The Westchester County maintains a professional correctional facility including jail, penitentiary, and women's unit divisions. The position of Correction Officer is the entry level uniformed position for this department. Correction Officers are considered public officers and must meet all applicable requirements set forth in the New York State Public Officers Law.

The minimum requirements for examination and appointment are summarized in the following chart.

Basic Requirements for Correction Candidates
RequirementAt Time of ExamintationAt Time of Appointment
United States Citizenship No Yes
High School Diploma Yes Yes
Current NYS Drivers License No Yes
Minimum Age None 21
Maximum Age None None
Westchester County Legal Residency 30 days prior to examine date Yes
New York State Legal Residency 30 days prior to examine date Prior to appointment and throughout employment

In addition to the above, candidate must meet medical, physical agility and psychological standards in order to achieve a permanent appointment as a Correction Officer. The Correction Officer exam was held on June 24, 2023. This exam is usually given once every four years and candidates have to wait until the beginning of next application filing period to apply. You may sign up to receive e-mail notifications when new examinations are announced.

Special residency requirement for Correction Officer exam
Candidates must be legal residents of Westchester County for at least one month prior to the examination. You will be required to submit proof of legal residency when requested.  Candidates who cannot provide proof of Westchester County residency will be disqualified.

Learn more about the Department of Correction. Westchester County welcomes your interest in pursuing a career in law enforcement.