Chapter 109:2-1 | Basic Training Program

Rule 109:2-1-02 | Definitions.

• Effective: January 16, 2016
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

When used in Chapter 109:2-1 of the Administrative Code

(A) "Commission" means the Ohio peace officer training commission;

(B) "Commander" means the director or other head of a peace officer training school;

(C) "Executive director" means the executive director of the Ohio peace officer training commission;

(D) "Basic course" means the training prescribed in rule 109:2-1-16 of the Administrative Code which has been approved by the executive director, in writing, as meeting or exceeding the minimum standards prescribed in rule 109:2-1-16 of the Administrative Code;

(E) "Peace officer" means:

(1) Any person appointed as a peace officer pursuant to division (A) of section 109.71 of the Revised Code.

(2) Any other person designated as such for purposes of peace officer training and certification by the Ohio general assembly.

(F) "School" means any basic training program for peace officers as certified by the executive director of the Ohio peace officer training commission;

(G) "Statutorily mandated training" means training required by the legislature pursuant to sections 109.73, 109.741, 109.742, 109.744, 109.745, and 109.747 of the Revised Code.

(H) "Training recruit" means a fulltime employee of a law enforcement agency whose primary duty is to attend and successfully complete the basic course and who, upon completion of the basic course, is appointed as a peace officer by that agency;

(I) "Open enrollment student" means a person who is not employed by a law enforcement agency and has not received an appointment as a peace officer, but has successfully completed all basic school admission requirements of the Ohio peace officer training commission.

(J) "Peace officer disqualifying offense" means any offense which would preclude an individual from performing the functions of a peace officer, including any offense under section 2923.13 of the Revised Code.

(K) "Trooper" means an individual appointed as a state highway patrol trooper under section 5503.01 of the Revised Code.

(L) "Veteran" means anyone who is serving or has served under honorable conditions in any component of the armed forces, including the national guard and reserve.

Last updated November 4, 2024 at 1:28 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 109.74
Amplifies: 109.73, 109.75
Five Year Review Date: 10/17/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 3/31/1966

Rule 109:2-1-03 | Ohio peace officer basic training program course.

• Effective: January 1, 2017
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) Who is required to complete the basic course:

(1) Those persons set out in division (A) of section 109.71 of the Revised Code;

(2) A training recruit as defined in paragraph (H) of rule 109:2-1-02 of the Administrative Code;

(3) Any person employed in a position statutorily required to complete the basic training course.

(B) Who may attend the basic course

(1) An open enrollment student as defined in paragraph (I) of rule 109:2-1-02 of the Administrative Code.

(C) No person shall attend the basic course if any of the following apply:

(1) The person is subject to a weapons disability pursuant to section 2923.13 of the Revised Code;

(2) The person is under indictment, has pleaded guility to or been convicted of a felony;

(3) The person is currently registering as a sex offender, child-victim offender, or arson offender;

(4) The person is under indictment or otherwise charged with an offense under Chapter 2925., 3719., or 4729. of the Revised Code that involves the illegal possession, use, sale, administration, or distribution of or trafficking in a drug of abuse; a misdemeanor offense of violence; or a violation of section 2903.14 of the Revised Code.

(5) Except as otherwise provided in paragraphs (C)(1), (C)(2), or (C)(3) of this rule, the person, within three years of applying to attend the basic course, has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to an offense under Chapter 2925, 3719, or 4729 of the Revised Code that involves the illegal possession, use, sale, administration, or distribution of or trafficking in a drug of abuse; or has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor offense of violence;

(6) Except as otherwise provided in paragraphs (C)(1), (C)(2), or (C)(3) of this rule, the person, within three years of applying to attend the basic course, has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to an offense under Chapter 2913. of the Revised Code or a municipal ordinance that is substantially similar to an offense under Chapter 2913. of the Revised Code.

(D) All persons attending the basic course shall possess a high school diploma or certificate of high school equivalency.

(E) Statement of purpose.

(1) It shall be clearly understood that the basic course described is designed as an absolute minimum program. Commanders are encouraged to exceed this minimum program wherever possible.

(2) Nothing in this chapter shall limit or be construed as limiting the authority of a commander, the civil service commission, or other appointing authority, to enact rules and regulations which establish a higher standard of training above the minimum required by the rules of this chapter.

(F) Local matters

Instruction in such matters as department rules and regulations, local ordinances, personnel policies and procedures may be given entirely upon local initiative. No portion of the instructional time devoted to this training or other non-commission required topics shall be credited against the hours of instruction required under rule 109:2-1-16 of the Administrative Code.

Last updated September 9, 2025 at 10:34 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 109.74
Amplifies: 109.73, 109.75
Five Year Review Date: 8/8/2030
Prior Effective Dates: 3/1/1982

Rule 109:2-1-04 | Approval of schools.

• Effective: March 2, 2015
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) Schools which meet all of the requirements set forth in rules 109:2-1-05, 109:2-1-06, 109:2-1-08, and 109:2-1-16 of the Administrative Code shall be approved by the executive director. The approval shall be given in writing.

(B) Schools may, in addition to those requirements set forth in paragraph (A) of this rule, require that each person enrolled in training sanctioned by the commission be given a physical examination, a psychological examination, and a background investigation to determine fitness and eligibility for attending and completing the basic course. Any person determined to be unfit or ineligible will not be admitted to any training that is a component of the basic course.

