We are now accepting applications for the Fall 2026 session (September 10 – November 14, 2026). The Spring 2026 session is currently ongoing (March 12 – May 16, 2026).
Interested in learning more about local law enforcement? The Community Police Academy (formerly Citizens Police Academy) is designed to give participants a glimpse behind the badge and to provide information about training, policies, and the many units and divisions within the Fairfax County Police Department.
The Fairfax County Police Department seeks people from a wide variety of cultures and backgrounds when selecting participants for its Community Police Academy. Candidates from different ethnicities, professions, cultural backgrounds, orientations, age groups, and communities throughout Fairfax County are encouraged to apply in order to enrich class discussions and strengthen community relationships.
Students Will Learn About
- Police training (including weapons and driving)
- Crime Scene Investigation
- Use of Force
- Traffic Stops
- Internal Affairs
- Police helicopter and its capabilities
- SWAT
- And much more...
Classes
Classes are held on nine consecutive Thursday nights, from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. The final class, which includes graduation activities, is held on a Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Classes rotate to various police department facilities around Fairfax County. Due to the popularity of the program, all participants are required to attend at eight out of ten classes in order to successfully graduate.
Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Live or work in Fairfax County
- Must clear a review of your criminal record and police contact history prior to acceptance
- Provide your own transportation
This program is not an accredited certification course. For information about employment or the paid police academy, visit Join FCPD.
For more information, please email us at CPA@fairfaxcounty.gov.