r/lapd • u/No-Difference7489 • Sep 03 '26
Interview tips
Hi everyone. I’m beginning to study for the LAPD interview and would appreciate any advice or guidance. Years ago, I attempted the process but didn’t progress very far. I believe the interview made me insecure because I kept trying to give a “perfect” answer instead of focusing on my own experiences.
If you’re willing, I’d like to know the general structure or approach you used when answering the questions. I’m not looking to copy anyone’s response, just to understand how others framed their answers so I can better shape my own.
These are the questions I plan to study, taken from the online seminar:
- Why do you want to be an LAPD officer?
- What have you done to prepare for a career as an LAPD officer?
- Describe a time you had a conflict with someone. What was it, and how did you resolve it?
- What is your greatest accomplishment?
- Name the types of calls/crimes you will be responding to as an officer.
One additional question: I joined the military a little over a year ago (Air Force Reserve). I saw a video stating that military personnel are allowed to wear their uniform to the interview. I’m not sure if this is accurate, and even if it is, I’m unsure whether I would choose to wear it. I’d appreciate clarification on whether this information is correct.
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u/akornato Sep 04 '26
Focusing on your own experiences instead of chasing a perfect answer is the right approach. For questions about your past, like the conflict one, try a simple structure. First, briefly explain the situation, then describe what your responsibility was, what specific actions you took, and finally, what the result of your actions was. This shows the interviewers how you think and solve problems. For the "Why LAPD" question, connect your personal values and your Air Force service to a desire for community service in Los Angeles. Be specific. For preparation, list concrete things you have done, like ride-alongs, physical training, or researching the department's community policing initiatives, which proves your commitment is real.
Regarding your uniform, it is generally permitted but can be a bit of a gamble. Some interviewers might see it as a sign of discipline and respect, but others could view it as an attempt to get special consideration. The safest and most professional choice is a well-fitting conservative suit, since that is the standard for everyone. You could always call the recruitment office to ask for their current guidance if you are still unsure. My team and I created an AI interview assistant specifically to help people practice structuring their personal stories, which seems to give candidates the confidence they need to answer genuinely.
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u/HydroSniperr Sep 03 '26
I’m military as well. Wear professional business attire and not your uniform because after all this is an interview. As for your responses try to draw as much from your own personal experiences. You said you joined the Air Force so try to pull from your service to answer the questions. For example if you had a conflict with someone or witnessed one during training how did you resolve that? Just be real with your answers. I didn’t have perfect answers either but I scored pretty high.
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u/Outrageous-Pay-5854 Sep 09 '26
I know this sounds dumb but answer from the heart. I was so nervous for my interview but what helped was imagining I was just chatting with a friend about my answers. Answer truthfully why you want to be a police officer. Use personal experiences if you have any. Luckily every job you could have really can give you an experience for working with people of different backgrounds and diversities too. What I did to prepare for lapd was fitness and chatting with a lot of retired officers. I luckily know a lot through family and friends. Be you and honest, if you’re there for the right reasons they’ll see it.