(C) Request for school approval.

Twenty-one calendar days prior to the start of a training school, the commander shall forward to the executive director, an application package which shall include forms required by the executive director.

(D) Revocation of school approval.

(1) The executive director may revoke the approval of any school for failure to maintain the minimum state standards as set forth in this rule and rules 109:2-1-05, 109:2-1-06, 109:2-1-08, and 109:2-1-16 of the Administrative Code or any other rule or policy established by the Ohio peace officer training commission for conducting the basic training program. The executive director shall notify the commander of the school in writing of this revocation and shall advise the commander that the commander may request a hearing before the commission as provided in sections 119.06 and 119.07 of the Revised Code. The commission shall conduct the hearing as required by sections 119.01 to 119.13 of the Revised Code.

(E) Enrollees, instructors and time for school.

The commander must have prior written approval from the executive director to conduct the school. The school:

(1) Must have a minimum of ten students enrolled.

(2) Must have a minimum of ten commission-approved instructors.

(3) May not extend more than one year.

(4) For any deviation from paragraph (E)(1), (E)(2) or (E)(3) of this rule, the commander must have prior written approval from the executive director.

(F) Within three calendar days after the school has begun, the commander shall forward to the executive director, on forms supplied by the executive director, a revised student enrollment list and an enrollment package which shall include, for each enrollee, forms required by the executive director.

Last updated February 18, 2025 at 7:38 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 109.74
Amplifies: 109.73, 109.75
Five Year Review Date: 2/14/2030
Prior Effective Dates: 12/19/1970

Rule 109:2-1-05 | Approval of school commanders.

• Effective: July 1, 2017
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

Each commander is required to have the approval of the executive director to conduct a school. Such approval will be based upon the submission of a typewritten statement of qualifications by the person seeking approval to be designated a commander on a form prescribed by the executive director. All persons seeking approval to be a school commander on or after January 1, 2000, who have not previously been designated a school commander shall conform to the minimum qualifications for certification as a commander and must be associated with an established or proposed school.

(A) Minimum qualifications for certification of commander shall be as follows:

(1) High school graduate or possession of a "General Education Development" certificate; and

(2) Seven years of experience as a full-time law enforcement officer, two of which must be as a full-time law enforcement supervisor;

(3) Completion of ninety quarter hours or sixty semester hours at an accredited college or university.; and

(4) Professional references from three current police administrators of the rank of lieutenant or above; and

(5) No convictions for a felony, crime of moral turpitude, offense of violence, sexually oriented or child-victim oriented offense, or any other peace officer disqualifying offense.

(6) For applicants applying to be commanders on or after the date of this amendment, completion of a commander training program approved by the executive director.

(B) Upon receipt and verification of a application form for commander certification and completion of an Ohio peace officer training commission commander conference, the executive director may issue a certificate to the applicant. Should the executive director refuse to issue a certificate, the notice of this action shall be sent to the applicant. Unless the decision was of a ministerial nature, the applicant shall be advised that he or she may request a hearing before the commission as provided in sections 119.06 and 119.07 of the Revised Code. The commission shall conduct the hearing as required by sections 119.01 to 119.13 of the Revised Code.

(C) Certification shall be renewed every five years. At least sixty days and no more than ninety days prior to expiration of the certificate, the individual shall submit, on a form prescribed by the executive director, an application for renewal that indicates the applicant has complied with the following:

(1) The applicant has conducted a least two basic training academies within the renewal period;

(2) The applicant has attended at least one commander conference within the renewal period if commander conferences are offered; and

(3) The applicant has completed at least twenty-four hours of training relevant to conducting and overseeing a peace officer basic training academy.

(D) Denial of issuance or renewal of certificate, or revocation of certificate

The executive director shall deny, refuse to renew, or revoke the certification of any commander for the following reasons:

(1) Failure to meet the minimum qualifications for certification of a commander listed in paragraph (A) of this rule

(2) A commander's evaluation reflecting unacceptable performance; or

(3) Conviction for a felony, crime of moral turpitude, offense of violence, sexually oriented or child-victim oriented offense, or any other peace officer disqualifying offense; or

(4) Absence from two consecutive commander's conferences; or

(5) Violation of rules promulgated under this chapter; or

(6) For any other good cause shown.

The executive director shall notify the commander in writing of this decision. Unless the decision was of a ministerial nature, the commander shall be advised that he or she may request a hearing before the commission as provided in sections 119.06 and 119.07 of the Revised Code. The commission shall conduct the hearing as required by sections 119.01 to 119.13 of the Revised Code.

(E) Suspension of certificate

The executive director may suspend the certification of any commander that is charged with felony, crime of moral turpitude, offense of violence, sexually oriented or child-victim oriented offense, or any other peace officer disqualifying offense. The executive director shall notify the commander in writing of this decision. The commander shall be advised that he or she may request a hearing before the commission as provided in sections 119.06 and 119.07 of the Revised Code. The commission shall conduct the hearing as required by sections 119.01 to 119.13 of the Revised Code.

Last updated August 13, 2025 at 8:42 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 109.74
Amplifies: 109.73, 109.75
Five Year Review Date: 7/18/2030
Prior Effective Dates: 1/15/1988, 12/7/1996

Rule 109:2-1-06 | Approval of instructors.

