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Question:
Do I have to be a United States citizen to be a California law enforcement officer, or can I be
a legal resident alien and still apply for a peace officer position in California?
Answer:
In accordance with Government Code Section 1031 and 1031.5, to be appointed as a peace officer in California,
you must be a citizen of the United States or a permanent resident alien who is eligible for and has applied
for citizenship. Citizenship status must be conferred within three years of applying for citizenship.
Additional citizenship requirements are stipulated for California Highway patrol officers, who must be
U.S. citizens at the time of appointment (per Vehicle Code Section 2267). In addition, per Government
Code Section 24103, California deputy sheriffs and deputy marshals must be citizens of the state, i.e.,
California residents. However, recently-passed legislation (SB 1241) repeals this additional requirement
as of January 1, 2007.
Questions about peace officer citizenship requirements may be directed to
your regional consultant.
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