What the Course Entails and Exam Details

To achieve this certification, candidates must successfully complete the comprehensive GPSTC Use of Force Instructor course. The curriculum covers both theoretical foundations and practical instructional methodologies.

Core study areas include:

• Comprehensive analysis of Federal and Georgia state laws regarding Use of Force.

• Constitutional Law and Supreme Court precedents (e.g., Graham v. Connor, Tennessee v. Garner).

• The Georgia Use of Force Model and departmental policy development.

• De-escalation strategies and human performance factors during high-stress encounters.

• The proper application and instruction of intermediate weapons (e.g., OC spray, baton, Conducted Energy Weapons).

• Adult learning principles and effective instructional techniques for law enforcement.

• Lesson plan development and dynamic simulation training.

What to Expect in the Final Exam

The final evaluation for the Use of Force Instructor certification is rigorous, reflecting the gravity of the subject matter. It is a multi-faceted assessment designed to ensure candidates possess both subject matter expertise and instructing proficiency.

Cognitive Examination: Candidates must pass a comprehensive written examination. This exam is typically multiple-choice and covers the legal standards, theoretical concepts, and instructional methodologies taught in the course. A minimum passing score (often 80% or higher, as dictated by current GPSTC standards) is required.

Practical Evaluation: In addition to the written test, candidates must perform several instructional presentations. These require candidates to teach Use of Force concepts and demonstrate the proper instruction of physical skills or decision-making scenarios, often including scenario-based training evaluation.

How to Study and Exam Centers

Preparation is the key to success on both the cognitive and practical portions of this exam. The most effective study strategy involves moving beyond rote memorization.

Study Strategies:

1. Focus heavily on current case law and official GPSTC curriculum definitions. These are the foundations of the test.

2. Utilize timed practice exams, like the GPSTC Use of Force Instructor Practice Test, to simulate the testing environment, improve pacing, and identify weak knowledge areas.

3. Review curriculum manuals and study guides provided during the course continuously.

4. Practice delivering instructural presentations to peers or supervisors, focusing on clear communication and confident demonstrations of control tactics.

Exam Centers: The certification course and the associated final examinations are exclusively administered by the Georgia Public Safety Training Center (GPSTC). Testing occurs at the main GPSTC campus in Forsyth, Georgia, or at authorized regional academies throughout the state. Candidates must be officially registered for a GPSTC Use of Force Instructor course offering to sit for the examination.

Job Opportunities from the Course

Becoming a certified Use of Force Instructor significantly enhances a law enforcement professional’s career trajectory and leadership potential. This certification unlocks several critical roles within an agency and specialized training environments.

Completing this course prepares you for roles such as:

• Agency Use of Force Instructor

• Academy Instructor (Regional or State level)

• Training Officer (Field Training or In-Service)

• Range Master / Firearms Instructor (complementary certification)

• Defensive Tactics Instructor

• Shift Supervisor (Sergeant or Lieutenant)

• Training Coordinator or Training Manager