Each Standard represents an area that is essential for success in public safety employment
All applicants must complete the Online Application on myPD.joinlapd.com. Please note that you must create a profile AND submit an application on Step 1 of the LAPD Candidate Seven Step Hiring Process shown in myPD.While completing the myPD application, you will be given the option of registering for the Fast-Track Testing process
The Multiple Choice (MC) Test is a 100-item test that evaluates your ability to read and write. There are four sections on the test: Clarity, Spelling, Reading Comprehension, and Vocabulary. If you pass the MC, your score does not expire. If you fail, you may retake the MC after 60 days.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR TAKING THE TEST ONLINE & IN-PERSONOPTION 1To register for the Online MULTIPLE CHOICE TEST:
NOTE: You MUST present a valid State or Federal issued photo identification card when appearing for an in-person test. Any candidate who does not have a valid State or Federal issued photo identification card WILL NOT be allowed to take the test.
PLEAS NOTE:The registration instructions for the MC Test apply to LAPD, Airport Police Officer, and Port Police Officer applicants.
OPTION 2In-Person testing,candidates can view In-Person testing locations and dates here:
Multiple-Choice Test Waiver Options:You can now waive the Multiple-Choice test if you satisfy any of the following conditions:
Candidates who feel that they qualify for a waiver can reach out to Angela Cheung at angela.cheung@lacity.org
PREPARATION :
Completion and submission of a Personal History Statement (PHS) is the first step of the Background Investigation. The PHS requires extensive biographical information, fingerprinting, and an interview with a background investigator. The investigation will include checks of employment, police, financial, education, and military records, as well as interviews with family members, neighbors, supervisors, co-workers, and friends. If, based on the information obtained, it appears that you meet the City's background standards, a thorough field investigation will be conducted.
In this two-part step in the process you are able to schedule your Department Interview and Polygraph Exam.
The Polygraph Examination is conducted to confirm information obtained during the selection process.The Department Interview Interview will be conducted by a panel to assess your personal accomplishments, job motivation, community involvement/awareness, problem solving skills, interpersonal skills, and oral communication skills. Only those candidates who pass this part of the process will receive a Conditional Job Offer. If you fail, you may retake the Department Interview after 3 months.
If you have not yet taken your Physical Fitness Qualifier, you need to take it now in order to move on to your Medical Exam in Step 5. Your goal is to achieve a minimum PFQ score of 50, indicating an adequate level of preparedness for the Academy. For more info on the PFQ, click on tile below. If you need assistance in increasing your score, you should attend the Candidate Advancement Program (CAP), click the tab in the toolbar above for info.
The Medical Evaluation is thorough and it is essential that you be in excellent health with no conditions, which would restrict your ability to safely perform the essential functions of the policeofficer job. Good physical condition is necessary, as training in the Academy is rigorous. Failure to be in excellent physical condition may delay or disrupt training and result in a dismissal from the Academy. Medical examination results are valid for up to 12 months, at the discretion of the City's medical staff. The written psychological test (valid for up to 12 months) will beadministered at this time.
The Field Investigation includes checks of employment, police, financial, education, and military records and interviews with family members, neighbors, supervisors, co-workers, and friends. The investigation may take from 60 to 180 days to complete. You will be evaluated on your past behavior and the extent to which your behavior demonstrates positive traits that support your candidacy for Police Officer. The findings of the background investigation are valid for 12 months.The Field Investigation during Step 6 provides you the time and opportunity to get in shape for the Academy. It is strongly recommended for candidates to use the CAP program to achieve the proper fitness level for success.
The Psychological Evaluation consists of an individual oral interview and evaluation by a City psychologist on factors related to successful performance in the difficult and stressful job of Police Officer. The information evaluated includes the written psychological tests along with information obtained in the background investigation process.