• Effective: February 12, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) All persons requesting initial certification as an instructor shall submit an application for each subject or unit of subjects for which the person is seeking to instruct. The application shall be made in the form and manner prescribed by the executive director. Instructor certifications awarded or renewed under this rule are valid for three years.

(B) The minimum qualifications for unit instructor certification shall be as follows:

(1) High school graduate or possession of a "General Education Development" certificate;

(2) Five years of relevant, full-time law enforcement experience;

(3) Completion of either of the following:

(a) An instructor training program approved by the executive director consisting of a minimum of forty clock hours, including instruction in the theories of learning and adult education, teaching techniques, lesson plan development and usage, behavioral objectives, student evaluation and measurement, role playing, the use of audio-visual aids and an exercise in practice teaching; or

(b) An instructor-level training program approved by the executive director, which will allow a person to learn specific knowledge and skills in a unit for which certification is requested.

(4) Recommendation of a current basic training school commander.

(C) The minimum qualifications for special subject instructor certification shall be as follows:

(1) A high school graduate or possession of a "General Education Development" certificate;

(2) Either of the following:

(a) Posession of a license under Ohio law in a particular discipline related to the special subject area to be taught; or

(b) Recognition for comptenecy in law enforcement related areas such as probation, corrections, health, fire, drug enforcement, traffic or other special subject or skill areas in which the perosn has a minumum of five years of full-time experience and training in the subject area to be taught.

(3) Recommendation of a current basic training school commander;

(4) Special subject instructors shall not be eligible for approval for the driving or firearms units and in no case shall a special subject instructor be approved for more than five topics in the basic course.

(D) Notwithstanding paragraphs (B) and (C) of this rule, certain subjects or units of subjects may require specialized knowledge or skills that differ from or exceed the minimum requirements.

(1) When the executive director determines that the standard qualifications under paragraphs (B) and (C) of this rule are not suitable for a particular subject or unit, the executive director may recommend, and the commission may approve, a distinct set of qualifications specific to that content area. The recommendation may contain one or more ways to demonstrate that an individual is qualified to instruct specific content.

(2) If approved by the commission, the qualifications adopted under paragraph (D)(1) of this rule shall stand for the subject or unit of subjects.

(E) Renewal and reinstatement of unit and special subject instructor certification:

(1) Instructors certified under this rule may apply to have their certification renewed if the instructor remains qualified. Not more than ninety days prior to the expiration of the certification, but prior to the date on which the certification expires, an instructor seeking renewal shall request renewal in the form and manner prescribed by the executive director. The renewal request shall include:

(a) Written evidence from the educational or training facility where the instructor received the training documenting that the instructor has successfully completed, within the past three years, a minimum of twenty-four clock hours of training in topics related to the basic training curriculum.

(b) Written evidence from the school commander or administrator that the instructor has taught in two approved peace officer basic training schools for a minimum total of twenty-four teaching hours within the past three years.

(c) Any additional information the executive director deems necessary.

(2) Instructors certified as special subject instructors may apply to have their certification renewed if the instructor remains qualified. Not more than ninety days prior to the expiration of the certification, but prior to the date on which the certification expires, an instructor seeking renewal shall request renewal in the form and manner prescribed by the executive director. The renewal request shall include:

(a) Written evidence from the educational or training facility where the instructor received the training documenting that the instructor has successfully completed, within the past three years, a minimum of twelve clock hours of training in topics related to the basic training curriculum.

(b) Written evidence from the school commander or administrator that the instructor has taught in two approved peace officer basic training schools for a minimum total of twelve teaching hours within the past three years.

(c) Any additional information the executive director deems necessary.

(3) An instructor whose certification has lapsed may apply for reinstatement. A reinstatement request can be made any time after the expiration of the certification and shall be made in the form and manner prescribed by the executive director. The reinstatement request shall include:

(a) Written evidence from the educational or training facility where the instructor received the training documenting that the instructor has successfully completed, within the past three years, a minimum of twenty-four clock hours of training in each unit or twelve clock hours in each special subject in which the instructor is requesting reinstatement.

(b) Any additional information the executive director deems necessary.

(4) Any changes to unit and special instructor certification standards approved by the commission shall apply to all initial and reinstatement applications received on or after the date on which the standards were approved by the commission.

(5) Any changes to unit and special instructor certification standards approved by the commission shall apply to instructors with an active instructor certification in the unit or special subject by the date set by the commission.

(F) The executive director may deny, revoke, suspend, or refuse to reinstate a person's certificate under this section if any of the following occur:

(1) The person failed to meet application, renewal, or reinstatement requirements;

(2) The person has unacceptable performance evaluations;

(3) The person was convicted of a criminal of an offense under the Revised Code or substantially similar offense in another jurisdiction;

(4) The person obtained, maintained, or renewed a certificate through fraud, misrepresentation, or deceit;

(5) The person's conduct, regardless of whether formal charges or discipline occurred, demonstrates the lack of character necessary to provide instruction to law enforcement officers in the name of commission and state of Ohio. Such conduct may include, but is not limited to, an abuse of the authority or trust associated with professional role; engaging in sexual harassment or sexual assault; committing fraud, theft, or other acts of dishonesty; use of force in a manner that is excessive or unjustified under applicable law or policy; or any other good cause that would reflect poorly upon the commission should the instructor remain certified.

