Skip to main content

​
Supervised Field Training Phases

The field program consists of three progressive phases. The same DPS SOP governs all phases. Increased independence is earned through documented competence and remains subject to trainer intervention for safety or legal compliance.

​
Phase 1 — Orientation & Guided Patrol

Trainer leads; cadet observes and participates with coaching.
  • Confirm onboarding and access are complete.
  • Review required SOP topics and quiz throughout the phase.
  • Demonstrate radio transmissions, lawful stops, scene roles, custody, evidence, and reports.
  • Allow the cadet to practice tasks under direct supervision.
  • Log completed tasks and specific observations in the approved Field Training Tracking Sheet.
A prior FTD guide contemplated holding back cadets who fail half of the phase questions. Treat that as a review/remediation trigger, with the approved question-bank scoring rule set by FTD leadership; do not auto-graduate a cadet with uncorrected knowledge gaps.

​
Phase 2 — Cadet-Led Patrol With Coaching

Cadet drives and conducts routine duties; FTO observes from the passenger seat.
  • Cadet uses an authorized motorpool training vehicle (historically a Torrance) unless FTD approves an equivalent.
  • Cadet initiates radio traffic, traffic stops, interviews, investigations, and documentation.
  • FTO provides guidance when needed, particularly before legal or safety errors occur.
  • Trainer administers assigned Phase 2 questions and observes required competencies.
  • All tracking entries require meaningful notes and corrective feedback.

​
Phase 3 — Near-Independent Performance

Cadet leads the shift; trainer intervenes only as necessary.
  • Cadet plans responses and manages routine patrol with limited prompting.
  • Trainer evaluates judgment, communication, procedural compliance, and reporting.
  • Cadet completes Phase 3 questions and all required tracking tasks.
  • FTO notifies the FTS / designated Head FTO that the tracking sheet is ready for review.
  • FTS confirms completeness and readiness for the solo evaluation; the Director may review or overrule based on documented grounds.

​
Phase Advancement

A phase is complete only when required tasks are assessed, deficiencies are addressed, notes are entered, and the authorized reviewer records a decision. A failed or incomplete task may lead to additional supervised shifts or focused remediation; passage of time alone does not establish competence.

​
Trainer Records

For each evaluated shift, record the date, cadet, assigned FTO, patrol phase, activities observed, strengths, deficiencies, corrective coaching, report review, and recommendation.