I wasn’t able to join the military because of it. I tried calling up my local PD and asking the source itself. Not only did they not know the answer (I’m shocked too trust me), they said I had to pass a medical test AFTER I go through all the prerequisites. So I’m asking here before I dedicate myself.
This is probably going to vary a lot depending on where you’re applying, every state has their own regulations and every department their own standards, so there’s probably not going to be a one-size-fits-all answer for you.
At the very least, if it comes up, it’s probably not going to be seen as a mark in your favor. If, hypothetically, the hiring choice came down to you, or an otherwise identical candidate who isn’t autistic, 9/10 times they’re probably going to go with the other guy.
If at all possible, don’t bring it up. If it comes up on a form or something, don’t lie, if you get caught in a lie that’s probably gonna be an automatic disqualification, but if they don’t ask, don’t tell them. Don’t volunteer the information that you’re autistic unless it’s specifically asked for. If there’s a question anywhere along the lines of “do you have any conditions that will prevent you from carrying out your duties as a police officer?” The answer is “no” unless you do believe that your autism will be an impediment, in which case, don’t be a cop.
Also, between stuff like this and the potential of RFK wanting to send people to work farms, I think it’s very important for people to ask themselves before pursuing a diagnosis for autism (and other conditions) “how do I stand to benefit from a diagnosis, and how will it potentially hurt me?”
If you’re at the high-functioning/low-support-needs/however-you-want-to-phrase-it end of the spectrum, what kind of additional resources and support will a diagnosis actually unlock for you and do you really need them? Or will it just come back to bite you in situations like this? Unfortunately people really do need to be weighing that.