(6) The person knowingly failed to disclose any of the following to the executive director within fourteen days of the occurrence in the manner prescribed by the executive director:

(a) Being charged with any criminal offense in the United States;

(b) Being placed under suspension, administrative leave, or under formal investigation by a professional licensing board in any jurisdiction within the United States, for conduct involving dishonesty, abuse of authority, unlawful use of force, sexual misconduct, or other disqualifying behavior under this rule; or

(c) Being placed under suspension, on administrative leave, or formal investigation by the person's employer for conduct involving dishonesty, abuse of authority, unlawful use of force, sexual misconduct, or other disqualifying behavior under this rule.

(G) Instructor certificate suspension

(1) An individual is ineligible to serve as commission approved instructor, or renew, or reinstate their certificate while it is suspended under this rule.

(2) A certificate suspension may be imposed for a definite or indefinite term.

(a) For suspensions of a definite term, the order shall specify the duration of the suspension. Unless further administrative action is taken, and the certificate remains valid, the certificate shall be reinstated automatically upon conclusion of the suspension period.

(b) For suspensions of an indefinite term, the order shall specify the conditions for reinstatement. These conditions may include:

(i) Completion of a minimum suspension period;

(ii) Completion of additional education or training;

(iii) Compliance with all terms, conditions, or limitations as part of the suspension;

(iv) Resolution of the charges or allegations in the individual's favor.

(H) Instructor certificate revocation

(1) An individual is ineligible to serve as commission approved instructor, or renew, or reinstate their certificate once it has been revoked under this rule.

(2) The executive director shall not issue an instructor certificate to an individual if the individual's certification to instruct units or special subjects has previously been revoked.

Last updated February 12, 2026 at 8:21 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 109.74
Amplifies: 109.73, 109.75
Five Year Review Date: 7/18/2030
Prior Effective Dates: 3/1/1982, 1/1/2000

Rule 109:2-1-07 | Certificate of completion.

• Effective: June 9, 2006
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) Upon successful completion of an approved peace officer basic training course, a person appointed to a peace officer position described in division (A) of section 109.71 of the Revised Code or a person employed in a position statutorily required to complete the basic training course, shall be awarded a certificate of completion by the executive director.

(B) A person successfully completing a basic course who is not a peace officer or who is not statutorily required to complete training and receive certification will be issued a letter of completion by the executive director.

(1) If within one year of the completion of training, the person receives an appointment as a peace officer or is employed in a position that statutorily requires a basic training certificate, a certificate of completion will be awarded provided no additional training requirements have been mandated. If additional training requirements have been mandated, this additional training must be completed before a basic training certificate is awarded.

(2) If more than one year but less than two years after completion of training, a person receives an appointment as a peace officer or obtains employment in a position that statutorily requires peace officer certification, the person shall attend the refresher course prescribed by the executive director before the person may perform the functions of a peace officer. Upon completion of the prescribed refresher course, a certificate of completion of basic training will be awarded. If the person does not complete the refresher course within one year of the appointment date, the person shall not be eligible to receive a certificate and will be required to repeat the entire basic training course.

(3) If more than two years after completion of training a person does not receive an appointment as a peace officer, the person shall successfully complete the peace officer basic training course before he or she may perform the functions of a peace officer.

(4) If a member of the national guard or a military reservist is mobilized to active duty in the uniformed services after completion of training and prior to appointment as a peace officer, the time in active duty in the uniformed services shall not be included in calculating the period of time after completion of training for purposes of paragraphs (B)(2) and (B)(3) of this rule.

Last updated May 11, 2026 at 10:16 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 109.74
Amplifies: 109.73, 109.75, 109.751, 109.77
Five Year Review Date: 4/2/2031
Prior Effective Dates: 12/8/1970

Rule 109:2-1-08 | School facilities.

• Effective: January 1, 2000
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

Each school shall have available:

(A) A classroom with adequate heating, lighting, ventilation and restroom facilities;

(B) A chalkboard and chalk, or equivalent;

(C) Tables and chairs suitable for writing or seats with an arm for writing;

(D) Audio visual equipment;

(E) A lectern, stand, or table for the instructor's use;

(F) A gymnasium or large indoor area for teaching defensive tactics and other physical skills topics supplied with appropriate training and safety equipment;

(G) Access to a commission-approved firearms range;

(H) Access to a commission-approved driving range.

(I) Any other equipment or facilities as required by the executive director.

Last updated September 18, 2025 at 2:03 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: –
Amplifies: –
Five Year Review Date:
Prior Effective Dates: 3/1/1982, 1/1/1988

Rule 109:2-1-09 | Attendance.

• Effective: July 1, 2014
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) Attendance shall be required of each individual at all sessions of the basic course.

(B) The commander shall be responsible for maintaining an accurate record of attendance for each student attending the basic course. The commander shall forward such records to the executive director at the completion of training.

Last updated December 5, 2023 at 10:58 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 109.74
Amplifies: 109.73, 109.75
Five Year Review Date: 11/16/2028
Prior Effective Dates: 12/18/1970, 3/1/1982

Rule 109:2-1-10 | Notebook and eligibility requirements for the state certification examination.

