California’s Reserve Peace Officer Program (RPOP) stands as a vital component of the state’s law enforcement infrastructure. Comprised of dedicated citizens who volunteer or work part-time, these officers collaborate with full-time personnel across city, county, district, and state levels, significantly enhancing public safety. With approximately 6,200 reserve officers serving in around 600 agencies, their contribution is undeniable.
Reserve officers undertake diverse roles, mirroring those of their full-time counterparts. These encompass:
- Uniformed Patrol
- Investigations
- Marine and Boat Patrol
- Search and Rescue Operations
- Mounted Units
- Special Event Management
- Translation Services
- Computer Forensics
- Chaplaincy
The RPOP’s roots trace back to World War II, experiencing substantial growth in officer numbers and responsibilities since its inception. Recognizing their importance, California’s legislature has established rigorous selection and training standards, ensuring the professionalism and effectiveness of reserve peace officers.
Aspiring reserve officers must meet stringent selection criteria, identical to those for full-time officers, including thorough background checks and medical and psychological evaluations, as mandated by Commission Regulations 1950-1955.
Commission Regulation 1007(a) details the mandatory minimum training, which is crucial for equipping reserve officers with the necessary skills and knowledge.
To accommodate varying agency needs, the state recognizes three levels of reserve peace officers. El Camino College, a leading institution in law enforcement training, provides programs for Module III (entry-level) and Module II. Furthermore, the college offers the Penal Code 832 Course: Arrest and Firearms, a foundational requirement for all California peace officers.
For inquiries regarding POST-certified courses, individuals can contact Neal Mongan at [email protected].
AJ 49 PC 832 Course – Arrest and Firearms Application
AJ 150 POST Modular Academy – Level III (Entry level) Application
AJ 155 POST Modular Academy – Level II Application
Requirements and Costs for Reserve Officer Training
Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old. However, due to agency hiring preferences, it’s advisable to be at least 21. Younger applicants are encouraged to pursue higher education in fields like Administration of Justice, Homeland Security, Emergency Management, Forensics, or Crime Analysis, all offered at El Camino College.
Education: A high school diploma or GED is the minimum educational requirement. However, associate’s, bachelor’s, or advanced degrees significantly enhance employment prospects in this competitive field.
License: A valid California Driver’s License and a current DMV driving record printout are mandatory.
Fingerprint Clearance: Students must obtain a California Department of Justice Firearms and Arrest Clearance (Penal Code 13511.5) – Live Scan Request Form.
Medical Examination: A medical exam is required prior to program admission. Results must be submitted on the El Camino College medical form during the first week – ECC Medical Clearance Form.
Course Duration: POST Level III and Level II courses are semester-long modular programs. Each module requires separate registration. Level III completion is a prerequisite for Level II.
Financial and Veterans Aid: Financial aid and veterans services are available on campus at (310) 660-3493 and (310) 660-3486, respectively.
Graduation and Certification:
- Module III graduates receive a certificate qualifying them for Level III Reserve Officer positions statewide.
- Module II graduates receive a certificate for Level II Reserve Officer eligibility.
- Certificates are valid for three years from issuance.
Flexible Modular Training Program
El Camino College’s extended modular training is designed for individuals who need to balance employment with police training. Classes are held Mondays and Wednesdays (6:30 PM – 9:00 PM) and Saturdays (7:30 AM – 4:00 PM), with potential extensions and occasional Sundays.
This program caters to those seeking Level III or Level II reserve officer status.
- Level III qualification requires Module III completion (minimum 144 hours).
- Level II requires both Module III and Module II (additional 189 hours).
Modules can be completed at different times and facilities.
Module III prerequisites: medical and DOJ firearms clearances, valid driver’s license.
Module II prerequisites: Module III completion (within 3 years), current PC 832 Arrest and Firearms certification, passing Module III proficiency test (within 12 months), medical and DOJ firearms clearances, valid driver’s license.
