The difficulty of the police officer exam depends on where you are taking it. Each state has its own state police examinations, and there are county and regional examinations as well. One thing that you can count on is that the police officer exam will be demanding.
It is important that police officers are well trained for their future duties. The training is very stringent. A demanding examination weeds out candidates that the examining officers don’t believe are up to par. This tough but fair testing process favors the prepared.
The police officer exam typically covers both physical strength and qualifications and mental acuity. You will often be required to take a written examination as well as perform a physical test. To pass the police examination, you must pass both parts of the test.
To prepare for the police officer examination, take the time to contact the testing agency and ask if they can tell you the material that will be covered on the test. Often they have study material that you can use to prepare for the written examination. For the physical examination, most testing agencies will tell you what the test involves so that you can prepare on your own.
Some testing agencies offer test preparation classes. If one is available, participating can greatly increase your chances of success. If there is no test prep class available, and the testing agency doesn’t have study materials available, there are several things that you can do to prepare.
Visit your local library. They often have older versions of various civil service tests. Taking practice tests with these materials can help familiarize you with the subject matter and testing style you will be exposed to. In addition, talk to new police officers. Contact your local station and ask to be put in touch with new police officers. Ask them what their testing experience was like, and what surprised them about the test.
Get in excellent physical shape. Even if this means that you have to hire a personal trainer for a few months, being in good all around shape will increase your odds of doing well on the physical part of the examination, no matter what it involves. If you know what the test involves, work with a trainer to develop the skills necessary for the test. Increasing your running speed and endurance and physical strength are always a good idea.
To successfully pass a police officer exam you have to be prepared. This is the first step in the training you will receive to save lives. The police academy doesn’t have room for everyone who applies, so the examination is a way to choose those who show the most promise and determination.
