Police Identification and Records Officers
Police identification and records officers collect and analyze evidence from crime scenes, with a focus on fingerprint classification and identification. They photograph evidence and prepare documentation for use in criminal and civil cases. This work takes place primarily in police departments, crime laboratories, and forensic facilities.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against police identification and records officers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves processing evidence from multiple cases, including cataloging items and taking detailed photographs. Officers spend considerable time at crime scenes collecting fingerprints and other physical evidence. Much of the work happens in the lab, where they classify prints, compare them against databases, and maintain detailed records. Documentation and report writing are regular tasks that support investigations and legal proceedings.
Who this work suits
Holland code CRI. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to prefer structured, detail-oriented work with clear procedures and measurable outcomes. You're drawn to practical, hands-on tasks and enjoy working with systems and tools that produce tangible results. This role suits people who are comfortable following established protocols and take satisfaction in precision work.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $114,230 | $160,760 | $170,810 | 2,980 |
| Maryland | $93,230 | $126,730 | $166,230 | 1,010 |
| California | $99,270 | $124,840 | $136,020 | 12,610 |
| Delaware | $71,670 | $122,050 | $149,990 | 140 |
| New Jersey | $91,360 | $116,300 | $134,000 | 3,080 |
| Washington | $96,540 | $115,790 | $126,170 | 1,850 |
| Alaska | $92,110 | $114,940 | $168,790 | 140 |
| Hawaii | $106,870 | $113,940 | $140,750 | 440 |
| Virginia | $79,770 | $112,760 | $160,760 | 3,180 |
| Massachusetts | $92,020 | $110,150 | $146,230 | 1,300 |
| Oregon | $94,700 | $107,450 | $127,860 | 520 |
| Vermont | $84,430 | $106,330 | $111,530 | 190 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Data Science Practitioner (CDSP) — CertNexus
- Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) — Association of Certified Fraud Examiners
- Certified Information Privacy Professional - Europe (CIPP/E) — International Association of Privacy Professionals
- National Law Enforcement — Law and Public Safety Education Network
- National Basic Crime Scene Investigator (NBCSI) — Law and Public Safety Education Network
- Certified Business Intelligence Professional - Business Core (CBIP) — The Data Warehouse Institute
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against police identification and records officers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 33-3021.02 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.