How to Become a Deputy

Qualifications - same for both Field Operations Deputy and Court Services Deputy, however, job descriptions are different.

• What qualifications do I need to be considered for employment as a Deputy Sheriff
  • Be at least 21 years of age and a United States citizen.
  • Graduation from high school or high school equivalency
  • Possession of an appropriate driver’s license valid in the Commonwealth of Virginia

• Special requirements
  • Must meet and maintain all Stafford County Sheriff’s Office and the State Criminal Justice System training and education

• Automatic Disqualifiers
  • Conviction of any felony
  • Conviction of any misdemeanor that reflects moral turpitude or a tendency to disregard the law
  • Conviction for DUI related offense within five years of application
  • Conviction for two or more DUI and/or reckless driving offenses
  • Any conviction for reckless driving, hit and run, or other serious traffic offense within 24 months
  • Two or more moving violations within 12 months
  • Criminal Activity (Narcotics/Substance Abuse)
    • Automatic Disqualifying
      • Herioin/Opium or Derivatives*
      • Methadone
      • Crack Cocaine
      • PCP

*Examples of Opium Derivatives: The following drugs when used outside of prescribed use for legitimate medical reasons: Oxycodone/Oxycontin, Hydrocodone, Codeine, Methadone, Fentanyl, Morphine

• No marijuana usage within the previous 6 months
• Experimental use (1-3 times) of any other drug will be considered on an individual basis but must have not occurred within the past 5 years.
• Conviction of any drug offenses *

*Marijuana convictions will be evaluated on a case by case basis

Hiring Process - same for both Field Operations Deputy and Court Services Deputy, however, job descriptions are different.

The hiring process for a position with the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office takes approximately three months after the submission of an application.

Applicants must successfully complete the following steps:

• Online application submission.
• Physical abilities testing.
• Review of Stafford County Sheriff’s Office personal history statement.
• Panel interview.
• Conditional offer of employment.
• Polygraph exam.
• Background investigation.
• Contingent offer of employment.
• Medical Examination.
• Psychological examination.

Failing to keep an appointment in the selection process without notifying the Professional Standards Division can lead to automatic disqualification.

• Physical Abilities Test (PAT) - watch the video below to see how the PAT is conducted.

Tips for Success  -

• Be sure to fill out the Personal History Statement (PHS) completely
• Do not omit, falsify, minimize anything on your PHS
• Show up to appointments on time
• Respond to emails, phone call, and other communications from our HR in a timely and professional manner
• Dress professionally throughout each stage of the process

Failure to follow these tips may lead to disqualification.