Can you become a police officer if you have used marijuana?

Police forces are recruiting across the country – but can you join the force if you've used marijuana?

Across the country, cities and states are experiencing a law enforcement hiring spree. From Seattle to Charlotte, enlistment bonuses and more are being used to recruit more women and men to the force. But can you become a police officer if you have used marijuana? The answer, as always, is: it depends.

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To become a police officer you must do the following. You typically must be over 21, have at least a high school diploma or a GED, and pass a background check. Then you complete a training program or police academy, pass the state law enforcement exams, and pass the physical fitness and medical exams. But what about cannabis use?

Many police departments have softened their stance on past marijuana use among officer candidates. While some agencies may still automatically disqualify applicants for prior use, this is becoming less common. Instead, most departments now consider factors such as:

• Currentness of use
• Frequency/extent of use
• Type of medication used
• Time elapsed since last use

For example, depending on their policies, some agencies may accept applicants who have not used marijuana in the last one to three years. Specific thresholds can vary greatly between departments. As marijuana legalization increases across the U.S., police departments are adjusting their hiring practices. Some cities have reduced waiting times between last marijuana use and eligibility to apply.

There is increasing recognition that strict lifetime bans on prior use can exclude otherwise strong candidates. Authorities in states where recreational marijuana is legal are grappling with evolving guidelines. Current marijuana use remains prohibited for active-duty officers in most jurisdictions, even in legal states, due to federal law and job performance concerns

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If you have a history of marijuana use and are seeking a career in law enforcement:

• Be honest about past usage during the application process
• Check each agency's policies, as they vary widely
• Emphasize growth, maturity, and commitment to a drug-free lifestyle