Top Law Enforcement CV Examples

Nilda Melissa Diaz, CPRW
By Nilda Melissa Diaz, CPRW, Career Advice Expert Last Updated: October 12, 2023
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With 421,500 projected job openings each year until 2031, law enforcement can see a large number of candidates. To stand out among other candidates, make a law enforcement CV to highlight your legal knowledge, policing skills and firearm techniques as well as your interpersonal skills, like leadership, persuasion and conflict resolution. 

We can help you make the perfect CV or resume and create an effective cover letter to match it. Find inspiration in our CV examples, resume examples and cover letter examples to get started.

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Law enforcement CV FAQ

What are some common skills required for law enforcement jobs?

Law enforcement professionals need to possess a mix of soft and hard skills to perform their jobs and attract the hiring manager’s attention. For example:

  • Warehouse operations
  • Crisis management
  • Risk assessment
  • Firearms
  • Cultural competency
  • Foreign languages & level of proficiency
  • Safety procedure
  • Community outreach
  • De-escalation techniques
  • Leadership 
  • Active listening
  • Physical stamina
  • Patrol
  • Criminal investigations
What’s the ideal format for a law enforcement CV?

A law enforcement CV format is open. Choose the CV order according to your strongest qualifications, industry or job requirements. Find a polished, professional CV template, and pay close attention to your grammar, action verbs and keywords to create your perfect CV.

What qualifications and certifications do employers look for in this industry?

To start a career in law enforcement, the minimum requirement is a high school diploma or equivalent, plus completing your state’s police academy program. You must also complete firearm and related training. 

You can also pursue certifications to hone your skills and advance your career. For example:

  • Peace Officers Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.)
  • Major Crimes Investigator Certificate
  • Nationally Certified Instructor (INCI)
  • Firearms-Related Training for Law Enforcement
  • First aid & CPR

Remember to include the issuing institution and, if applicable, the expiration date.

What is the salary potential in law enforcement?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for the law enforcement occupation group is $46,590. 

These are salaries in related occupations: 

  • Correctional officers: $47,920 per year
  • Police and detectives: $66,020 per year
  • Police officers: $59,380 per year
  • Security guards and gambling surveillance officers: $31,470 per year
What does the career progression for law enforcement look like?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 2% growth for law enforcement in this decade. This translates to 421,500 annual job openings and 72,600 additional jobs over the decade. In comparison, BLS projects a 5% nationwide occupation growth. 

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