• Effective: January 1, 2000
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) Each individual in the basic course shall maintain a notebook during the course and shall submit such notebook to the commander for inspection. The notebook shall be evaluated as satisfactory or unsatisfactory by the commander. The notebook shall contain appropriate entries of pertinent material covered during the classroom sessions of the basic course. Among the factors to be evaluated in the notebook are: sufficiency of course content, organization, appropriateness of material, regularity of entries, neatness, accuracy and legibility. Notebooks and the grades assigned to them by the commander are subject to review by the executive director at any time.

(B) No person shall participate in the final written examination who has been evaluated as unsatisfactory for units of instruction in driving, first aid, firearms and unarmed self-defense; the student notebook or any other area designated by the Ohio general assembly or the commission.

Last updated September 18, 2025 at 2:03 PM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: –
Amplifies: –
Five Year Review Date:
Prior Effective Dates: 3/31/1966, 3/1/1982, 1/1/1988

Rule 109:2-1-11 | Examination.

• Effective: May 29, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) The Ohio peace officer training commission will prepare and facilitate a final examination for each person completing the basic course at a commission-approved basic training school or has successfully completed the application process set forth in paragraph (B) of rule 109:2-12 of the Administrative Code. Each student recommended for certification must pass the final written examination with a minimum score to be determined by the commission.

(1) The results of this examination shall be made known to the commander within five business days of the date administered. Individuals failing to achieve the designated minimum score shall be given one retest. This test must be completed within the window of testing eligibility provided to the student.

(2) The results of the retest shall be made known to the commander within five business days of the date administered. Students who fail the retest shall not be permitted to take the final written examination again until they successfully complete another peace officer basic training course at a commission-approved basic training school. Applicants under paragraph (B) of rule 109:2-12 of the Administrative Code who fail the retest shall not be permitted to take the final examination again until they complete a peace officer basic training course at a commission-approved basic training school.

(B) The Ohio peace officer training commission will prepare and facilitate an examination for each person seeking prior equivalency certification under paragraph (B)(3) of rule 109:2-1-12 of the Administrative Code. The examination shall assess the prior equivalency applicant's knowledge of constitutional and statutory law specific to Ohio. Each prior equivalency applicant seeking certification under paragraph (B)(3) of rule 109:2-1-12 of the Administrative Code must pass the written examination with a minimum score to be determined by the commission.

(1) The results of this examination shall be made known to the prior equivalency applicant within five business days of the date administered. Persons failing to achieve the designated minimum score shall be given one retest. This test must be completed within the window of testing eligibility provided to the student.

(2) The results of the retest shall be made known to the prior equivalency applicant within five business days of the date administered. Applicants who fail the retest shall not be permitted to take the written examination described in paragraph (B) of this rule. The applicant will not be permitted to complete the written examination described in paragraph (A) of this rule unless and until the applicant successfully completes a peace officer basic training course at a commission-approved basic training school.

(3) No applicant shall be permitted to take or retake the test specified in paragraph (B) of this rule if any of following apply:

(a) One or more of the circumstances set forth in paragraph (C) of rule 109:2-1-03 of the Administrative Code;

(b) The applicant has previously been demoted, discharged, or resigned in connection with one or more of the circumstances set forth in paragraph (C) of rule 109:2-1-03 of the Administrative Code;

(c) The applicant has previously been demoted, discharged, or resigned in connection with conduct involving dishonesty, alleged criminal misconduct, or an alleged violations of a citizen's civil rights;

(d) The applicant's certificate or license to function as a peace officer has previously been surrendered or revoked in any jurisdiction, is currently suspended in any jurisdiction, or is subject to pending disciplinary action in any jurisdiction.

Last updated May 29, 2026 at 7:54 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 109.73, 109.74
Amplifies: 109.73, 109.74
Five Year Review Date: 7/18/2030
Prior Effective Dates: 1/1/1988, 8/21/1990, 4/21/2022

Rule 109:2-1-12 | Certification before service and re-entry requirements.

• Effective: May 29, 2026
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A)

(1) No person shall receive an original appointment on a permanent basis as a peace officer unless such person has previously been awarded a certificate by the executive director attesting to satisfactory completion of the basic course prescribed in rule 109:2-1-16 of the Administrative Code, or certificate issued in accordance with paragraph (B) of this rule;

(2) No person shall be permitted to perform the functions of a peace officer or to carry a weapon in connection with peace officer duties unless such person has successfully completed the basic course and has been awarded a certificate of completion by the executive director, or certificate issued in accordance with paragraph (B) of this rule.

(B) Peace officer certification based upon out-of-state certification or prior training:

(1) An individual may apply for a peace officer certificate issued pursuant to division (E) of section 109.73 of the Revised Code by submitting documentation, in the manner prescribed by the executive director, sufficient to establish either of the following:

(a) The individual holds an out-of-state occupational license that is substantially similar to that of a peace officer certificate; or

(b) The individual has been actively employed as a peace officer for at least three of the last five years immediately preceding the date of their application in the uniformed services, a federal agency, or jurisdiction where an out-of-state license or certificate is not required to be employed as a peace officer.

