Career roadmap
How to Become a Correctional Officer
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a correctional officer, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a correctional officer: (1) meet requirements, (2) pass tests, (3) complete the academy, (4) work the floor, (5) advance. Most people need about 2–4 months (academy). BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a correctional officer
Meet requirements
Age, citizenship and background standards vary by agency.
Pass tests
Written exam, physical test and psychological evaluation.
Complete the academy
Learn security, law and defensive tactics.
Work the floor
Build experience in housing units.
Advance
Become a sergeant, lieutenant or move into probation or policing.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma is typical; federal prisons may require some college or experience. Officers complete an academy and on-the-job training.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 2–4 months (academy) |
Certifications and licenses
- State corrections officer certification: Required by many states after academy.
- CPR and first aid: Emergency medical training.
- Defensive tactics training: Self-defense and control techniques.
- Crisis intervention training: Training for mental health crises.
Skills to build now
Start with facility security procedures, search and contraband detection, and use-of-force policies, and practice firm, fair communication and situational awareness. Learning the correctional officer vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Correctional Officer: Supervise housing units.
- Corporal or Sergeant: Lead shifts and units.
- Lieutenant or Captain: Manage operations.
- Warden or Probation Officer: Lead facilities or move to community corrections.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Correctional Officer training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do correctional officers need a degree?
Usually not, though federal jobs may require some college or experience.
How long does it take to become a correctional officer?
Most people need about 2–4 months (academy) of training. A high school diploma is typical; federal prisons may require some college or experience. Officers complete an academy and on-the-job training.
Do you need a degree to be a correctional officer?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for correctional officers?
Common credentials include State corrections officer certification, CPR and first aid, Defensive tactics training, and Crisis intervention training. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 33-3012 (Correctional officers and jailers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Correctional officers and jailers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.