Steps of the Police Application Hiring Process and How to make your application Competitive

Hiring processes and steps will vary between departments and jurisdictions. However, below are the common steps and obstacles you will encounter during your application process.

Submit a Resume and Cover Letter (Online)

This is your first step to make a good impression and may set you up for success of failure depending on how seriously you take it. Here are a couple of best practices for applying for a police job and how to create a sharp looking, professional resume: Police Test Info: Best Practices for your Police Application

Pre-Screening Interview

Submit Application Package

  • These are usually department specific, and you are often required to be submit these through the respective website.

Recruitment/ Entrance Exam

  • Assessment of a your practical skills required by a police officer during day-to-day duties. This is an area where you have an opportunity to make your application competitive.

Nervous about the written test? I do not blame you. It is a critical step in the police hiring process. The only way to be placed on the eligibility list for further evaluation is to pass it. Approximately 80% of candidates will not pass the written test on the first attempt. This, however, does not need to be the care for you. Instead of going in cold, prepare the right way. I recommend this course produced by Police Test Info: PoliceExam911 Prep Course

Physical Abilities Test (PAT)

POPAT+Stairs.jpg

  • This is were I come in. The Police Officer Physical Abilities Test (often abbreviated to POPAT or PAT) should not be underestimated. While test specific and qualifications vary between departments, the training principles remain the same. The career itself is extremely physically demanding, and as such, the PATs are build to reflect that.

    You WILL NOT pass the POPAT, especially not with a competitive time, with less than exceptional fitness.

  • The PATs typically consist of:

    • Obstacle course (timed, usually less than 5 minutes to complete)

    • Body Drag (may be timed)

    • 1.5mi (2.4km) Run (timed, usually less than 15 minutes to complete)

    • Strength Assessment (typically includes: Push Ups, Bench Press, Sit Ups, Sit-and-Reach; may also include grip strength, arm strength dynamometer, stationary bike and/or other tests)

  • Preparation for the physical test should start a minimum of 6 weeks before you expected start date. If you are not already training regularly and following a functional fitness program, I recommend starting at least 16 weeks in advance. This allows you to complete 1-2 complete training cycles prior to your test date.

Suitability Interview and Management Interview

  • During this step the department will ask you various questions based on your personal history (employment, school, lifestyle, etc.). The second step is a management interview which is often conducted by two senior officers and HR.

Psychology Interview

  • This step requires you to complete multiple written psychological tests followed often by a one-on-one interview with a clinical psychologist.

Polygraph Examination

Background Investigation

  • Government issues background investigation into every aspect of both your personal and professional history

Medical Examination

  • Physical Exam conducted by a medical doctor to evaluate your current level of health