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Lateral applicant Process

In-state Process

  1. Written Exam
  2. Oral board
  3. Background investigation
  4. Psychological exam/interview (case by case)
  5. Medical/drug screening

Out-of-state Process

  1. Written exam
  2. Oral board
  3. Background Investigation
  4. Psychological exam/interview (case by case)
  5. Medical/drug screening
  6. Certification by Waiver at NMLEA)

Frequently asked Questions

  • First, start by applying for the position of Deputy Cadet here: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/santafecounty. Once you apply, HR will send you a background packet to complete and schedule you for a testing date. At the testing date, you will turn in your background packet, you will be administered a general knowledge written test, followed by physical assessment. If you pass both, a background check will be conducted which can take up to 3 weeks or longer depending on your background. At the completion of the background check, you will be scheduled for a physical/medical screening and a psychological evaluation. If all the aforementioned requirements are met and passed successfully, you may receive a hire date at this point.
  • First, start by applying for the position that you would qualify for based on your years of law enforcement experience here: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/santafecounty. Once HR confirms your qualifications, an interview will be set up by our command staff. You will be sent a background packet which will need to be turned in at the time of your interview. The interview will include a written test of basic police knowledge. Lateral deputies do not typically need to submit to a psychological examination, but it is considered on a case by case basis. A physical/medical screening will be administered and upon completion of everything, and a job offer maybe tendered.
  • Yes. The NM DPS Training Academy is a 16-week training academy that will instruct you on everything you will need to be successful as a law enforcement officer. The Academy requires cadets to stay on campus throughout the week. A “typical” week will have you report on Sunday evening and you will live in the campus dorms until Friday afternoon, when you will be released for the weekend. You can find more information on the DPS Academy here. https://www.lea.nm.gov/basic-police-officer-training-bpot/
  • Not all criminal history is an automatic disqualifier. However, certain criminal charges such as domestic violence convictions and felony convictions may prevent you from carrying a firearm. If you have any questions or special circumstances, please reach out to a recruiter at (505) 986-2402.
  • No. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office provides you with all your uniforms and equipment, including firearms. Cadets are provided their duty uniform and the required uniform for the Academy. Laterals are provided their duty uniform. All deputies receive an annual uniform stipend after completion of first year of employment.
  • Santa Fe County employees are provided with various leave benefits, including annual leave, sick leave, holidays, personal holidays, Family Medical Leave (FMLA), military leave, bereavement leave, mentorship/volunteer leave, and educational leave.
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