Overview: What You Should Bring on Day One of Police Academy
Showing up to police academy fully prepared sets the tone for your entire experience. Many recruits arrive missing important items, which creates unnecessary stress and immediate negative attention from instructors. This checklist ensures you bring everything you need—not too much, not too little.
Documents to Bring
Most academies require important paperwork on day one. Bring:
- Government-issued ID
- Copies of academy acceptance letters
- Driver’s license and vehicle registration
- Any medical clearance forms
- Any immunization or vaccination records
Required Apparel
- Academy-issued or approved uniform
- PT clothing (shorts, shirts, compression shorts)
- Running shoes
- Broken-in duty boots
- Extra socks
Study and Organizational Supplies
- Durable notebook
- Black pens (multiple)
- Highlighters
- Index cards
- Binder and dividers
- Small folder for handouts
Hygiene and Personal Items
- Deodorant
- Body wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Foot powder
- Blister tape
- Compact first-aid items
Food, Water, and Energy
- Refillable water bottle
- Electrolyte packets
- Protein bars
- Light snacks (if allowed)
PT and Practical Training Supplies
Not required everywhere but useful:
- Athletic tape
- Knee sleeves or compression gear
- Simple stopwatch
- Comfortable towel
Optional But Helpful Items
- Notebook flashlight
- Breath mints
- Extra t-shirt or undershirt
- Small sewing kit
What NOT to Bring
- Weapons or unauthorized tactical gear
- Large pocketknives or multitools
- Overly flashy or nonstandard equipment
- Expensive electronics
Final Thoughts
Arriving organized and fully prepared reduces stress and demonstrates professionalism from day one. This packing checklist ensures you have the essentials for success at the academy.