Hiring Process

Hiring Process

Basic Application/ Prescreening Questionnaire

Written Exam /Entrance Test

The written exam is typically a standardized test used to assess general aptitude and does not require any knowledge specific to law enforcement. Written exams typically test an applicant’s

reading comprehension
problem-solving / judgment skills
memory
writing skills

Some agencies or state POSTs offer study guides to assist applicants preparing for the exam.

Video Exam

During video exams, applicants watch a scenario and provide a verbal response that is rated and scored. Some agencies use video simulations to assess an applicant’s interpersonal skills and judgment.

Physical Fitness /Ability Test

Oral Board

Background Investigation

Drug Testing

Psychological Testing

Polygraph

Medical Exam

A typical medical exam may include the following elements:

Height
Weight
Vision
Hearing
Chest X-ray
Blood test
Urine test
Blood pressure
Electrocardiogram
Screening tests for illegal drugs

Most law enforcement agencies have vision and hearing criteria, as well as criteria based on specific diseases or conditions. The specific requirements vary by agency and what is acceptable by one department may not be by another.

Chief/Sheriff's Interview

Conditional Job Offer

Police Academy

Probation Status

Field Training Program