Citizen Police Academy

The Citizen Police Academy (CPA) is a 13-week course where citizens learn about the SAPD.

Those who graduate can become an active CPA Alumni Association (CPAAA) member. Members meet every two months to discuss operations and needs within the Department.

Citizen Police Academy Topics

  • Civilian Response to Active Shooter
  • Criminal Investigations
  • Firearms Training and the Firearms Training Simulator (FATS)
  • K-9 Unit
  • SAFFE/Cellular on Patrol
  • Special Weapons & Tactics (SWAT)
  • Vice/Internet Crimes
  • Helicopter Unit
  • Street Crimes Unit
  • Identity Theft

Classes

Participants meet one night a week, usually Tuesday, from 7 - 10 p.m.

Classes take place at the San Antonio Police Department Training Academy and at Public Safety Headquarters.

2024 - 2025 Schedules

  • 2024 - C: September 17 - December 10, 2024
  • 2025 - A: January 7 - April 1, 2025
  • 2025 - B: April 15 - July 8, 2025
  • 2025 - C: September 16 - December 9, 2025

Locations

SAPD Training Academy

12200 SE Loop 410
San Antonio, TX 78221
Directions

Public Safety Headquarters

San Antonio Police Department
315 S. Santa Rosa
San Antonio, TX 78207
Directions

Apply

Any San Antonio resident who is at least 18 years old and has good standing in the community is welcome to apply to the Citizen Police Academy.

Applicants will be background checked, and must submit an application before being considered for the program.

Online

Submit application

Apply Online

NOTE: A Program Coordinator will contact you.

By Mail

Step 1.Review requirements

  • Must be a San Antonio resident
  • Must be at least 18 years old at time of application
  • Must have good standing in the community

Step 2.Download and complete the application

Step 3.Mail in your application

Complete and sign the application and send to:

SAPD Training Academy
12200 S.E. Loop 410
San Antonio, TX 78221

Step 4.Pass the background check

SAPD will run a background check and notify you of the results of your application.