Start to finish was 6 months (some/most in my class stated around 12 months). As soon as they ask you for something, you do it - this will help expedite. Very detailed, so cross your 't's and dot your 'i's. It's much more than being armed. It's about being apart of a great group - a fraternal group - to be a deputized federal officer is a great thing. Furloughed or 'to be' (notified) furloughed status will hamper/stop your application process. The program is highly recommended and as ImEbee stated, the more FFDO's the merrier. Keep plugging away at it and Good luck!!!