Army 31B Military Police to Civilian: Complete Law Enforcement Career Transition Guide (2024-2025 Salary Data)

Bottom Line Up Front

31B Military Police transitioning out—you're not just a gate guard, you're a trained law enforcement professional with patrol operations, traffic control, criminal investigations, physical security, use of force, arrest authority, and proven performance under pressure. Your skills translate directly to high-demand civilian law enforcement careers. Realistic first-year salaries range from $45,000-$75,000 in local/state police departments, $55,000-$85,000 in federal law enforcement (CBP Border Patrol, ICE, DEA, US Marshals), and $50,000-$75,000 in corporate security or corrections. With experience and location, $80,000-$130,000+ is achievable in federal agencies, major metro police departments (California pays $100K-$145K+), or corporate security management.

Federal agencies actively recruit Military Police veterans with veteran hiring preference and age waivers. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) hires thousands annually at $67K-$105K. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE/HSI) pays $70K-$95K. DEA Special Agents earn $70K-$130K+ with Law Enforcement Availability Pay. US Marshals start at $48K-$71K and quickly progress. State and local police departments give veteran preference, academy credit for military training, and competitive salaries ($45K-$115K depending on state).

You've conducted law and order operations on military installations. You've performed traffic stops, responded to incidents, investigated crimes, apprehended suspects, and maintained security in high-threat environments. You've trained on use of force, defensive tactics, weapons qualification, and report writing. That's professional law enforcement experience—exactly what civilian agencies need.

Let's address the elephant in the room

Every 31B separating hears: "You still have to go through a civilian police academy," and "Military Police experience doesn't count as real law enforcement."

Both are partially true. Here's the reality: Your 31B experience is LAW ENFORCEMENT experience, but you'll still need civilian academy certification and some departments discount military LE work.

You didn't just "guard gates." You:

Conducted law enforcement patrols on military installations (federal property)
Performed traffic stops, DUI investigations, and accident investigations
Responded to domestic violence, assaults, thefts, and other criminal incidents
Apprehended suspects, applied restraints, and processed detainees
Conducted searches, seizures, and evidence collection under UCMJ and federal law
Wrote incident reports, sworn statements, and investigative summaries
Testified in courts-martial and administrative hearings
Qualified with firearms (M9, M4, M249, less-lethal weapons)
Maintained physical security for sensitive installations including nuclear weapons facilities
Deployed to combat zones conducting combat support/security operations

That's patrol operations, criminal investigations, use of force, arrest procedures, report writing, and courtroom testimony. Every single skill translates to civilian law enforcement.

The gap isn't capability—it's POST (Peace Officer Standards and Training) certification. Most states require civilian police academy (12-26 weeks) even with military LE experience. Some give academy credit or shortened academies for MPs. Federal agencies (CBP, ICE, DEA) provide their own training after hiring.

Here's what matters: Departments know Military Police are disciplined, trained in use of force, comfortable with weapons, and perform under pressure. You're a preferred candidate—you just need to complete their academy.

Best civilian career paths for Army 31B

Let's get specific. Here are the fields where 31Bs consistently land, with real 2024-2025 salary data.

Federal Law Enforcement (highest pay, best benefits)

Civilian job titles:

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) - Border Patrol Agent
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) - Enforcement and Removal Operations Officer
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) - Special Agent
DEA Special Agent
U.S. Marshals Service - Deputy U.S. Marshal
ATF Special Agent
FBI Special Agent (requires bachelor's degree)
Federal Protective Service Officer
VA Police Officer

Salary ranges (2024 GS scale + LEAP):

CBP Border Patrol Agent (GL-7 to GS-12): $67,000-$105,000
ICE Officer (GS-5 to GS-12): $55,000-$95,000
HSI Special Agent (GL-7 to GS-13): $70,000-$110,000
DEA Special Agent (GS-7 to GS-13 + 25% LEAP): $70,000-$130,000+
US Marshals Deputy (GL-7 to GS-12): $48,000-$90,000
ATF Special Agent (GS-7 to GS-13 + 25% LEAP): $70,000-$125,000
FBI Special Agent (GS-10 to GS-13 + 25% LEAP): $80,000-$135,000
VA Police Officer (GS-6 to GS-9): $45,000-$72,000

What translates directly:

