Reckless driving) within the past five (5) years.

 

Drug Use History

1. Have not used or possessed marijuana in the one (1) year prior to applying to the academy.
2. Have not used or possessed any other illegal drugs in the three (3) years prior to applying to the academy.
3. Have not misused prescription drugs in the three (3) years prior to applying to the academy.
4. Have not sold, transported, delivered or trafficked in any illegal drugs and/or fraudulently obtained any prescription drugs.

 

Tattoos

Tattoos include any tattoo, scar, branding, mark or other permanent body art or modification deliberately placed on the body for purposes of decoration, ornamentation or adornment. Any of the following will be cause for denial for entry into the academy:

1. Tattoo(s) on the fingers, hands, neck (visible when wearing a collared shirt), face or head.
2. Tattoo(s) commonly associated with gangs, organizations or groups which advocate hate, intolerance or discrimination.
3. Tattoo(s) which depict, describe or otherwise refer to sexual conduct, acts, organs or preferences.
4. Tattoo(s) which depict, describe, or refer to intolerance of, or discrimination against any race, religion, gender or national origin.

• Pass the Basic Abilities Test (B.A.T.) for Law Enforcement (unless exempt) or Corrections. Test results are on a Pass/Fail basis.
• Complete and pass the Physical Abilities Test.

Upon acceptance to the program:

• Successfully complete a polygraph examination.
• Successfully complete a psychological examination.
• Be in good physical shape as determined by a licensed physician.
• Be drug free as determined by a 7-panel drug test.
• Pass a thorough background investigation.

After thoroughly reading the information and instructions below, you may Register for the PAT

 

Preparing for the Physical Agility Test (PAT)

All medical clearance forms must be turned in AT LEAST 48 hours prior to the test, but no earlier than 3 months before. Forms will no longer be accepted the day of testing.

The Criminal Justice Institute has adopted the single norm testing of academy applicants. This physical testing has been validated by FDLE and the Region XII Training Advisory Board.

A single norm standard is defined as follows; all persons taking the Physical Agility Test (PAT) must meet the same standards regardless of gender or age. These standards require the same level of performance regardless of age and gender (same job = same standard).

There are certain factors to remember. To begin with, be honest with yourself. If you have not exercised and prepared for this test in a safe manner, it is unrealistic to think that you would pass the PAT on test day. Criminal Justice Staff and this brochure will assist you in preparing for the exam.

This test measures both cardiovascular fitness, as well as dynamic strength. This refers to the aerobic capacity of an individual as well as their anaerobic capacity. Endurance and dynamic strength are factors for overall fitness.

 

Getting Ready

Once you register for the PAT test online, you must acquire a Physician’s Medical Clearance Form. You can also pick one up at the Criminal Justice Institute at Palm Beach State College’s Lake Worth Campus, room PSC 123. The form must be completed by a Florida Licensed Physician and returned to the CJI. This form is valid for a period of six months from the date of administration.

 

The Day of the PAT

Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled test time. This will give you a chance to adjust, complete any necessary paperwork and not feel rushed. Dress in appropriate clothes for the PAT. T-shirts, gym shorts, socks and appropriate footwear for the run are essential. No offensive logos or caricatures should appear on any outerwear. You might want to bring your own water bottle.

Prior to the exam you should hydrate well with water. Sports drinks might help after the test, but water is the most important fluid to drink prior to taking the PAT.

Caffeine should be eliminated the morning of the PAT as often it can elevate your heart and blood pressure rate.

Applicants are encouraged to avoid taking "supplements." Often, these items can have adverse physiological effects unless prescribed by a licensed physician or registered dietician.

Testing

The Physical Abilities Test is to be conducted in the following manner:

Task 1: Exit Vehicle/Enter Trunk

Attributes Measured: Eye-hand coordination, reaction time, finger dexterity and flexibility.

Task Description: Participant begins course seated in a full-size automobile, seat belt on, with hands at the 10 and 2 o’clock positions on the steering wheel. The participants will wear a pull-away flag belt around his/her waist. The trunk key is in the closed glove compartment. A revolver and a flashlight are positioned in the front center part of the trunk. The trunk is closed and locked.

Instructions:

1. On the command “go” the stopwatch is started and the participant will unfasten his/her seat belt, open the glove compartment, and remove the key.
2. With key in hand, exit the vehicle (closing the driver’s door upon exit).
3. Upon exiting the vehicle, reach to the back of the belt and pull the belt off (letting the belt to fall to the ground).
4. Move to the trunk, unlock, and open the trunk with the key.
5. Remove the revolver and the flashlight and close the trunk.
6. Place the revolver and keys on the stool, located at the side of the passenger side of the vehicle.
7. Keep the flashlight in hand and carry it with him/her throughout the 220-yard run (and obstacle course).
8. After placing the handgun and keys on the stool, (with flashlight in hand) begin the (first) 220-yard run.

Task 2: 220 Yard Run

Attributes Measured: Anaerobic capacity (muscular endurance).

Task Description: While carrying the flashlight the participant runs 220 yards on a flat surface to the entrance of the obstacle course.

Instructions:

1. Run 220 yards with flashlight in hand.
2. After completing the run, proceed to the obstacle course.
3. Keep flashlight in hand.

Task 3: Obstacle Course

Attributes Measured: Mobility, anaerobic capacity (muscular endurance), flexibility and coordination.

