What is a patrol officer?

A patrol officer is a member of a local or state law enforcement agency. It is their job to enforce vehicle laws on roadways. Everyday duties include patrolling highways, directing traffic, visiting the scenes of accidents, issuing citations, and assisting motorists. They typically patrol a defined geographic area. Patrol officers often help other law enforcement officers in criminal matters and emergencies. This job requires extensive training, usually by attending the police academy. Some jurisdictions require patrol officers to earn a bachelor’s degree.