Law enforcement patrol and response
Criminal investigations and evidence collection
Use of force and defensive tactics
Firearms proficiency and qualification standards
Report writing and documentation
Detainee handling and processing
Federal property law enforcement (MPs work federal installations)
Testifying in legal proceedings

Certifications/Requirements:

Bachelor's degree (required for FBI, helpful for others): Use GI Bill if needed
U.S. citizenship (required for all federal LE): Must be citizen
Age requirements (typically under 37 for entry): Some agencies give veteran age waivers
Background investigation and polygraph: Standard for federal LE hiring
Physical fitness test: You'll pass—maintain PT standards
Federal agency training academy: Provided after hiring (FLETC, Quantico, etc.)

Reality check: Federal law enforcement is the highest-paying path for most 31Bs. CBP hired 2,000+ Border Patrol Agents in 2024 alone and actively recruits veterans. ICE/HSI needs investigators with LE backgrounds. DEA values military police experience for tactical operations and investigations.

The hiring process is long (6-18 months from application to academy) but worth it. Starting pay is $67K-$80K, scaling to $95K-$130K+ within 5-10 years. Benefits include federal retirement (pension after 20 years at any age), health insurance, and Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP - adds 25% to base salary for some agencies).

Veteran preference gives you 5-10 points on competitive exams. Many 31Bs are hired directly without competing against non-veteran applicants.

Best for: 31Bs seeking stability, excellent benefits, pension, and want to continue federal law enforcement work at significantly higher pay than military.

State and Local Police Departments (traditional path)

Civilian job titles:

Police Officer (city/town police)
Sheriff's Deputy (county law enforcement)
State Trooper / Highway Patrol Officer
Transit Police Officer
University/Campus Police Officer

Salary ranges (2024, varies dramatically by state/city):

National average: $48,000-$75,000
California (highest paying): $95,000-$145,000 (San Jose/SF/LA)
Washington State: $75,000-$105,000
Alaska: $70,000-$90,000
Texas (major cities): $60,000-$80,000 (starting, rising to $90K+)
New York: $55,000-$110,000 (NYPD starts $58K, rises to $100K+ with overtime)
Florida: $42,000-$65,000
Mississippi (lowest): $35,000-$50,000

What translates directly:

Patrol operations and community policing
Traffic enforcement and accident investigation
Criminal investigations and report writing
Use of force and defensive tactics
Firearms qualification and tactical operations
Responding to emergency calls
Interacting with diverse populations under stress

Requirements:

Police academy (12-26 weeks, varies by state): Some states give credit/shorter academy for military LE
POST certification (state-specific): Required in most states
Background check and polygraph: Standard
Physical and psychological evaluations: Standard
Driver's license: Valid state license
Age requirement (usually 21+): MPs typically qualify
Residency requirements (some cities): Must live in/near city hiring you

Reality check: Pay varies wildly. California pays $95K-$145K but cost of living is high. Southern states pay $40K-$60K but living costs are low. Major metros (Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Phoenix) pay $55K-$85K starting, rising to $90K-$120K with experience and overtime.

Most departments give veteran preference (bonus points on exams, priority hiring). Some waive parts of academy for military MPs. Many offer tuition assistance for bachelor's degrees (required for promotion to sergeant/detective).

Police work is shift work (nights, weekends, holidays), involves danger, and community relations challenges vary by department. But it's stable employment with pensions (20-25 years = retirement), health benefits, and strong unions in most areas.

Career progression: Officer → Corporal/Sergeant (3-5 years, $70K-$95K) → Lieutenant ($90K-$120K) → Captain/Commander ($110K-$150K).

Best for: 31Bs wanting to stay in traditional patrol law enforcement, willing to work shifts, prefer local community policing, and want pension-based retirement.

