Sworn Careers
The BPD is one of the largest police departments in the United States, staffed by nearly 2500 civilian and sworn personnel. The department’s jurisdiction covers Maryland’s largest city, with a population over 550,000.
Serve and Protect
Sworn officers of the Baltimore Police Department uphold the highest standards of law enforcement. With opportunities in patrol, investigations, and specialized units, you’ll find a fulfilling career that grows with you. Baltimore is ready. Are you?
Sworn Officer
The Baltimore Police Department is committed to making a difference. Among our responsibilities to Baltimore’s communities is a commitment to providing career options with opportunities for advancement, development and training.
As of 1/1/2026:
- Police Officer: $67,019 up to $121,878
- Sergeant: $94,641 up to $139,476
- Lieutenant: $111,148 up to $157,725
The BPD is an equal opportunity employer.
The BPD offers a competitive package that includes:
- A pension after 25 years of service (60% of sworn member’s salary)
- $12,000 Relocation to Baltimore City Incentive ($1,000 per month for one year)
- $10,000 signing bonus for new hires upon successful graduation
- $5,000/year additional student loan assistance for new hires
- Referral Bonus of $2,500-$7,500 per employee per hire
- Health insurance with prescription, dental and vision
- Industry-leading wellness support
- 12 weeks of family and medical leave after a year of employment
- Six-month paid entry-level Police Academy training
- Pay incentives for associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees
- Equipment at no cost
- An option to participate in the tax-deferred, 457B retirement plan (Deferred Compensation)
- A property tax credit of up to $2,500 per year for officers who live in the city
- Paid Time Off for vacation, medical (sick time), and holidays
The ideal officer candidate:
- Is a U.S. citizen, or a permanent legal resident of the United States who: is an honorably discharged veteran of the United States Armed Forces; and has submitted an application for United States citizenship that is pending approval
- Possesses a valid driver’s license
- Is at least 20 years and 9 months of age upon beginning the Police Academy
- Has a high school diploma or GED
- Can pass a comprehensive background check
- Has a good driving record with no more than five points
- Has not had a DWI/DUI conviction within the last 24 months
- Has been Honorably Discharged if they served in the military
- Is not currently on parole or probation
- Has had any misdemeanor charges expunged
- No marijuana use within one year
- Can pass a mental and physical examination
- Is, above all, truthful throughout the hiring process
Hiring Bonus
$10,000
Upon successfully passing Field training.
Hiring Process
1
Baltimore is Ready, Are You?
Use the button below to apply now and get your career started.
2
NTN Exam
National Testing Network is FREE for all applicants. They will offer a list of in-person testing sites near you.
3
Fitness Test
Being an officer can be physically demanding at times, and this test will help you decide if you’re ready.
4
Interview & Investigation
Your interview with a background investigator is one of the first steps in the background investigation. You will also undergo a polygraph test.
5
Physical & Psychological
We want to make sure you’re ready for the physical, emotional and ethical challenges of this career—and prepared to serve and protect the people of Baltimore.
Your Career Path
The advancement opportunities within the Baltimore Police Department are as unique as your passion and talent. Officers can become leaders and specialists in a wide range of roles—from the Cyber Crimes team to the K-9 unit.
Path of an Officer
Top Positions Selected Internally
Senior Leadership
