The Chicago Ridge Police Department hires full-time officers in two separate ways.

Patrol Officer Eligibility Test

The Fire and Police Commission gives out applications for possible future employment. Applicants are required to have at least sixty (60) college credit hours. Two years of active military duty will be accepted in lieu college credit. Candidates must pass a written, physical, and oral interview to be placed on an eligibility list. This list is valid for two years. Additional testing is required for those candidates selected.

Lateral Police Officer

The Police Department also hires officers laterally. Applications are given to qualified candidates for these positions. Applicants must have at least twelve (12) months of service with one or more recognized police agencies and obtained certification through the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board as a full-time officer with current active or inactive status.  Anyone who was certified as part-time or who was decertified by the training board will not be considered. These candidates will also undergo a series of examinations prior to being selected. These applications are also kept for one year.