Corporate Security / Loss Prevention (private sector, often better hours)

Civilian job titles:

Corporate Security Officer
Security Manager
Director of Security
Loss Prevention Manager
Executive Protection Specialist
Retail Loss Prevention Investigator

Salary ranges:

Corporate Security Officer: $40,000-$60,000
Security Manager: $65,000-$120,000
Corporate Security Manager: $90,000-$160,000
Director of Security (Fortune 500): $110,000-$180,000
Loss Prevention Manager (retail): $50,000-$85,000
Executive Protection Specialist: $65,000-$120,000

What translates directly:

Physical security and access control (you managed installation security)
Incident response and investigations
Report writing and documentation
Risk assessment and threat evaluation
Patrol and surveillance operations
Interacting with law enforcement agencies
Crisis management under pressure

Certifications needed:

CPP (Certified Protection Professional) - ASIS ($450 exam): Industry gold standard
PSP (Physical Security Professional) - ASIS ($350 exam): For physical security roles
State security licenses (varies): Some states require armed/unarmed security licensing
Executive Protection training ($2,000-$5,000): If targeting EP roles

Reality check: Corporate security is less dangerous than patrol LE, often better hours (day shifts, weekends off), and competitive pay at management levels ($80K-$160K). Entry-level security officer roles pay poorly ($15-$22/hour, $40K-$50K), but experience and certifications move you to management quickly.

Fortune 500 companies, tech firms (Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, Google), hospitals, universities, manufacturing facilities, and retail chains all hire security professionals. Many prefer former military law enforcement for discipline, training, and professionalism.

The work is less action-oriented than police work—more monitoring, access control, investigations, and program management. But it's stable, safer, and family-friendly.

Best for: 31Bs wanting private sector pay, better work-life balance, less dangerous work, and clear progression to management roles.

Corrections Officer (Federal Bureau of Prisons, State Prisons)

Civilian job titles:

Correctional Officer (Federal Bureau of Prisons)
Corrections Officer (state/county prisons)
Detention Officer (county jails)
Probation Officer
Parole Officer

Salary ranges:

Federal BOP Correctional Officer (GS-6 to GS-9): $48,000-$67,000 (39% above national average)
State Correctional Officer (average): $42,000-$65,000 (varies by state)
California Correctional Officer: $55,000-$85,000
Probation Officer: $45,000-$79,000
Parole Officer: $45,000-$75,000

What translates directly:

Detainee management and supervision (you processed detainees)
Security operations and facility control
Use of force and crisis intervention
Report writing and documentation
Working in high-stress, potentially violent environments
Maintaining order and discipline

Requirements:

Bachelor's degree (required for federal BOP): Use GI Bill
State corrections academy (4-12 weeks): Provided after hiring for state positions
Background check: Standard
Physical fitness: Maintained

Reality check: Corrections work is challenging—confined environment, managing inmates, potential violence. But federal BOP pays well ($48K-$67K, 39% above national average), offers federal retirement (20 years = retire at 50), and veteran preference in hiring.

State corrections vary—California pays $55K-$85K, but Southern states pay $35K-$50K. The work is shift-based (nights, weekends, mandatory overtime common).

Probation/Parole Officer roles pay $45K-$79K, involve community supervision (not facility work), require bachelor's degrees, and offer better hours/less danger than facility corrections.

Best for: 31Bs comfortable in corrections environments, wanting federal benefits and retirement, and preferring facility security over patrol work.

Private Security Contractor (overseas, highest short-term pay)

Civilian job titles:

Private Security Contractor (Iraq, Afghanistan, Africa, Middle East)
Personal Security Detail (PSD) Operator
Static Security Contractor
Security Advisor (OCONUS)

Salary ranges:

Entry-level overseas security: $60,000-$90,000
Static security (Middle East): $80,000-$120,000
PSD Contractor: $100,000-$180,000
High-threat PSD (Iraq, Afghanistan, Africa): $120,000-$200,000+
Daily rates: $400-$800/day ($100K-$200K+ annually)

What translates directly:

Security operations in hostile environments (you deployed)
Weapons proficiency and tactical operations
Force protection and convoy security
Working austere conditions
High-stress decision making

Requirements:

Active Secret clearance (helpful): Not always required but increases pay $10K-$25K
Military law enforcement or combat experience: You have this
Weapons qualifications: Maintained through military service
Medical clearance and passport: Required for overseas work
Tactical training (often employer-provided): PSD-specific training

Reality check: Overseas contracting pays well ($100K-$200K+) but is unstable. Contracts last 6-12 months. You work 12-hour days, 6-7 days/week, often 6-8 week rotations with 2 weeks home. Post-Afghanistan withdrawal reduced opportunities, but Middle East (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Iraq), Africa, and other locations still hire.

