Secretary John R. Griffin
Maryland Logo Governor Martin O'Malley Lt. Governor Anthony G. Brown
 Contact Us Department of Natural Resources
 ADA   |   Español   |   Site Map   |   DNR Phone Book   |   Park Amenities
  Welcome from
  Col. George Johnson IV
Photo of Col. George Johnson IV
  Become an Officer
  Volunteer
  Contact Us
  Boating
  Fishing
  Hunting
  Stats
  NRP Home
Welcome to the official website of the Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP)
Officer speaking with some boaters The Maryland Natural Resources Police are recognized nationally as a symbol of professionalism and leadership in the field of conservation and boating law enforcement. In order to be accepted into the application process you must:
  • Be a United States Citizen
  • Possess a High School Diploma or GED
  • Possess a valid Driver's License in any state and a satisfactory driving record
  • Binocular far and near visual acuity, with or without correction, must be 20/20
  • Be at least 21 years old.
  • Be in excellent physical condition
  • Have a good reputation and sound moral character
  • Not have any current court orders relating to domestic violence
  • Be truthful in every stage of the application process
If you possess the minimum qualifications listed above, we encourage you to apply.

If you have any questions about these qualifications, please contact the Recruitment Office.

We are currently recruiting for Certified Officers and Entry Level.


If you think you are ready to accept the responsibility of being one of the nation’s best conservation law enforcement officers, you’ll be rewarded with a challenging job. For those special individuals willing to meet the challenge, there is no doubt that a career with the Natural Resources Police offers a chance to serve Maryland proudly and provides incentives to be considered when choosing a career. Congratulations on taking that first step.


The selection process could consist of a physical fitness assessment, written examination, polygraph, background investigation, medical and psychological examinations, and oral interview. The selection process is briefly described below.

Physical Fitness Assessment
You will be evaluated based on a standardized set of criteria. The standards are as follows:

  • Push-Ups: eighteen (18) in one minute
  • Sit-Ups: twenty-seven (27) in one minute
  • Flexibility: approximately 1.5 inches beyond toes (while seated)
  • 1.5 Mile Run: maximum time of 15 minutes and 20 seconds (15:20)
  • Handgun Trigger Pull: must pull trigger ten (10) times with each hand

Written Examination
You will complete a multiple-choice written examination based upon general knowledge questions dealing with general math, spelling and reading comprehension.

Polygraph & Background Investigation
You must submit to a detailed polygraph examination. In addition, an investigator will research your background by contacting your friends, relatives, employers, schools, etc.

Oral Interview
If you successfully complete the polygraph and background investigations you may be scheduled for an oral interview.

Medical & Psychological Examinations
If you successfully complete all steps listed above you may receive a Conditional Offer of Employment. After the conditional offer of employment, you will undergo extensive medical and psychological screenings.

PLEASE NOTE:

It is the goal of the Maryland Natural Resources Police to hire applicants who possess the qualifications and the dedication to become a Maryland Natural Resources Police Officer. Please understand that if you successfully complete all phases of this process, you MAY receive a Final Offer of Employment. Candidates are hired based upon the needs of the Department. Successful completion of all phases of the hiring process does not guarantee a Final Offer of Employment.


© Copyright 1995-2008 Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
For reproduction and digital permissions