Task Description: Upon completion of the 220-yard run the participant passes through the pylons at the entrance to the obstacle course, consisting of the following tasks.

Instructions:

1. Climb over a 40-inch wall.
2. High step or jump over a series of three hurdles.
3. Serpentine through a forty-foot course of nine pylons.
4. Low crawl eight feet, under three high hurdles.
5. Leave the flashlight at the end of the low crawl and move to the “dummy drag” task.

Note: If at any time, the participant knocks over a hurdle or pylon, they immediately stop and repeat that portion of the obstacle course.

 

Task 4: Dummy Drag

Attributes Measured: Muscular endurance, strength/power, flexibility, agility.

Task Description: The participant sprints from the obstacle course, 50 feet, to the 150-pound dummy and drags it 100 feet on a cut grass surface.

Instructions:

1. Sprint 50 feet to the dummy.
2. Drag or move the dummy 100 feet.
3. Move back to the obstacle course.

Task 5: Obstacle Course (Repeat of Task 3 in Reverse)

Task Description: Upon completion of the dummy drag, sprint back to the obstacle course, pick up the flashlight and complete the obstacle course in reverse (low crawl, serpentine, high step, wall).

Task 6: 220 Yard Run (Repeat of Task 2)

Task 7: Dry Fire Weapon

Attributes Measured: Strength/power, muscular endurance, and finger strength.

Task Description: After completing the (second) 220-yard run, place the flashlight on the stool and pick up the revolver; using a one-handed grip fire six round with each hand.

Instructions:

1. Place flashlight on the bench.
2. Pick up revolver.
3. Assume a firing position while keeping arm completely outstretched at shoulder height and parallel with the ground.
4. Fire six rounds with each hand.

Task 8: Enter Trunk/Enter Vehicle (Repeat of Task 1 in Reverse)

Task Description: After firing the weapon place the weapon and flashlight in the trunk, close the trunk. With key in hand, reenter the vehicle, close the vehicle door, place the key in the ignition, fasten the seat belt and place both hands on the steering wheel. Time stops when participant’s hands rest on the steering wheel.

Instructions:

1. Pick up flashlight and handgun.
2. Place both items in the trunk.
3. Close trunk and remove key.
4. Reenter the vehicle.
5. Close the vehicle door and place key in the ignition.
6. Fasten seat belt.
7. Place both hands on the steering wheel.

 

THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE TIME FOR A PASSING SCORE IS 6:04 MINUTES

The Denise Amber Lee Act

The Denise Amber Lee Act was passed unanimously by the Florida Legislature on April 24, 2008, as Florida State Statute 401.465. This law mandates minimum training standards and certification for Florida's 9-1-1 Public Safety Telecommunicators.

Denise Amber Lee was a 21-year old loving mother of two young boys who was kidnapped, raped, and murdered on the west coast of Florida on January 17th, 2008. Through a series of mis-steps and negligent errors, 5 separate 9-1-1 calls were made concerning her case that day, including one from Denise herself. Despite their best efforts, law enforcement authorities were not able to save her in time. When it was later discovered that a 9-1-1 operator had failed to broadcast critical information in time to the responding units, the Lee family (and Denise's father, Detective Sgt. Rick Goff) pursued legal action and pushed for passage of this law.

The Lee and Goff families have established the Denise Amber Lee Foundation whose mission is: to promote and support public safety through uniform training, standardized protocols, defined measurable outcomes, and technological advances to the 9-1-1 system. 

 

Florida State Statute 401.465

The intent of the Legislature in adopting Chapter 2010-188, Laws of Florida, appears to have been the professionalization of E911 service by creating a mandatory statewide system for the certification and training of these personnel. Palm Beach State College seeks to contribute to this professionalization through its support and hosting of the 9-1-1 Public Safety Telecommunicator Dispatch Academy. This is the only Academy of its kind in South Florida with enrollment open to self-sponsored students interested in entering this career. View Florida State Statute 401.465

 

911 Public Safety Telecommunicator Academy

Palm Beach State College was approached by a local 9-1-1 Manager in February 2011, and began working on the logistics of organizing, hosting, and supporting this Academy. The first class (#001) session officially began June 19th, 2012, with a class enrollment of 14 students. Through cooperative agreement with the Palm Beach County 9-1-1 Training Committee, additional local 9-1-1 Telecommunicators who already held state certification participated in, and contributed to, select classes.

 

Our Logo

The "Together As One" logo was created by Class #001 graduate, Billy Osment. This design signifies the three Public Safety disciplines: Law Enforcement, Fire Services, and Emergency Medical Services all under the watchful headset of the 9-1-1 Public Safety Telecommunicator. 9-1-1 Dispatchers are responsible for not only the safety of their callers, but also their co-workers in the field.

 

FL Department of Health

Cool Kids of 9-1-1

Class 002 students were interviewed by Ricardo Martinez of the 9-1-1 podcast show Within The Trenches, on a break from their Active Shooter Class at the South Florida "Mini-C" Miniature Training Conference April 3rd, 2013, in Boca Raton, FL. Hear what they had to say about getting started in the 9-1-1 field, their experiences in the Academy, and their advice for anyone thinking about taking this class and becoming a 9-1-1 dispatcher!  Listen to the podcast.