Foreign Earned Income Exclusion: First $126,500 earned overseas is tax-free (2024), significantly increasing take-home pay.

Most 31Bs contract 2-5 years, save $200K-$500K+, then transition to stateside law enforcement or corporate security.

Best for: Young 31Bs (under 40), single or with supportive families, wanting maximum short-term income, willing to work high-threat overseas environments.

Skills translation guide (for your resume)

Stop writing "31B Military Police" and assuming HR understands. Translate your experience:

Military Experience	Civilian Translation
31B Military Police, E-5	Law Enforcement Professional with 6+ years conducting patrol operations, criminal investigations, and physical security on federal installations
Conducted law enforcement patrols on military installation	Performed daily patrol operations covering 25,000-acre federal facility serving 15,000+ personnel
Responded to emergency calls (domestic violence, assaults, DUIs, accidents)	Responded to 500+ emergency calls annually including violent crimes, traffic accidents, and medical emergencies
Performed traffic stops and DUI investigations	Conducted 200+ traffic enforcement stops annually, processed DUI suspects, administered field sobriety tests
Apprehended suspects and processed detainees	Executed arrest procedures, applied restraints, processed 100+ detainees through booking procedures
Wrote incident reports and investigative summaries	Prepared detailed incident reports, sworn statements, and investigative documentation for judicial proceedings
Testified in courts-martial and administrative hearings	Provided sworn testimony in 15+ legal proceedings including criminal trials and administrative actions
Maintained physical security for nuclear weapons facility	Managed access control, surveillance systems, and security protocols for high-security federal facility
Qualified Expert with M9, M4, M249, and less-lethal weapons	Maintained firearms proficiency across multiple weapon systems including pistol, rifle, and less-lethal force options
Deployed to Afghanistan conducting combat support operations	Conducted security operations in hostile combat environment supporting combat operations and force protection

Use quantifiable results: "Responded to 500+ calls annually," "Conducted 200+ traffic stops," "Maintained 99.5% accountability for $2M equipment," "Supervised 8-person patrol team."

Emphasize federal law enforcement: You worked federal installations under federal jurisdiction—that's federal law enforcement experience.

Required certifications and training

Here's what's worth your time and GI Bill as a 31B:

High priority:

Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement, or related field

Required for FBI, helpful for all federal agencies, required for promotions
Cost: $0 with GI Bill (tuition + housing allowance)
ROI: Opens federal LE doors, required for detective/investigator promotions
Timeline: 4 years (or 2-3 with military credits)
Programs: Online options (Arizona State, University of Maryland Global, Penn State World Campus)

State POST Academy Certification

Required for state/local police work in most states
Cost: Free (hired as recruit, paid during academy)
Timeline: 12-26 weeks depending on state
Value: Required certification for police officer employment

Federal Law Enforcement Training (if hired by federal agency)

Provided after hiring at Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) or agency academies
Cost: $0 (provided by employer, you're paid during training)
Examples: CBP academy (8 weeks), ICE/HSI FLETC (18 weeks), DEA academy (18 weeks), US Marshals (17.5 weeks)

Medium priority:

CPP (Certified Protection Professional) - ASIS International ($450 exam)

Industry standard for corporate security professionals
ROI: $10K-$20K salary boost in corporate security management
Timeline: 3-6 months study
Best for: 31Bs targeting corporate security careers

Executive Protection Training ($2,000-$5,000)

Specialized training for EP careers
ROI: Opens $80K-$150K EP positions
Programs: ESI Executive Protection Institute, EPI, Gavin de Becker
Best for: 31Bs targeting executive protection or PSD contracting

Transition timeline and action plan

Here's your 6-12 month roadmap from 31B to civilian LE career:

6-12 months before separation:

Months 1-2: Career path decision and education

Decide: Federal LE, State/Local Police, Corporate Security, or Corrections
If targeting federal LE without degree: Enroll in bachelor's program (GI Bill)
Request 10 certified DD-214 copies
Document all law enforcement training, qualifications, use of force certifications
Research departments/agencies in target locations (salary, cost of living, hiring status)

Months 3-4: Applications and networking

Apply to federal agencies (CBP, ICE, DEA, US Marshals—hiring takes 6-18 months, start early)
Research state/local departments in target areas
Connect with veteran law enforcement groups on LinkedIn (50+ connections)
Attend veteran hiring events (Hiring Our Heroes, law enforcement job fairs)
Join law enforcement associations (FOP, NAPO offer veteran memberships)
Use SkillBridge if eligible (intern with police department or federal agency last 180 days)

