Can you apply to be on swat or do they have to ask you to join?

Question

Can you apply to be on swat or do they have to ask you to join?

Answer 1

They will normally post when there is an opening, and you have to apply. They will review your application and work history. If they find you favorable, you will be invited for further testing.

Answer 2

Every SWAT/ERT squad I've ever known of, requires you to be a member of the force first. From there, you can apply if they are doing a recruiting call. If you aren't an experienced police officer though (and judging by the fact that you have to even ask this question, I'm guessing you aren't), drop this idea immediately. Leave it to the experienced officers to deal with the situations that require a SWAT response. If it were you that were in a situation where they needed to be called, who would you want showing up to save you? It's a tough job, and not to be taken lightly.