Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does the hiring process generally take?

The process takes approximately four to six weeks, depending on your application and factors in your background. 

2.  What are the minimum qualifications that all applicants for the position of police officer must meet?

The minimum qualifications that all applicants for the position of police officer must meet include the following: 

1.  Age of 21. 
2. High school graduation or GED completion. 
3. Pass a background investigation that includes the following: 

• Personal and family history
• Credit history, including current creditors 
• Education, including all schools attended and degrees or certificates obtained 
• All residences for the past ten years 
• Comprehensive employment history 
• A fingerprint-based criminal history search, including all arrests, locations, dates, and dispositions
• Traffic summonses and accidents 
• An inquiry of family, friends, and associates as to character and reputation, plus an informal interview with the applicant's spouse or "significant other,” as well as any ex-spouse.

3. As an out-of-state applicant, how many trips will I need to make to Lago Vista during the hiring process?

Generally, two trips are necessary. One trip will be for the Interview Board, and the second will be for the psychological evaluation and medical / drug screen. Contact us at 512-267-7141 or email Police Department Recruiting for more information.

4. What will happen if I intentionally omit important information or am found to be deceptive in the hiring process regarding my background history?

Honesty and integrity are important facets of police work. If you are found intentionally omitting important information or being deceptive, you will be permanently disqualified from the hiring process.

5. What are the disqualifiers for employment?

The following are absolute disqualifiers for employment as a sworn officer: 

1. Conviction or admission of any felony or a conviction of a Class A misdemeanor. 
2. Conviction of any Class B misdemeanor in the past ten years. 
3. Conviction or admission of marijuana use within the past year or any other illegal drug within the past three years. 
4. Conviction of family violence. 
5. Dishonorable discharge from the military

6. I have been disqualified or was previously disqualified from the hiring process. How long is it before I can reapply?

That depends on why you were disqualified. If you had one of the permanent disqualifiers, you are ineligible to reapply. You may reapply after one year if you fail the oral board or psychological examination. Any other disqualification will result in a minimum disqualification of one year or possible permanent disqualification.

7. Do I have to live in Lago Vista to be a Lago Vista Police Department police officer?

No, You do not have to live in Lago Vista to serve as a police officer.

8. What is the application process for sworn officers?

1.  Complete a written city application and a personal history statement and submit them to the Chief of Police.
2. Submit a copy of each document:  

• Birth certificate 
• Driver’s license 
• High school diploma or transcript, or GED certificate
• Credit report dated no more than 90 days prior
•  Any college transcripts 
• Copy of military discharge papers, if any.
•  Any other documents that may be required.

9. What is the application process for non-sworn personnel? 

1. Complete a written city application and personal history statement and submit them to the Chief of Police. 
2.  Copies of the following documents will also be submitted:

•  Birth certificate 
• Driver’s license  
• High school diploma or transcript, or GED certificate 
•  Any college transcripts 
• Copy of military discharge papers, if any. 
•  Any other documents that may be required.
•  Arrange with the Chief of Police to appear for other selection process steps

10. Does the Lago Vista Police Department have policies on tattoos and facial hair?

Yes. Our policy states that officers can have visible tattoos as long as they are not offensive and no tattoos. Facial hair is allowed, but it must be kept neat. Please contact us at 512-267-7141 or email Police Department Recruiting with any questions.

11. Are there any age or physical limitations on who can apply to be a police officer?

A police officer must be at least 21 years old to be licensed in Texas. There is no maximum age limit to apply for the Lago Vista Police Department.

12. Do I have to attend a police academy?

Yes, unless you are already Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) certified, you must complete or attend an accredited police academy before applying with us.

13. Does the Lago Vista Police Department offer lateral transfers for police officers?

Yes, we do have a lateral transfer program. Additional information about this program can be found on the Lateral Transfer Program page.

14. May I submit a resume?

Yes, you may submit a resume at the time of application.

15. Where can I get an application and personal history statement?

Access the application/personal history statement (PDF) online.

16. Where can I get a City of Lago Vista application? 

 Access the application online.

17. Does the Lago Vista Police Department furnish all of my uniforms and equipment?

Yes, the Lago Vista Police Department will furnish all the required uniforms and equipment you will need to start work with us.

18. When do benefits start?

Benefits start the first of the month after you are hired.

19. What shifts do patrol officers work?

Our patrol officers work 12-hour shifts. We work either 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., with every other weekend off. We rotate shifts approximately every 4 months.

Dispatch officers work 12-hour shifts. We work either 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., and a cover shift, with every other weekend off. 

20. Do I need to turn in my application and personal history statement first?

No. The first step in the application process is to fill out our City application here. Once that is submitted by email, a recruiting team member will contact you.

21. I am a police officer in another state. What is the process of being licensed in Texas?

Go to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) website and review the Out of State Application Process in the Forms and Applications section. Out-of-state officers must complete the mandated training and may challenge the state test for certification.

22. How should I prepare for the oral interview?

During the interview, we’re going to ask questions about you as a person, as well as questions pertaining to why you want to work for us, and the skills you possess. Scenario-based questions may also be asked to help assess suitability for the position.

We’re also going to see how well you have prepared, and your specific desire to work at the Lago Vista Police Department. What do you know about our department? Who is our leadership team? What’s the population, square mileage, and ethnicity of our community?