Months 5-6: Testing and interviews

Take civil service exams for state/local police (many departments test quarterly)
Complete federal agency assessments (written tests, interviews, polygraphs)
Maintain physical fitness (PT tests required for most agencies)
Practice interview skills emphasizing law enforcement experience

3-6 months before separation:

Months 1-2: Academy preparation

If hired by state/local: Prepare for police academy (PT, academics)
If hired by federal agency: Prepare for FLETC/agency academy
If not yet hired: Continue applications, consider temporary security work post-separation
Complete TAP classes and transition requirements

Months 2-3: Final preparations

Finalize job offers or academy start dates
Plan relocation if necessary (federal agencies assign locations, local PD requires residency)
Complete out-processing
Ensure DD-214 accuracy
File for VA benefits

After separation:

Months 1-3: Academy training

Attend police academy or federal LE training
Excel in PT, firearms, defensive tactics (your strengths)
Network with instructors and classmates
Graduate and begin field training

Months 3-12: Field training and probation

Complete Field Training Officer (FTO) program (3-6 months for most agencies)
Pass probationary period (6-18 months depending on agency)
Continue education if pursuing bachelor's degree part-time
Join professional law enforcement associations

Bottom line for 31B veterans

Your 31B experience is real law enforcement work on federal installations. You've conducted patrols, responded to calls, investigated crimes, apprehended suspects, and maintained security under pressure. That's professional LE experience—civilian agencies actively want you.

Federal law enforcement (CBP, ICE, DEA, US Marshals) offers $67K-$105K starting, scaling to $95K-$130K+ with excellent benefits and federal retirement. State/local police pay $45K-$145K depending on location. Corporate security management pays $80K-$160K. All offer veteran preference in hiring.

First-year income of $55K-$75K is realistic. Within 5 years, $75K-$110K is achievable in most agencies. Career law enforcement professionals earn $90K-$130K+ at senior levels.

Use veteran preference, leverage your federal LE experience, complete required academy training, and target agencies matching your goals. Thousands of 31Bs successfully transition annually—you're following a proven path.

Execute the plan.

Ready to start your law enforcement career? Use the career planning tools at Military Transition Toolkit to research agencies and salaries.

Bottom Line Up Front

Let's address the elephant in the room

Every 31B separating hears: "You still have to go through a civilian police academy," and "Military Police experience doesn't count as real law enforcement."

You didn't just "guard gates." You:

Conducted law enforcement patrols on military installations (federal property)
Performed traffic stops, DUI investigations, and accident investigations
Responded to domestic violence, assaults, thefts, and other criminal incidents
Apprehended suspects, applied restraints, and processed detainees
Conducted searches, seizures, and evidence collection under UCMJ and federal law
Wrote incident reports, sworn statements, and investigative summaries
Testified in courts-martial and administrative hearings
Qualified with firearms (M9, M4, M249, less-lethal weapons)
Maintained physical security for sensitive installations including nuclear weapons facilities
Deployed to combat zones conducting combat support/security operations

That's patrol operations, criminal investigations, use of force, arrest procedures, report writing, and courtroom testimony. Every single skill translates to civilian law enforcement.

Best civilian career paths for Army 31B

Let's get specific. Here are the fields where 31Bs consistently land, with real 2024-2025 salary data.

Federal Law Enforcement (highest pay, best benefits)

Civilian job titles:

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) - Border Patrol Agent
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) - Enforcement and Removal Operations Officer
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) - Special Agent
DEA Special Agent
U.S. Marshals Service - Deputy U.S. Marshal
ATF Special Agent
FBI Special Agent (requires bachelor's degree)
Federal Protective Service Officer
VA Police Officer

Salary ranges (2024 GS scale + LEAP):

