Police Officer Training How long is the training period in the Academy? What type of training do recruits receive? Is there a probationary period? Additional Information How long is the training period in the Academy? Academy training for recruit officers lasts for 24 weeks. During the first month, recruit officers live on site at the Academy (except for on weekends). What type of training do recruits receive? MPDC recruit officers complete a full program of physical, classroom, and firearms training to prepare them for the challenges of being a police officer. The subjects covered include laws of arrest, search and seizure, criminal law, traffic regulations, human relations, community policing, and ethics. In addition, recruit officers receive skills training in firearms, operation of emergency police vehicles, self-defense, advanced first aid, and much more. Is there a probationary period? MPDC officers serve an 18-month probationary period, which includes the 24 weeks spent in the Training Academy. Additional Information Call the Police Recruiting Unit: (202) 727-2767 (800) 994-MPDC (6732)