(2) If an individual applies for the issuance of a peace officer certificate pursuant to division (E) of section 109.73 of the Revised Code and holds an out-of-state occupational license that is substantially similar to that of a peace officer certificate, the executive director shall issue a certificate if the individual provides satisfactory documentation of the following:

(a) The individual possesses an out-of-state occupational license issued by another state and the license is substantially similar to that of an Ohio peace officer certificate;

(b) If the individual holds an out-of-state occupational license in one or more jurisdictions, the individual is in good standing with each entity that regulates the individual's out-of-state license and the individual has not surrendered or had revoked any license or government certification related to the applicant's work in that same profession or occupation;

(c) The individual has held the out-of-state occupational license for at least one year immediately preceding the date the application is submitted;

(d) The individual has been actively employed as a peace officer, or substantially similar occupational activity, for at least one of the five years immediately preceding the date the application is submitted;

(e) The individual was required to satisfy minimum educational and training requirements to obtain the out-of-state license;

(f) The individual has not been convicted of, found guilty pursuant to a judicial finding of, or plead guilty to a criminal offense, or substantially similar offense in any jurisdiction, that would prohibit the individual from attending peace officer basic training as set forth in paragraph (C) of rule 109:2-1-03 of the Administrative Code;

(g) The individual has passed the written certification examination as provided in rule 109:2-1-11 of the Administrative Code.

(3) If an individual applies for the issuance of a peace officer certificate pursuant to division (E) of section 109.73 of the Revised Code based upon their satisfactory work experience in the same profession as a peace officer in the uniformed services, a federal agency, or jurisdiction where an out-of-state license or certificate is not required to be employed as a peace officer, the executive director shall issue a certificate if the individual provides satisfactory documentation of the following:

(a) The individual has provided sufficient documentation, in the manner prescribed by the executive director, that they have been actively employed as a peace officer for at least three of the last five years immediately preceding the date of their application in the uniformed services, a federal agency, or jurisdiction where an out-of-state license or certificate is not required to be employed as a peace officer;

(b) The individual has not previously surrendered or had revoked an out-of-state occupational license or government certification related to the occupational activities associated with the duties of a peace officer;

(c) The individual was required to satisfy minimum educational and training requirements to obtain the out-of-state license;

(d) The individual was required to demonstrate proficiency in and pass a written examination on the training and educational requirements to obtain the obtain the out-of-state license;

(e) The individual has not been convicted of, found guilty pursuant to a judicial finding of, or plead guilty to a criminal offense, or substantially similar offense in any jurisdiction, that would prohibit the individual from attending peace officer basic training as set forth in paragraph (C) of rule 109:2-1-03 of the Administrative Code;

(f) The individual passes the written certification examination as provided in paragraph (A) of rule 109:2-1-11 of the Administrative Code.

(4) If a current or former trooper of the Ohio state highway patrol applies for a peace officer certificate to be issued pursuant to division (A) of section 109.73 of the Revised Code, the executive director shall issue a certificate if the individual provides satisfactory documentation of the following:

(a) Successful completion of an Ohio state highway patrol training academy established and operated pursuant to Chapter 5503. of the Revised Code;

(b) The individual's employment history with the Ohio state highway patrol;

(c) The individual has not been convicted of, found guilty pursuant to a judicial finding of, or plead guilty to a criminal offense, or substantially similar offense in any jurisdiction, that would prohibit the individual from attending peace officer basic training as set forth in paragraph (C) of rule 109:2-1-03 of the Administrative Code;

(d) The individual passes the written certification examination as provided in paragraph (A) of rule 109:2-1-11 of the Administrative Code.

(5) As used in this paragraph:

(a) "Actively employed as a peace officer" means being employed and working, in a fulltime paid status, in a position where an individual's powers and responsibilities include at least all of the following:

(i) Investigating and enforcing criminal and or traffic laws in a manner that complies with all relevant provisions of the United States Constitution;

(ii) The authority to effectuate arrests for criminal offenses based upon probable cause, within the limits set forth by the Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution, but that is not otherwise permissible by private citizens;

(iii) The ability to lawfully carry and use a firearm as part of their official duties with an authorization to use force, including deadly force, in a manner consistent with the Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution;

(iv) Interviewing suspects, victims, and witnesses in relation to criminal and or traffic investigations;

(v) The duty to protect the public and enforce state or federal law; and

(vi) Any other essential functions of being a peace officer recommended by the executive director and approved by the peace officer training commission.

(b) "Substantially similar occupational activity" means employment in a position where the individual is authorized to perform all the activities set forth in paragraph (B)(5)(a) of this rule.

(c) "Out-of-state occupational license", "government certification, "license," "good standing" and, "uniformed services" have the same meaning as in section 4796.01 of the Revised Code.

(d) An out-of-state occupational license is substantially similar to a peace officer certificate if it conveys, with valid employment, the licensee authority to perform all the activities set forth in (B)(5)(a) of this rule.

(C) All individuals who have previously been appointed as peace officers who terminate their appointment from an agency will have their training eligibility reviewed by the executive director upon reappointment.

Upon appointing a person to a peace officer position as described in division (A) of section 109.71 of the Revised Code, or up to ninety days prior to appointing a person to a peace officer position, the appointing agency shall submit a request for the executive director to evaluate the officer's training and eligibility to perform the functions of a peace officer. Such request will be made on a form provided by the executive director and shall be submitted immediately upon appointing the officer.