Estimated Costs for Police Training Modules
| MODULE III – Tuition, Fees & Uniforms (Approximate Costs) | |
|---|---|
| Tuition ($46/unit x 7 units) | $322.00 |
| Student Rep Fee | $0.50 |
| Parking | $35.00 |
| Health Fee | $20.00 |
| College Service Fee | $10.00 |
| Total Tuition & Fees | $387.50 |
| Non-resident tuition (+$248/unit) | |
| UNIFORMS (Approximate) | |
| Short Sleeve Shirt (x1) | $25.00 |
| Pants (x1) | $25.00 |
| Navy Shorts (x2) | $40.00 |
| White T-shirts with Name (x2) | $28.00 |
| Sweatshirt (x1) | $15.00 |
| Sweatpants (x1) | $15.00 |
| Nylon Jacket (Optional) | $25.00 |
| Running Shoes | $75.00 |
| Mat Shoes (Optional) | $30.00 |
| Uniform Shoes | $100.00 |
| MISC. EQUIPMENT (Approximate) | |
| Flashlight | $25.00 |
| Combination Lock | $6.00 |
| Total Uniforms & Equipment | $409.00 |
| OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT | |
| Eye Protection | $10.00 |
| Ear Protection | $20.00 |
| Equipment Bag | $50.00 |
| POST LD Workbooks | $107.00 |
| Total Optional Equipment | $187.00 |
| ADDITIONAL COSTS (Approximate) | |
| Live Scan Fingerprints | $85.00 |
| Medical Exam | $75.00 |
| Driver Record | $5.00 |
| Range Fees & Ammunition | $125.00 |
| Total Additional Costs | $290.00 |
| MAXIMUM ESTIMATED COST Module III | $1273.50 |
| MODULE II – Tuition, Fees & Uniforms (Approximate Costs) | |
|---|---|
| Tuition ($46/unit x 11 units) | $506.00 |
| Student Rep Fee | $0.50 |
| Parking | $35.00 |
| Health Fee | $20.00 |
| College Service Fee | $20.00 |
| Total Tuition & Fees | $571.50 |
| Non-resident tuition (+$248/unit) | |
| UNIFORMS (Approximate) | |
| Long Sleeve Shirt | $25.00 |
| Black Tie | $15.00 |
| Tie Bar | $8.00 |
| Total Uniforms | $48.00 |
| ADDITIONAL COSTS (Approximate) | |
| Live Scan Fingerprints (if not from Module III at ECC) | $85.00 |
| Medical Exam (if not from Module III at ECC) | $75.00 |
| DMV Driver Record (if not from Module III at ECC) | $5.00 |
| Range Fee & Ammunition | $25.00 |
| Total Additional Costs | $290.00 |
| MAXIMUM ESTIMATED COST Module II (New Students) | $1505.50 |
| MAXIMUM ESTIMATED COST Module II (Continuing Students) | $844.50 |
| Residence Requirements: ECC is a CA public community college. |
POST-FedEx Kinkos Program for Workbooks
Students receive digital workbooks. Printed versions are available via the POST-FedEx Kinkos Program: https://docstore.fedex.com/post_ca. For assistance, call 1-800-GoFedEx.
Medical Clearance Details
The El Camino College LETP Medical Clearance Form must be completed and signed by an MD, DO, Physician Assistant, or Nurse Practitioner and is due on the first day of class. Standard exams do not include blood work or EKGs, which may incur extra costs if deemed necessary by the medical professional. Review, initial, and sign the form before your examination.
Uniform Specifications
Class A Uniform (Module II required): Long sleeve shirt, uniform pants, black tie with silver tie bar, black uniform shoes/boots, white gloves for graduation.
Class B Uniform (Modules III & II minimum): Short sleeve shirt, uniform pants, black uniform shoes/boots.
Detailed uniform specifications will be provided.
Reliable Uniform Vendors, Including Keystone Uniforms in Covina
Securing the correct uniforms and equipment is a crucial step in preparing for reserve officer training. Several reputable vendors supply law enforcement uniforms in the Southern California area. Among these, Keystone Uniform Depot, located at 123 S. Citrus Ave in Covina, CA 91723, (626) 915-1936, stands out as a local option known for serving law enforcement professionals. They offer a range of uniform items and equipment that may be suitable for reserve officer trainees.
Other vendors include:
| Vendor | Address & Contact |
|---|---|
| Galls – Long Beach Uniform | 2789 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach, CA 90806, (562) 424-0220 |
| Galls – Los Angeles | 6365 S. Arizona Circle, Los Angeles, CA 90045, (310) 338-6800 |
| Galls – Uniform Center | 1249 W. Katella Ave., Orange, CA 92867, (714) 633-3880 |
| Galls Uniforms | www.galls.com |
| Tom’s Uniforms | 301 E. Main St., Alhambra, CA 91801, (626) 281-5341 |
| Keystone Uniform Depot | 123 S. Citrus Ave., Covina, CA 91723, (626) 915-1936 |
| Westway Uniforms | 17920 Western Avenue, Gardena, CA 90248, (310) 538-8399 |
When preparing for your training, exploring vendors like Keystone Uniforms in Covina and others listed can ensure you are properly equipped and ready for your journey as a California Reserve Peace Officer.
Obtaining Your DMV Driver Record
A DMV driver record on DMV letterhead, dated within three months of class start, is required on the first day. Request form INF 1125 online: DMV Driver Record. A $5.00 fee is required. Submit the form in person at your local DMV office.
Alt text: California Reserve Peace Officer Program in action, showcasing a patrol car and officer, highlighting community service and law enforcement partnership.
Alt text: El Camino College campus scene, representing the educational institution offering POST certified Reserve Officer training programs in California.
