Testing Process


The Dallas Police Department accepts applications and conducts testing on a weekly basis. In addition to meeting the minimum qualifications, all applicants must have the required documents in order to begin the testing process.

The application/testing process consists of two phases. You must successfully complete Phase I in order to proceed to Phase II. Upon successful completion of both phases, and approval from the Dallas Police Department, you will be given an offer of employment and scheduled to begin the Dallas Police Academy.

APPROPRIATE DRESS ATTIRE IS REQUIRED THROUGHOUT THE PROCESS

PHASE I
(Testing Sequence May Vary)

Complete & Submit On-line Application

  • Go to Online Applications link (left side of screen) to submit an application.
  • The application must be submitted prior to proceeding to any other step.

Civil Service Test

  • Test consists of basic reading, writing and math comprehension.  
  • The application for the Civil Service Test must be completed online.

Preliminary Interview

  • In person interview and questionnaire.
  • Completion of all documents and waivers(Appropriate Athletic Wear Required)

Physical Fitness Test

  • Vertical Jump
  • Bench Press
  • Sit Ups For One Minute
  • Illinois Shuttle Run
  • 300 Meter Run
  • Push Ups For One Minute
  • 1.5 Mile Run 

Pre-Polygraph Examination

  • Screening tool that allows the applicant to answer (in his/her own words) questions regarding: employment history; criminal behavior; drug usage; as well as other areas which will be covered in the polygraph examination.

Polygraph Examination

Applicant Interview Board (Appropriate Business Attire Required)

  • The Applicant Interview Board (AIB) will be comprised of three Dallas Police Department officers who will interview the applicant.  The purpose of the AIB is to evaluate the applicant’s potential to become a successful police officer.  During this process, the applicant’s personal history statement will be reviewed and questioned about it.  During the application process, the applicant will be given some questions and asked to provide a written response, which will also be reviewed and evaluated by the AIB.  The applicant will then be presented with three different scenarios in which he/she will be asked to respond as if he/she was a police officer.  Law enforcement is inherently a stressful occupation and the applicant will be expected to respond appropriately to stressful situations.  The applicant will be evaluated on the following factors:

• Ability to follow directions
• Adaptability / Flexibility
• Decision Making / Situational Reasoning Ability
• Reaction to Pressure
• Interpersonal Skills / Ability to work with others
• Appearance / Bearing
• Oral Communication Skill
• Writing Skill

  • It is strongly suggested that the applicant wear business attire for this process.

PHASE II  

Background Investigation:

                                              FINAL PHASE

Final Review Board:  Conducted by a Chief of Police

Psychological Examination:  Written and oral exam

Medical Examination:  Arranged by the Dallas Police Department

Once you have sucessfully completed this entire process you will be given a conditional offer of employment and scheduled to attend our police academy.

If you have any questions regarding this process please contact a Dallas Police Department Recruiter.

                                                

An Equal Opportunity Employer

(214) 671-4409 or (800) 527-2948

recruiting-dpd@dpd.dallascityhall.com