Law and order is maintained in Oklahoma’s 77 counties by their elected sheriffs who are assisted by the Oklahoma Sheriffs’ Association (OSA). The OSA provides the needed resources, education and training to all sheriff offices in the state to enable them to perform their duties properly.

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One of the largest law enforcement associations in the state, the OSA has 4,000 active members including Deputies, Reserve Deputies, Detention Officers and various other supporting staff. Having existed in various forms since 1910, it is committed to building a safer and stronger Oklahoma.

The current structure of the organization was prepared in 1991. If you aspire to become a sheriff in this great state, here are all the things you need to know.

Eligibility Criteria to Become a Sheriff in Oklahoma

You will need to fulfill the criteria outlined below if you want to become a sheriff in Oklahoma. Candidate:

  • Must be at least 25.
  • Must possess a high school diploma or an equivalent GED (General Educational Development) certificate.
  • Must have worked in the capacity of a duly certified peace officer for at least 4 years.
  • *The term “peace officer” refers to an elected or appointed full-time law enforcement officer who is paid for working over 25 hours a week. His/her duties include protecting the life and property of the people, preservation of public peace, fight crime, serve warrants and implement all federal, state and military laws along with local ordinances as and when required.

  • Must be an Oklahoma resident for at least 2 years.
  • Must be a registered voter of the county in which he/she seeks nomination.
  • OR

  • Must be registered independently for at least the previous 6 months in the county where he/she aims to be elected to the office of sheriff.
  • After being appointed to the office of sheriff, complete a sheriff’s administrative school designed by the Oklahoma Sheriffs’ Association (OSA) and approved by the Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET).

Oklahoma Sheriff Timeline

The state laws of Oklahoma require all sheriff aspirants to have served for at least 4 years as a duly certified peace officer. Prior to this, it will take you about 8 to 12 months to apply for this role, clear the selection procedure and complete police academy training. So, it will take you roughly 5 years or more to become a sheriff in Oklahoma. The time taken will also depend on the specific minimum work experience requirements of your chosen county.

What Salary Is Drawn by a Sheriff in Oklahoma?

In May, 2018, the annual mean wage for First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives in Oklahoma was $72,830. This is as per data provided by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.