Training
Redwood City Police Department personnel are held to rigorous training standards that begin before an officer is sworn in and continue throughout their career. The Department's training program combines state-mandated minimums, academy-based instruction, structured field training, and ongoing professional development to ensure officers are prepared to serve the community safely and effectively.
California State Minimum Training
California Penal Code ยง 832 requires every person to satisfactorily complete an introductory training course prescribed by the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) prior to exercising the powers of a peace officer. Officers hired in California are required to complete a minimum of 664 hours of the Regular Basic Course, divided into 43 individual topics known as learning domains, which cover the foundational knowledge required of peace officers. Some departments, including RCPD, may require training beyond these state minimums to meet the needs of the community.
Police Academies
Redwood City Police Department recruits attend POST-certified basic academies operated by regional training consortiums and partner agencies, including:
- South Bay Regional Public Safety Training Consortium
- San Jose Police Department Academy
- Sacramento Police Department Academy
- Alameda County Sheriff's Office Academy
- Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office Academy
Each of these academies delivers the state-mandated Regular Basic Course curriculum to prepare recruits for the demands of modern policing.
Field Training & Probationary Period
Upon graduating from the academy, new officers enter a four-month field training program, during which they work directly alongside experienced Field Training Officers (FTOs) to apply academy instruction in real-world patrol settings. This period allows evaluators to assess an officer's decision-making, report writing, community interaction, and tactical skills before they are released to solo patrol. New officers remain on probationary status during this period and beyond, in accordance with Department policy.
Ongoing In-Service Training
Training does not end after field training. RCPD officers participate in regular in-service training throughout their careers to maintain proficiency and stay current on evolving laws, tactics, and best practices. This includes annual requalification, updates on legal changes, de-escalation and use-of-force training, and refreshers on Department policy.
Specialized POST Training Classes
Beyond baseline requirements, RCPD officers and supervisors complete specialized, POST-certified courses tied to their assignments and rank. Examples include supervisory and management courses, high-technology crimes training, crisis intervention and behavioral health response, K-9 and SWAT certifications, field training officer certification, and investigative and forensic specialty courses. These courses ensure personnel assigned to specialized units maintain the advanced skills their roles require.