Training and Classes | SCDPS
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South Carolina Department of Public Safety

Training and Classes

The Training Experience

All State Transport Police officers undergo a minimum of 12 weeks of intensive training at the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy before beginning their law enforcement careers.  After completing the Criminal Justice Academy officers will be required to complete the North American Standards Federal Courses for their Advanced Training.

Uncertified

  1. SC Criminal Justice Academy (SCCJA) Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLE) (12 weeks)
  2. Advanced Training
  3. Field Training and Evaluation

Certified/SC Class 1

  1. Advanced Training
  2. Field Training and Evaluation

Basic Law Enforcement (BLE) - 12 weeks

The Basic Law Enforcement program (BLE) is mandated by South Carolina Law and provides officers with the necessary knowledge, skills, and the abilities to perform the duties of a certified law enforcement officer in the state of South Carolina. The curriculum during this program includes Pre-Academy Orientation topics along with the following:

  • Criminal law
  • Civil liability
  • Probable cause and arrest
  • Emergency vehicle operations 
  • Crime scene evidence
  • Behavioral science
  • Basic patrol operations
  • Interview and interrogation
  • Report writing
  • Basic collision investigation
  • DUI detection and field sobriety testing

Upon completion of the twelve week training the candidate will be a certified Class 1 Law Enforcement Officer.

Advanced Training

Officer Trainees will receive specialized training in Commercial Motor Vehicle Enforcement. Training includes the following topics:

  • North American Standards
  • General Hazardous Material
  • Size and Weight Enforcement
  • RADAR, LIDAR, & TASER Training
  • North American Standards (Motor Coach Inspection)

Upon completion of the SC Criminal Justice Academy Basic Training Program, the trainee will be commissioned as a South Carolina State Transport Police Officer.  The newly commissioned Officer will then enter a Field Training and Evaluation Program within their assigned Region. The Officer, along with his Field Training Officer, must successfully complete the Field Training and Evaluation Program (FTEP).