CBP Border Patrol Agent (GL-7 to GS-12): $67,000-$105,000
ICE Officer (GS-5 to GS-12): $55,000-$95,000
HSI Special Agent (GL-7 to GS-13): $70,000-$110,000
DEA Special Agent (GS-7 to GS-13 + 25% LEAP): $70,000-$130,000+
US Marshals Deputy (GL-7 to GS-12): $48,000-$90,000
ATF Special Agent (GS-7 to GS-13 + 25% LEAP): $70,000-$125,000
FBI Special Agent (GS-10 to GS-13 + 25% LEAP): $80,000-$135,000
VA Police Officer (GS-6 to GS-9): $45,000-$72,000

What translates directly:

Law enforcement patrol and response
Criminal investigations and evidence collection
Use of force and defensive tactics
Firearms proficiency and qualification standards
Report writing and documentation
Detainee handling and processing
Federal property law enforcement (MPs work federal installations)
Testifying in legal proceedings

Certifications/Requirements:

Bachelor's degree (required for FBI, helpful for others): Use GI Bill if needed
U.S. citizenship (required for all federal LE): Must be citizen
Age requirements (typically under 37 for entry): Some agencies give veteran age waivers
Background investigation and polygraph: Standard for federal LE hiring
Physical fitness test: You'll pass—maintain PT standards
Federal agency training academy: Provided after hiring (FLETC, Quantico, etc.)

Veteran preference gives you 5-10 points on competitive exams. Many 31Bs are hired directly without competing against non-veteran applicants.

Best for: 31Bs seeking stability, excellent benefits, pension, and want to continue federal law enforcement work at significantly higher pay than military.

State and Local Police Departments (traditional path)

Civilian job titles:

Police Officer (city/town police)
Sheriff's Deputy (county law enforcement)
State Trooper / Highway Patrol Officer
Transit Police Officer
University/Campus Police Officer

Salary ranges (2024, varies dramatically by state/city):

National average: $48,000-$75,000
California (highest paying): $95,000-$145,000 (San Jose/SF/LA)
Washington State: $75,000-$105,000
Alaska: $70,000-$90,000
Texas (major cities): $60,000-$80,000 (starting, rising to $90K+)
New York: $55,000-$110,000 (NYPD starts $58K, rises to $100K+ with overtime)
Florida: $42,000-$65,000
Mississippi (lowest): $35,000-$50,000

What translates directly:

Patrol operations and community policing
Traffic enforcement and accident investigation
Criminal investigations and report writing
Use of force and defensive tactics
Firearms qualification and tactical operations
Responding to emergency calls
Interacting with diverse populations under stress

Requirements:

Police academy (12-26 weeks, varies by state): Some states give credit/shorter academy for military LE
POST certification (state-specific): Required in most states
Background check and polygraph: Standard
Physical and psychological evaluations: Standard
Driver's license: Valid state license
Age requirement (usually 21+): MPs typically qualify
Residency requirements (some cities): Must live in/near city hiring you

Career progression: Officer → Corporal/Sergeant (3-5 years, $70K-$95K) → Lieutenant ($90K-$120K) → Captain/Commander ($110K-$150K).

Best for: 31Bs wanting to stay in traditional patrol law enforcement, willing to work shifts, prefer local community policing, and want pension-based retirement.

Corporate Security / Loss Prevention (private sector, often better hours)

Civilian job titles:

Corporate Security Officer
Security Manager
Director of Security
Loss Prevention Manager
Executive Protection Specialist
Retail Loss Prevention Investigator

Salary ranges:

Corporate Security Officer: $40,000-$60,000
Security Manager: $65,000-$120,000
Corporate Security Manager: $90,000-$160,000
Director of Security (Fortune 500): $110,000-$180,000
Loss Prevention Manager (retail): $50,000-$85,000
Executive Protection Specialist: $65,000-$120,000

What translates directly:

Physical security and access control (you managed installation security)
Incident response and investigations
Report writing and documentation
Risk assessment and threat evaluation
Patrol and surveillance operations
Interacting with law enforcement agencies
Crisis management under pressure

Certifications needed:

CPP (Certified Protection Professional) - ASIS ($450 exam): Industry gold standard
PSP (Physical Security Professional) - ASIS ($350 exam): For physical security roles
State security licenses (varies): Some states require armed/unarmed security licensing
Executive Protection training ($2,000-$5,000): If targeting EP roles

The work is less action-oriented than police work—more monitoring, access control, investigations, and program management. But it's stable, safer, and family-friendly.

Best for: 31Bs wanting private sector pay, better work-life balance, less dangerous work, and clear progression to management roles.

