The Texarkana Arkansas Police Department is inviting qualified residents to apply for its upcoming Civil Service Entrance Examination for law‑enforcement positions. The exam is scheduled for Monday, September 4, and will begin promptly at 8 a.m. at the department’s Union Training Center, located at 1701 Line Ferry Road.
Eligibility Requirements
Prospective candidates must satisfy a set of minimum standards before they can sit for the test. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age, be a United States citizen, and hold a valid driver’s license. A high school diploma or GED is required, and any felony convictions will disqualify an applicant. Additionally, misdemeanor convictions involving domestic or family violence are prohibited.
The department also enforces a strict appearance policy: no visible tattoos are allowed on the head, neck, face, scalp, or hands, with the sole exception of a single wedding‑band tattoo. Candidates must also demonstrate a clean substance‑use record, having not used illicit drugs or illegal substances within the past two years.
Compensation and Career Path
Successful applicants who become police officers will start at an entry salary of $61,402 per year, reflecting the department’s commitment to attracting qualified individuals who can protect and serve the community.
In addition to the entry‑level pathway, the department has revised its lateral‑entry program. Previously, officers with prior law‑enforcement experience could receive credit for up to five years of service. The new policy now allows credit for up to ten years of prior experience, providing a faster route to higher rank and pay for seasoned professionals.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should contact Corporal Claudia Phelps for further information and to obtain the application packet. Phelps can be reached at 903‑798‑3125. The department encourages individuals who meet the criteria and are committed to upholding public safety to apply.
Community Impact
This recruitment effort supports the broader goal of maintaining a well‑trained, professional police force in Texarkana. By offering competitive pay and recognizing prior experience, the department aims to strengthen its ranks with dedicated officers who share the community’s values of family, faith, and liberty.
Residents are urged to spread the word to qualified friends and family members who may be interested in a career in law enforcement. The upcoming exam represents a concrete opportunity for local citizens to serve their city while building a stable, rewarding profession.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
