San Antonio Police Chief William McManus says not everyone is cut out to be a cop.
The application process alone is rigorous, and many cadets fail to finish the physically demanding police academy.
"The other ones who stick it out and make through the 7-month period, then they are pretty much convinced, 'well this is for me and this is what I want to do,' " said McManus.
Right now, SAPD has 177 slots to fill. That means the city is need to have that many badges on patrol.
Currently, there are 2,208 sworn officers to help protect 1.5 million people.
SAPD is the one of the best paid police forces in the state, second only to Austin.
Upon graduation, cadets have a chance to earn an average of more than $55,000 once they finish a 14-week field training officer program.
Chief McManus says if you're thinking about becoming a police officer, you won't be disappointed.
"It's a noble profession," said McManus. "It's a profession where you get to help people every single day, many times a day. And that in itself is a satisfying of a job as you can find."
Last month, SAPD announced a $5,000 hiring bonus to all applicants who make it through an officer-training program.
Prior or current law enforcement officers can make $7,500 in bonus money.
The next cadet class begins next month.
According to a survey paid for by the city, an average 20-year SAPD officer receives $124,668 annually in total compensation which includes base wages, special pay and benefits.
Again, that's second in the state to Austin.