Corrections Officer (Federal Bureau of Prisons, State Prisons)

Civilian job titles:

Correctional Officer (Federal Bureau of Prisons)
Corrections Officer (state/county prisons)
Detention Officer (county jails)
Probation Officer
Parole Officer

Salary ranges:

Federal BOP Correctional Officer (GS-6 to GS-9): $48,000-$67,000 (39% above national average)
State Correctional Officer (average): $42,000-$65,000 (varies by state)
California Correctional Officer: $55,000-$85,000
Probation Officer: $45,000-$79,000
Parole Officer: $45,000-$75,000

What translates directly:

Detainee management and supervision (you processed detainees)
Security operations and facility control
Use of force and crisis intervention
Report writing and documentation
Working in high-stress, potentially violent environments
Maintaining order and discipline

Requirements:

Bachelor's degree (required for federal BOP): Use GI Bill
State corrections academy (4-12 weeks): Provided after hiring for state positions
Background check: Standard
Physical fitness: Maintained

State corrections vary—California pays $55K-$85K, but Southern states pay $35K-$50K. The work is shift-based (nights, weekends, mandatory overtime common).

Probation/Parole Officer roles pay $45K-$79K, involve community supervision (not facility work), require bachelor's degrees, and offer better hours/less danger than facility corrections.

Best for: 31Bs comfortable in corrections environments, wanting federal benefits and retirement, and preferring facility security over patrol work.

Private Security Contractor (overseas, highest short-term pay)

Civilian job titles:

Private Security Contractor (Iraq, Afghanistan, Africa, Middle East)
Personal Security Detail (PSD) Operator
Static Security Contractor
Security Advisor (OCONUS)

Salary ranges:

Entry-level overseas security: $60,000-$90,000
Static security (Middle East): $80,000-$120,000
PSD Contractor: $100,000-$180,000
High-threat PSD (Iraq, Afghanistan, Africa): $120,000-$200,000+
Daily rates: $400-$800/day ($100K-$200K+ annually)

What translates directly:

Security operations in hostile environments (you deployed)
Weapons proficiency and tactical operations
Force protection and convoy security
Working austere conditions
High-stress decision making

Requirements:

Active Secret clearance (helpful): Not always required but increases pay $10K-$25K
Military law enforcement or combat experience: You have this
Weapons qualifications: Maintained through military service
Medical clearance and passport: Required for overseas work
Tactical training (often employer-provided): PSD-specific training

Foreign Earned Income Exclusion: First $126,500 earned overseas is tax-free (2024), significantly increasing take-home pay.

Most 31Bs contract 2-5 years, save $200K-$500K+, then transition to stateside law enforcement or corporate security.

Best for: Young 31Bs (under 40), single or with supportive families, wanting maximum short-term income, willing to work high-threat overseas environments.

Skills translation guide (for your resume)

Stop writing "31B Military Police" and assuming HR understands. Translate your experience:

Military Experience	Civilian Translation
31B Military Police, E-5	Law Enforcement Professional with 6+ years conducting patrol operations, criminal investigations, and physical security on federal installations
Conducted law enforcement patrols on military installation	Performed daily patrol operations covering 25,000-acre federal facility serving 15,000+ personnel
Responded to emergency calls (domestic violence, assaults, DUIs, accidents)	Responded to 500+ emergency calls annually including violent crimes, traffic accidents, and medical emergencies
Performed traffic stops and DUI investigations	Conducted 200+ traffic enforcement stops annually, processed DUI suspects, administered field sobriety tests
Apprehended suspects and processed detainees	Executed arrest procedures, applied restraints, processed 100+ detainees through booking procedures
Wrote incident reports and investigative summaries	Prepared detailed incident reports, sworn statements, and investigative documentation for judicial proceedings
Testified in courts-martial and administrative hearings	Provided sworn testimony in 15+ legal proceedings including criminal trials and administrative actions
Maintained physical security for nuclear weapons facility	Managed access control, surveillance systems, and security protocols for high-security federal facility
Qualified Expert with M9, M4, M249, and less-lethal weapons	Maintained firearms proficiency across multiple weapon systems including pistol, rifle, and less-lethal force options
Deployed to Afghanistan conducting combat support operations	Conducted security operations in hostile combat environment supporting combat operations and force protection

Use quantifiable results: "Responded to 500+ calls annually," "Conducted 200+ traffic stops," "Maintained 99.5% accountability for $2M equipment," "Supervised 8-person patrol team."

