Frequently Asked Questions.

Here are some frequently asked questions our recruiters receive from potential applicants.

Is the police academy paid?

Yes, the academy is paid. You will receive your full benefits throughout the academy and will accrue sick and annual leave time as well. By the end of the academy, you should have roughly 60 hours of annual leave.

How long is the Police Academy?

The Basic Police Academy consists of 30-35 weeks of classroom and hands-on, scenario-based training. The blocks of instruction are based on the requirements outlined by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services.

What are the academy hours?

The schedule is usually 10-hour days Monday-Thursday or Tuesday-Friday; there will be some instruction that requires night hours. The vast majority of the classroom and physical training will take place at the Public Safety Building Training Center on E. Parham Road.

What is the starting salary?

If you are a first time recruit going through the Basic Police Academy, the starting salary is $64,038. If you are a current Virginia DCJS certified officer or out-of-state equivalent and you want to lateral to Henrico County, the salary is negotiable.

How long is the hiring process?

The hiring process can take anywhere from five to seven months; depending on how long your background investigation takes. Typically if you have lived in a number of different locations in your life, your background may take longer to complete. If you have not heard from a processing coordinator in a while, please reach out via [email protected].

Is there a tattoo policy?

Yes, Henrico Police has a tattoo policy. Tattoos are allowed to be visible while in uniform as long as they are not on the scalp, face (front of a person’s head from the forehead to chin), and the front of the neck. Learn more about this policy.

Is there a beard policy?

Yes, Henrico Police has a beard/grooming policy. While you are in the academy and through field training, recruits are expected to be clean-shaven. However, once released to solo-duty you may have a beard. It must be well-maintained and cannot exceed ¼ inch and must contour to the face. Learn more about this policy.

Is there a hair policy?

Yes, Henrico Police has a hair/grooming policy. Natural hairstyles including braids, cornrows and locs are allowed while in uniform as long as they are neatly maintained and can be worn in a style that allows you to wear your dress hat. Learn more about this policy.

What is the patrol schedule?

Patrol officers work permanent 11.5-hours shifts, four days on and four days off. There are three shifts per day:

  • Day: 0600 to 1730 hrs (6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.)
  • Evening: 1330 to 0100 hrs (1:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.)
  • Midnight: 1930 to 0700 hrs (7:30 p.m. to 7 a.m)