Pasco County, Florida, lies northeast of Tampa and includes the Dade City and the City of Zephyrhills, among others. There are numerous opportunities in Pasco County for a career in law enforcement. The basic requirements are extensive and the application process is lengthy.

Law Enforcement Agencies in Pasco County

In addition to the Pasco County Sheriff's Office, law enforcement agencies include the police departments of Dade City, Port Richey, New Port Richey and Zephyrhills. Law enforcement in the city of San Antonio and the town of St. Leo is provided by the county sheriff's department.

Basic Qualifications

All three law enforcement agencies follow the statutory requirements under section 943.13 of the Florida Code. Applicants must be at least 19 years old and a U.S. citizen. You must have a high school diploma or the equivalent. A felony conviction, being convicted of domestic violence or a misdemeanor involving perjury or false statement disqualifies an applicant, as does a dishonorable discharge from the armed forces. A valid Florida driver's license is required.

Training

You must complete an approved training course prior to application. The training can be completed through many of the state's community colleges. The 770-hour training generally takes five to nine months, depending on whether the student attends full-time or part-time.

Application Process

You must fill out an official application to be considered for employment. You will need to pass a thorough background check, including a criminal records check, a credit check and a driving record check. Each applicant must pass the Test of Adult Basic Education, a drug screening, a psychological examination and a polygraph test, as well as a physical fitness test.