Act 49
The training and certification requirements for constables and deputy constables in Pennsylvania are prescribed under Act 49 of 2009. The credential received for successfully completing these requirements is commonly known as “Act 49 certification”. This training and certification program is administered by the Constables’ Education and Training Board, which is part of the PA Commission on Crime and Delinquency.
To become certified, a newly elected or appointed constable or deputy constable must successfully complete the following initial training:
Basic Training (80 hours)
Basic Firearms (40 hours)
To remain certified, every year an elected or appointed constable or deputy constable must successfully complete the following training and qualifications:
Continuing Education (20 hours)
Annual Firearms (5 hours)
Uncertified constables and deputy constables, although elected or appointed, are prohibited from performing certain functions related to their offices.