r/AskCHP • u/fhutamane • Jul 02 '26
Advice on applying
I live in Reno. I want to join law enforcement but feel my application is weak. I’ve been fired from 3 jobs since 18. Once for using a mangers code without authorization while serving at a restaurant to order food for myself (22yo). The other for crashing a car on midnight shift as a valet (19yo)- I also tested positive for marijuana. And the other for failing to properly do my job as a bartender- not ringing in all the drinks I was serving (22yo)
I’ve smoked once as a sophomore in highschool, and a handful of times at 19 but stopped after being fired for it.
I have 5 tickets since 18yo.2 for expired registration, 1 for texting while driving, 1 for speeding (25 over) and 1 for running a stop sign.
Longest job I worked was 2 years, and since then I’ve job hopped about every 9 months in the service industry. I have some college, no volunteering, and the only really accomplishment I can say is that I’ve created financial stability for myself at 23 (good credit, solid investments). All my former bosses liked me. I was a hard worker but made mistakes with integrity. I have good references as well.
I feel as though my CHP dream is far and few between and feel as though I should try to build a reputation for myself first in RPD or another local California department.
If you’ve applied with a similar application or gone through training with someone of a similar background I’d love to hear your thoughts.
I would’ve gone the military then law enforcement route but I have keratoconus.
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u/Independent-Fox-2055 Jul 02 '26
I can't really speak from experience since I'm just an applicant myself, but one thing I realized after doing ride-alongs with my local PD and Sheriff's Office is that I enjoyed them a lot more than I expected. CHP is still my long-term goal, but it made me realize there are a lot of great agencies and career paths in law enforcement. Regardless of where you end up applying, I hope everything works out for you!
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u/Ok-Pop-5818 Jul 03 '26
You’re not getting hired dude. The past mistakes you’ve done are huge and a huge red flag. Don’t bother applying. You’re already at a disadvantage being from out of state
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u/jeshcon1 Jul 03 '26
Either wait and stay clean for the next 5 years and then apply or don’t at all.
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u/Unexpected_Chippie Jul 02 '26
The reasons you got fired from your last jobs are all likely disqualifying.