FDLE Certification Validity
In the state of Florida, once an individual obtains certification as a law enforcement officer, their certification remains valid as long as they are actively employed in a sworn position and complete all mandatory retraining requirements. However, if an officer separates from employment for reasons other than military duty, their certification expires four years from the date of separation (Officer Requirements FAQ, n.d.).
Re-Employment after Certification Expiration
If an officer experiences a break in service that ranges from four to eight years, they must apply for an Equivalency of Training (EOT) to become re-employed (Officer Requirements FAQ, n.d.). To apply for an EOT, the officer must contact an approved selection center, training school, or employing agency. Additionally, they must provide documentation that proves at least one year of full-time work as a certified officer and training that is comparable to Florida’s basic recruit training program (Equivalency of Training (EOT), n.d.).
Mandatory Retraining
To maintain their certification, all certified officers must complete 40 hours of training every four years (Mandatory Retraining Requirements, n.d.). This training must be job-related and align with the needs of the employing agency.
Conclusion
FDLE certification remains valid as long as officers maintain active employment in a sworn position and fulfill mandatory retraining requirements. If an officer separates from employment, their certification expires after four years. To become re-employed after a break in service of four to eight years, officers must apply for an Equivalency of Training.
References
Equivalency of Training (EOT). (n.d.). Florida Department of Law Enforcement. https://www.fdle.state.fl.us/CJSTC/Officer-Requirements/Equivalency-of-Training
Key Facts
- Certification Validity: Once certified, an officer’s certification remains valid as long as they are employed in a sworn position and complete all mandatory retraining .
- Expiration: If an officer separates from employment for any reason other than military duty, the certification expires four years from the date of separation .
- Re-Employment: If there is a break in service from 4 to 8 years, the officer must apply for an Equivalency of Training to become re-employed .
- Equivalency of Training: To apply for an Equivalency of Training, the officer must contact one of the approved selection centers, training schools, or an employing agency and provide documentation proving at least one year of full-time work as a certified officer and training comparable to Florida’s basic recruit training program .
- Mandatory Retraining: All certified officers must complete 40 hours of training every four years to maintain their certification .
Mandatory Retraining Requirements. (n.d.). Florida Department of Law Enforcement. https://www.fdle.state.fl.us/CJSTC/Officer-Requirements/Mandatory-Retraining
Officer Requirements FAQ. (n.d.). Florida Department of Law Enforcement. https://www.fdle.state.fl.us/CJSTC/Officer-Requirements/OR-FAQs.aspx
FAQs
How long does FDLE certification last?
FDLE certification lasts as long as the officer remains employed in a sworn position and completes all mandatory retraining requirements.
What happens if an officer separates from employment?
If an officer separates from employment for any reason other than military duty, their certification expires four years from the date of separation.
What is the process for re-employment after a break in service?
If an officer experiences a break in service of four to eight years, they must apply for an Equivalency of Training (EOT) to become re-employed.
How do I apply for an Equivalency of Training?
To apply for an EOT, the officer must contact an approved selection center, training school, or employing agency and provide documentation that proves at least one year of full-time work as a certified officer and training that is comparable to Florida’s basic recruit training program.
What are the mandatory retraining requirements?
All certified officers must complete 40 hours of training every four years to maintain their certification.
What is the purpose of mandatory retraining?
Mandatory retraining ensures that officers stay up-to-date on the latest law enforcement techniques and best practices.
Who is responsible for ensuring that officers complete their mandatory retraining?
The employing agency is responsible for ensuring that officers complete their mandatory retraining.
What are the consequences of not completing mandatory retraining?
Officers who do not complete their mandatory retraining may have their certification suspended or revoked.