In high-speed police chases, the safety of officers, suspects, and the public is paramount. The Pursuit Intervention Technique (PIT) is a specialized driving maneuver used by law enforcement officers to safely bring a fleeing vehicle to a stop during a pursuit. To ensure that officers are trained and capable of performing the PIT maneuver effectively, many law enforcement agencies require officers to obtain a Pursuit Intervention Technique Certification.
This certification ensures that officers have the knowledge, skills, and judgment necessary to carry out the PIT maneuver safely and responsibly. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about getting certified in PIT, including the steps to certification, job responsibilities, salary expectations, and the cost of the certification exam.
The PIT maneuver is an advanced driving technique used to stop fleeing vehicles.
Law enforcement officers must undergo specific training to be certified in the PIT maneuver.
Certification ensures officers can use the PIT maneuver safely, reducing risk during high-speed pursuits.
Salaries for officers trained in PIT vary by location and agency, but the skill is valuable in law enforcement.
The certification process involves hands-on training and may include a written exam or practical assessment.
The Pursuit Intervention Technique (PIT) is a law enforcement driving maneuver designed to stop a fleeing vehicle in a safe and controlled manner during a high-speed pursuit. The maneuver involves the officer’s vehicle making contact with the rear corner of the fleeing vehicle, causing it to spin out and come to a stop. When executed correctly, the PIT maneuver minimizes the risks to everyone involved, including the fleeing suspect, officers, and the public.
The PIT technique is not a routine procedure but is reserved for situations where other methods of stopping a suspect vehicle would be too dangerous. Officers trained in PIT are able to assess the situation quickly and determine whether the use of this technique is warranted, ensuring the safety of all involved.
Becoming certified in the Pursuit Intervention Technique (PIT) requires training and hands-on experience in vehicle dynamics and law enforcement driving techniques. Below are the steps typically required to become PIT certified:
Enroll in a PIT Certification Course:
The first step to becoming PIT certified is to enroll in a training course that meets the standards of your local law enforcement agency or a nationally recognized training organization. These courses typically include both classroom instruction and practical, behind-the-wheel driving training.
Complete Classroom Instruction:
The course will cover the theory behind the PIT maneuver, including vehicle handling, pursuit dynamics, and safety protocols. Officers will learn about the legal implications of using PIT and how to properly assess when the maneuver is appropriate.
Participate in Practical Training:
The bulk of PIT certification training involves driving exercises. Officers will practice performing the PIT maneuver in controlled environments such as closed courses. This hands-on experience is essential for ensuring that officers are comfortable with the technique and can execute it under real-world conditions.
Pass the Evaluation:
Upon completion of the training course, officers will typically be evaluated on their proficiency with the PIT maneuver. This evaluation may include a practical driving test where officers must perform the PIT maneuver correctly, as well as a written exam covering the theoretical knowledge learned during the classroom portion of the course.
Obtain Certification:
After successfully completing the training and evaluation, officers will receive their PIT certification, which is valid for a set period before renewal or additional training may be required.
Officers who are certified in the Pursuit Intervention Technique are responsible for performing high-speed vehicle pursuits while minimizing the risks associated with them. Their job duties may include:
Engaging in Pursuits:
Certified PIT officers are trained to engage in vehicle pursuits, using the PIT maneuver when appropriate to safely stop fleeing vehicles.
Vehicle Control:
These officers must maintain full control of their vehicle at high speeds and in various weather conditions to ensure the safety of themselves and others during a pursuit.
Risk Assessment:
A key part of the PIT maneuver is the officer’s ability to assess the situation and determine whether it’s safe to attempt the maneuver. Officers must be trained in risk management and have the ability to make decisions quickly under pressure.
Training and Mentorship:
In some cases, PIT-certified officers may be responsible for mentoring and training newer officers in pursuit driving techniques, sharing their knowledge of how to safely execute the PIT maneuver.
Reporting and Documentation:
Following a pursuit, officers are required to document the incident, including the use of the PIT maneuver, and provide reports for their agency’s records.
The salary for law enforcement officers trained in the Pursuit Intervention Technique (PIT) will depend on factors such as experience, location, and the specific department they work for. Here is a general breakdown:
Entry-Level Police Officers:
In Texas, the average salary for an entry-level police officer is approximately $45,000 to $55,000 annually. This figure can vary based on department size and location.
Experienced Officers and Supervisors:
Officers with several years of experience and specialized training, such as PIT certification, may earn between $60,000 and $80,000 per year, especially if they take on supervisory or specialized roles.
Officers in Large Cities:
Officers working in large metropolitan areas may earn higher salaries due to increased cost of living and more complex responsibilities. It’s not uncommon for PIT-certified officers in big cities to make $80,000 to $100,000 annually.
Salary also varies based on overtime, union benefits, and other factors. The PIT certification adds value to an officer’s skill set, potentially leading to faster promotions or specialized roles.
The PIT Certification Exam typically includes both a written and practical test. Below are the costs associated with obtaining your certification:
Training Course Fees:
The cost of the training course required to become PIT certified can range from $500 to $1,000, depending on the organization providing the course and its location.
Exam Fees:
Some organizations may charge additional fees for the exam portion of the certification, which can range from $50 to $200.
Renewal Costs:
Many law enforcement agencies require officers to renew their PIT certification every 2-3 years. Renewal costs can vary but generally range from $100 to $300 for continuing education and requalification.
Agencies may cover the cost of training and certification for their officers, or they may reimburse officers who pay out of pocket.
Achieving Pursuit Intervention Technique Certification is a critical step for law enforcement officers who want to safely and effectively engage in high-speed vehicle pursuits. This certification not only equips officers with the skills to stop fleeing vehicles but also helps to reduce the risk of injury to officers and the public during dangerous chases. The certification process involves hands-on training, classroom instruction, and practical evaluation, ensuring that officers are fully prepared for high-pressure situations.
With specialized training and the ability to safely perform the PIT maneuver, officers increase their career opportunities and make valuable contributions to their departments. Whether you're a seasoned officer looking to specialize or a new recruit seeking to enter the law enforcement field, PIT certification is a step towards enhancing your skills and safety in the line of duty.