> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://dpssop.equinoxroleplay.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# FTD - Solo Observation & Final Clearance

> Solo evaluation, three monitored shifts, release authorization, and post-training status.

# Solo Observation & Final Clearance

## Terminology

**Solo test** is an instructor-led assessment of a cadet's ability to manage calls and apply policy with minimal prompting. **Solo observation** is a monitored stage in which the cadet patrols in their own authorized unit while a designated FTO remains on duty and available. **Independent patrol clearance** is the final written authorization ending the cadet's field restrictions.

These are distinct actions; completion of one does not automatically grant the next.

## Eligibility

Before a cadet begins solo evaluation, the assigned FTS shall verify:

* Academy requirements and Phases 1–3 have been completed or formally waived by the Director.
* Required tracking sheets contain sufficient notes and review signatures.
* Reports demonstrate acceptable legal articulation and documentation.
* No unresolved safety, policy, or performance concern prevents the evaluation.
* A qualified FTI/FTS or specifically authorized evaluator is assigned to conduct the test.

## Solo Test

The evaluator shall observe decision-making, communications, scene safety, lawful stops and arrests, custody, de-escalation, and incident reports. The evaluator records **pass**, **needs remediation/retest**, or **incomplete** with supporting notes.

## Three Monitored Solo Shifts

The existing FTD program requires **three solo-observation shifts** after Phase 3. During this stage:

* The cadet operates an approved unit with an **on-duty FTO assigned and available to monitor**.
* When the required FTO coverage ends, the cadet **must end the solo-observation shift** rather than continue as an unrestricted patrol officer.
* The trainer reviews radio behavior, public/suspect interactions, policy compliance, and written reports.
* The trainer corrects reports and documents each shift's performance.
* A shift with insufficient supervision or an incomplete evaluation does not count toward the three qualifying shifts.

> [!WARNING]
>
> **Three shifts is a minimum observation requirement, not an automatic pass.** The FTD may extend observation or require remediation for documented deficiencies.

## Graduation & Independent Duty

1. The assigned FTO and evaluator submit all phase, solo-test, and shift documentation.
2. The FTS reviews the complete record and recommends release, extension, or remediation.
3. The **FTD Director**, or a specifically documented delegate, issues final independent-duty clearance.
4. Personnel administration updates the cadet's rank, permissions, roster, and training status **only after clearance is recorded**.
5. The cadet is informed of any continuing probationary restrictions applicable under DPS policy.

> [!NOTE]
>
> The source documents disagree on which training staff can grant final clearance (FTO, Head FTO/FTS, FTI, or FTD). This page adopts an explicit **FTD final-approval model proposed for command confirmation**. If current command has delegated release authority differently, update this rule before enforcement.


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