(D) Refresher training required based upon breaks in service:

(1) All individuals with a peace officer certificate issued by the executive director, or previously appointed as a peace officer, who have not been appointed as either a peace officer or a trooper for more than one year but less than four years, shall successfully complete up to forty-hours of refresher training as prescribed by the executive director.

(2) All individuals with a peace officer certificate issued by the executive director, or previously appointed as a peace officer, who have not been appointed as either a peace officer or a trooper for more than four years shall successfully complete eighty-hours of refresher training as prescribed by the executive director.

(3) Individuals subject to a refresher requirement set forth in this paragraph may be appointed as peace officers, but shall be prohibited from carrying a firearm in connection with the appointment and shall be prohibited from performing the functions of a peace officer until evidence of completion of the training has been verified by the executive director.

(E) Any individual who has been appointed as a peace officer and has been awarded a certificate of completion of basic training by the executive director and has been elected or appointed to the office of sheriff shall be considered a peace officer during the term of office for the purpose of maintaining a current and valid basic training certificate. Any training requirements required of peace officers, including continuing professional training pursuant to section 109.803 of the Revised Code, shall also be required of sheriffs who wish to maintain a current and valid peace officer certificate during their term in office.

(F) Any individual who has been awarded a certificate of completion of basic training by the executive director and has been appointed as a deputy inspector general under section 121.48 of the Revised Code shall be considered a peace officer during the term of the deputy inspector general's appointment for the purpose of maintaining a current and valid basic training certificate. Any training requirements required of peace officers, including continuing professional training pursuant to section 109.803 of the Revised Code, shall also be required of deputy inspector generals who wish to maintain a current and valid peace officer certificate.

(G) Former troopers of the Ohio state highway patrol who are appointed as peace officers in Ohio as of the effective date of this rule, may be reappointed as peace officers without completion of the state certification examination. Passage of the state certification examination is only required to receive an original peace officer appointment or to receive a peace officer certificate.

(H) This rule shall not be construed to preclude a township, county, or municipal corporation from establishing time limits for satisfactory completion of the basic course and re-entry requirements of less than the maximum limits prescribed by the commission. If a township, county, or municipal corporation has adopted time limits less than the maximum limits prescribed in this paragraph, such time limits shall be controlling.

(I) The completion of any refresher course required by this rule shall remain valid for one year from the date of completion. If the person has not been appointed by an agency within one year of the completion of the refresher course, the person must retake the refresher course prior to being appointed and performing the functions of a peace officer.

(J) No individual shall be eligible to attend a refresher course if the individual cannot lawfully possess a firearm, or if any of the conditions set forth in paragraph (C) of rule 109:2-1-03 of the Administrative Code apply.

Last updated May 29, 2026 at 7:54 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 109.73, 109.74
Amplifies: 109.73, 109.74, 109.75
Five Year Review Date: 10/17/2029
Prior Effective Dates: 1/15/1988, 8/21/1990

Rule 109:2-1-13 | Statutorily mandated training.

• Effective: April 21, 2022
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) The commission shall include training and set a minimum number of hours in basic training to cover the topics described in sections 109.741, 109.742, 109.744, 109.745, 109.747, and division (B)(4) of section 109.803 of the Revised Code.

(1) The number of hours of training in basic training on handling missing children, missing persons, and child abuse and neglect cases shall be no less than six hours.

(2) The number of hours of training in basic training on crisis intervention, as defined in division (C) of section 109.71 of the Revised Code, shall be no less than one hour.

(3) The number of hours of training in basic training on handling domestic violence offenses shall be no less than six hours.

(4) The number of hours of training in basic training on investigating and handling the crime of trafficking in persons shall be no less than six hours.

(5) The number of hours of training in basic training on companion animal encounters and companion animal behavior shall be no less than one hour.

(6) The number of hours of training in basic training on proper interactions with civilians during traffic stops and other in-person encounters as set forth in division (B)(4) of section 109.803 of the Revised Code.

(B) Peace officers that began peace officer basic training prior to March 3, 1979 shall have two years from January 1, 2017 to provide documentation to the executive director of the commission of successful completion of training covering all subjects listed in paragraph (A) of this rule.

(C) Peace officers that began peace officer basic training prior to April 4, 1985 shall have two years from January 1, 2017 to provide documentation to the executive director of the commission of successful completion of training covering subjects listed in paragraphs (A)(1), (A)(2), (A)(4), and (A)(5) of this rule.

(D) Peace officers that began peace officer basic training prior to April 9, 1985 shall have two years from January 1, 2017 to provide documentation to the executive director of the commission of successful completion of training covering subjects listed in paragraphs (A)(1), (A)(4), and (A)(5) of this rule.

(E) Peace officers that began peace officer basic training prior to July 1, 2012 shall have two years from January 1, 2017 to provide documentation to the executive director of the commission of successful completion of training covering subjects listed in paragraphs (A)(4) and (A)(5) of this rule.

(F) Peace officers that began peace officer basic training prior to October 1, 2015 shall have two years from January 1, 2017 to provide documentation to the executive director of the commission of successful completion of training covering subjects listed in paragraphs (A)(5) of this rule.