Emphasize federal law enforcement: You worked federal installations under federal jurisdiction—that's federal law enforcement experience.

Required certifications and training

Here's what's worth your time and GI Bill as a 31B:

High priority:

Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement, or related field

Required for FBI, helpful for all federal agencies, required for promotions
Cost: $0 with GI Bill (tuition + housing allowance)
ROI: Opens federal LE doors, required for detective/investigator promotions
Timeline: 4 years (or 2-3 with military credits)
Programs: Online options (Arizona State, University of Maryland Global, Penn State World Campus)

State POST Academy Certification

Required for state/local police work in most states
Cost: Free (hired as recruit, paid during academy)
Timeline: 12-26 weeks depending on state
Value: Required certification for police officer employment

Federal Law Enforcement Training (if hired by federal agency)

Provided after hiring at Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) or agency academies
Cost: $0 (provided by employer, you're paid during training)
Examples: CBP academy (8 weeks), ICE/HSI FLETC (18 weeks), DEA academy (18 weeks), US Marshals (17.5 weeks)

Medium priority:

CPP (Certified Protection Professional) - ASIS International ($450 exam)

Industry standard for corporate security professionals
ROI: $10K-$20K salary boost in corporate security management
Timeline: 3-6 months study
Best for: 31Bs targeting corporate security careers

Executive Protection Training ($2,000-$5,000)

Specialized training for EP careers
ROI: Opens $80K-$150K EP positions
Programs: ESI Executive Protection Institute, EPI, Gavin de Becker
Best for: 31Bs targeting executive protection or PSD contracting

Transition timeline and action plan

Here's your 6-12 month roadmap from 31B to civilian LE career:

6-12 months before separation:

Months 1-2: Career path decision and education

Decide: Federal LE, State/Local Police, Corporate Security, or Corrections
If targeting federal LE without degree: Enroll in bachelor's program (GI Bill)
Request 10 certified DD-214 copies
Document all law enforcement training, qualifications, use of force certifications
Research departments/agencies in target locations (salary, cost of living, hiring status)

Months 3-4: Applications and networking

Apply to federal agencies (CBP, ICE, DEA, US Marshals—hiring takes 6-18 months, start early)
Research state/local departments in target areas
Connect with veteran law enforcement groups on LinkedIn (50+ connections)
Attend veteran hiring events (Hiring Our Heroes, law enforcement job fairs)
Join law enforcement associations (FOP, NAPO offer veteran memberships)
Use SkillBridge if eligible (intern with police department or federal agency last 180 days)

Months 5-6: Testing and interviews

Take civil service exams for state/local police (many departments test quarterly)
Complete federal agency assessments (written tests, interviews, polygraphs)
Maintain physical fitness (PT tests required for most agencies)
Practice interview skills emphasizing law enforcement experience

3-6 months before separation:

Months 1-2: Academy preparation

If hired by state/local: Prepare for police academy (PT, academics)
If hired by federal agency: Prepare for FLETC/agency academy
If not yet hired: Continue applications, consider temporary security work post-separation
Complete TAP classes and transition requirements

Months 2-3: Final preparations

Finalize job offers or academy start dates
Plan relocation if necessary (federal agencies assign locations, local PD requires residency)
Complete out-processing
Ensure DD-214 accuracy
File for VA benefits

After separation:

Months 1-3: Academy training

Attend police academy or federal LE training
Excel in PT, firearms, defensive tactics (your strengths)
Network with instructors and classmates
Graduate and begin field training

Months 3-12: Field training and probation

Complete Field Training Officer (FTO) program (3-6 months for most agencies)
Pass probationary period (6-18 months depending on agency)
Continue education if pursuing bachelor's degree part-time
Join professional law enforcement associations

Bottom line for 31B veterans

First-year income of $55K-$75K is realistic. Within 5 years, $75K-$110K is achievable in most agencies. Career law enforcement professionals earn $90K-$130K+ at senior levels.

Execute the plan.

Ready to start your law enforcement career? Use the career planning tools at Military Transition Toolkit to research agencies and salaries.