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How to Become a Police Officer

Join the Medford Police Department
The Medford Police Department is proud to serve with some of the nation’s finest officers and civilian staff. There are now two pathways to becoming an entry-level officer:


1. Civil Service Exam Route

  • Step 1: Take the Massachusetts Civil Service Exam
    This exam is now offered twice annually. Once in the spring and once in the fall.
  • Step 2: Prepare for the Exam
    Visit the candidate portal for study materials and registration info. Email candidate.prep@talogy.com to obtain an access code.
  • Step 3: Get Listed
    After passing the exam, your name will appear on an eligibility list based on your residency one year before the exam. You can also select other cities and towns whose list you’d like to appear on.
  • Step 4: Department Hiring
    When Medford is hiring, the Civil Service Unit sends a list of eligible candidates. If your name is reached, the hiring process begins (see “Next Steps” below).

2. GetBadged Route

  • Step 1: Register at GetBadged.com
    Choose an exam date and start your membership.
  • Step 2: Prepare for the Exam
    Use the study guide found in the FAQ section of your Candidate Dashboard.
  • Step 3: Take the Exam
    Score 70% or higher to become eligible to apply.
  • Step 4: Apply for Jobs
    After passing, you can apply directly to Medford PD or other departments via GetBadged.

Next Steps After Passing an Exam

Whether you come through the Civil Service or GetBadged route:

  1. Complete the Employment Packet
    A detailed packet will be provided.
  2. Background Check
    A thorough investigation of your history will be conducted.
  3. Interview
    You’ll be interviewed by department staff.

Conditional Offer Requirements

If selected, you must pass the following:

  • Medical Exam
  • Initial-Hire Physical Ability Test (PAT)
  • Psychological Exam
  • Drug Screening

Police Academy Training

After meeting all requirements, you’ll attend a six-month training program at the police academy — the start of your career as a Medford Police Officer.


The City of Medford is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
All qualified applicants are considered without regard to race, sex, age, religion, or disability.


The Medford Police Department is also hiring those who have attended a full-time MPTC police academy and lateral transfers.

Why Medford PD?

On-Duty Wellness Breaks

Officers are afforded a 45-minute on-duty wellness break, giving them dedicated time to recharge and stay fit in our fully equipped station gym

Male officer in uniform in front of a brick wall.

Competitive Pay

Officers make $64,000–$101,000 annually, based on your education and shift. We offer educational incentives, top-tier detail rates, plenty of overtime, and specialty stipends.

Community-Oriented Policing

At Medford PD, you’ll do more than serve—you’ll build lasting relationships and make a real impact in the community you protect