(G) Applicants seeking prior equivalency certification under paragraph (B)(3) of rule 109:2-1-12 of the Administrative Code shall have one year from the date upon which the prior equivalency applicant successfully completed the certification examination to provide documentation to the executive director of the commission of successful completion of approved covering all subjects listed in paragraph (A) of this rule.

(H) The executive director may extend the time for completion of these training requirements upon written request from the appointing authority prior to the expiration of the two year time frame for completing the required training. Such request shall contain an explanation of the emergency circumstances which created the need for the extension. The application shall set forth the name of the peace officer for whom the extension is requested, the emergency circumstances, including documentation, for which the extension is requested, and the date on which the request was submitted to the commission. Factors which may be considered in granting or denying such requests include, but are not limited to, serious illness of the individual or an immediate family member, prolonged military service, or an unexpected shortage of manpower within the appointing agency. Based upon the emergency circumstances in any given case, the executive director may extend the required completion date. Extensions shall be for ninety days, absent a finding by the executive director that special circumstances exist for a longer extension.

(I) The executive director shall either grant or deny the request for extension within thirty days after the date on which the request was received by the commission. The executive director shall send written notice of the decision to the appointing authority.

(J) Any peace officer who fails to comply with the requirements set forth in paragraphs (B) to (F) of this rule shall cease carrying a firearm and shall cease performing the functions of a peace officer until such time as evidence of compliance is filed with the executive director. This rule does not apply to peace officers for whom an extension of time has been granted by the executive director.

Last updated June 1, 2026 at 11:26 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 109.73, 109.74, 109.741, 109.742, 109.744, 109.747
Amplifies: 109.73, 109.741, 109.742, 109.744, 109.745, 107.747, 109.75
Five Year Review Date: 6/1/2026
Prior Effective Dates: 1/1/2017

Rule 109:2-1-16 | Explanation of the basic training course.

• Effective: January 1, 2016
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) The course content and curriculum of the peace officer basic training program shall be established by the recommendation of the Ohio peace officer training commission and upon approval of the attorney general. It shall be sufficient in content and subject material to provide the student with a strong basic knowledge of the role, function, and practices of a peace officer.

(B) The units, topics, hours, and lesson plan content for the basic course shall be taught in their entirety.

(C) The basic training course shall be comprised of topics that are contained in the following units.

(1) Administration

(2) Legal

(3) Human relations

(4) Firearms

(5) Driving

(6) Investigation

(7) Traffic

(8) Patrol

(9) Civil disorders

(10) Subject control

(11) First aid

(12) Physical conditioning

(13) Homeland security

(D) It is understood that the course content and curriculum recommended by the Ohio peace officer training commission and approved by the attorney general are established as mandatory minimums to be eligible to obtain certification. Schools, school commanders, and instructors are encouraged to exceed the minimums as they deem appropriate.

Reasonable latitude shall be granted to instructors to deliver the material in a manner deemed most effective and to permit the use of instructional methods and material deemed to be the most appropriate and useful, provided the content of the lesson plan approved by commission is covered in its entirety.

Last updated September 9, 2025 at 10:34 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: 109.74
Amplifies: 109.73, 109.75
Five Year Review Date: 8/8/2030
Prior Effective Dates: 1/1/1988

Rule 109:2-1-17 | Public notices of meetings of the Ohio peace officer training commission.

• Effective: January 1, 2000
• Promulgated Under: 119.03

(A) Any person may determine the time and place of all regularly scheduled meetings of the Ohio peace officer training commission, place and purpose of all special meetings, of the Ohio peace officer training commission by writing to the "Executive Director, Ohio Peace Officer Training commission, P.O. Box 309, London, Ohio 43140." Notices of meetings may be also obtained by calling [phone] during the hours of eight a.m. to five p.m., Monday through Friday.

(B) Any representative of the news media may obtain notice of all special meetings by requesting, in writing, that such notice shall be provided. A request for such notification shall be addressed to: "Executive Director, Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission, P.O. Box 309, London, Ohio 43140." The request shall provide the name of the individual media representative to be contacted, the person's mailing address and a maximum of two telephone numbers where the person can be reached. The executive director shall maintain a list of all representatives of the news media who have requested notice of special meetings pursuant to this rule.

In the event of a special meeting, not of an emergency nature, the executive director shall notify all media representatives on the list of such meeting by doing one of the following:

(1) Sending written notice, which must be mailed no later than four calendar days prior to the day of the special meeting;

(2) Notifying such representatives by telephone not later than twenty-four hours prior to the special meeting. Such telephone notice shall be completed if a message has been left for the representative, or if, after reasonable effort, the executive director has been unable to provide such telephone notice.

(C) The executive director shall maintain a list of all persons who have requested, in writing, notice of all meetings of the Ohio peace officer training commission at which specific subject matters designated by such persons are scheduled to be discussed. Any person may, upon payment of an annual fee in the amount of two dollars and fifty cents, have their names placed on such list. The executive director shall, no later than five days prior to each meeting, send by first class mail an agenda of the meeting to such persons.

Last updated August 13, 2025 at 8:43 AM

Supplemental Information

Authorized By: –
Amplifies: –
Five Year Review Date:
Prior Effective Dates: 9/23/1976, 3/1/1982, 1/1/1988