The Citizens Police Academy gives citizens a unique insight into their police department.

Academy attendees get instruction on a variety of law enforcement subjects. The classes are taught by men and women of the Oklahoma City Police Department who perform these tasks daily.

Classes meet once a week, usually Tuesday evenings, from 6 until 9 pm, at the Police Training Center, for 12 consecutive weeks.

Attendees get a real insider's look at the internal operations of the department. They learn about laws of arrest, search and seizure, and officer safety techniques. They're shown how meth labs are handled, how the COMIT unit conducts drug interdiction on the highways and learn what it takes to investigate a fatality collision.

Not all the presentations are conducted in the classroom. They see a demonstration of the less-lethal force options employed by officers. They will travel to the department's pistol range and observe the tactical team conduct raid training, watch the bomb squad blow up a vehicle and fire full-auto machine guns, among other displays and demonstrations.

Applicants to the CPA are screened through a criminal background check before being accepted into a session. The Training Center continually accepts applications and screens applicants. Successful applicants are notified well in advance of the upcoming session.

Classroom instruction combined with hands-on demonstrations provide an exciting and fun way to learn about the department.

How long is the Academy?

The CPA meets in the evening, once a week, for 12 weeks. Classes are usually three hours long.

When does it meet?

Two Academy classes are scheduled each year. Citizens who have applied to attend are notified when a class has been scheduled.

Will I be qualified to perform law enforcement services after attending the CPA?

No. The CPA exists solely to enhance community relations and provide a general understanding of the criminal justice system.

Click here if you're interested in a career with the Oklahoma City Police Department.

Does the CPA cost anything to attend?

No. All materials are provided free to attendees.

Are there any physical fitness requirements or mandatory activities?

While there are no physical fitness requirements or mandatory physical activities, a commitment to consistently attend each evening session is strongly encouraged.

Download an application

How do I apply?

Download the application and deliver it in person, by mail, or fax to:

Oklahoma City Police Department

Police Training Center

Attn: Lt. Jason Knight

800 N Portland Ave.

Oklahoma City, OK 73107

(405) 297-1110

(405) 316-1110 (fax)