As the United States Department of Veterans Affairs was established in 1930, the VA Police began as the "VA Protective Service," assigned the role of maintaining order, protecting persons and property, and providing fire safety services. As the VA evolved the fire safety role was turned over to Engineering Service and the "Protective Service" became a security guard force.

In 1973, by an Act of the United States Congress and Presidential signature the guard force was abolished and the VA Police were established. This evolution was brought about due to the changing needs of the VA and an increase of police related matters that could not be handled by a guard force or community law enforcement agencies.

All VA Police applicants must have a minimum of two years law enforcement experience with arrest authority (obtained through Federal, State, County, Municipal Police experience or through service as a Military Police Officer), or have an Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice. Applicants must also undergo an extensive physical examination, psychological evaluation and background investigation.

Upon selection VA Police Officers go through an intensive five-week training course at the Law Enforcement Training Center located at the North Little Rock VAMC in Arkansas. Additionally, VA Police Officers receive continuous in-service and specialized training. VA Police Officers are certified in CPR (as First Responders), use of Chemical Irritant Projector (O.C. spray), PR-24 Police side handle baton, and the Beretta 9 mm firearm.