CITY TESTING
1. Candidates file an application online.
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2. City staff reviews the application for minimum qualifications.
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3. City staff administers a written examination (waived for applicants with a AA/AS (or higher) degree or a POST Pellet-B T-Score of 42 or higher).
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4. Police Department staff administers a physical abilities test, consisting of the following components:
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99-yard obstacle course,
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165-pound body drag,
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6-foot chain-link fence climb,
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6-foot solid-wall climb, and
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500-yard run.
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Police Department Testing
5. Police Department staff will screen the candidate's Personal History Statement and Pre-Background Interview Questionnaire for any disqualifying background issues.
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6. The first interview will be conducted by a panel of Police Department representatives.
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7. A polygraph exam will be administered.
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8. A thorough background investigation will be conducted.
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9. The Chief of Police will review the background investigation file and interview the candidate.
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10. Medical and psychological exams will be conducted.
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11. If the candidate's background is satisfactory and the candidate passes all steps of the hiring process, the candidate may be hired.
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How do i prepare for the
Physical abilities test?
99 -Yard Obstacle Course
165-Pound Body Drag
6-Foot Chain-Link Fence Climb
6-Foot Solid-Wall Climb
500 Yard Run
Frequently asked questions
Q: How old do I have to be to apply?
A: 20 ½ years of age to apply, there is no other age limit.
Q: Can I still apply with a DUI conviction?
A: 1 DUI conviction within 3 years of your application, 2 or more DUI convictions, or 1 DUI conviction as an officer would be a disqualifier.
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Q: Will poor credit, bankruptcy, or bills in collections be a disqualifier during the hiring process?
A: Not necessarily, each application will be reviewed and considered on a case-by-case basis.
Q: What are the education requirements?
A: A H.S. Diploma or GED equivalent or greater is required.
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Q: What is the policy on tattoos?
A: Employees may have visible tattoos on their arms and legs, but must receive approval prior to displaying in uniform.
Q: If hired where would I attend the academy?
A: The San Bernardino Police Department sends our candidates to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Academy. This is not a live onsite academy.
Q: If I am disqualified at any point during the hiring process can I reapply?
A: Yes, you may reapply every 30 days.
Q: If I am an out-of-state applicant can I consolidate any part(s) of the hiring process?
A: A limited amount of consolidation could occur during the hiring process.
Q: Will moving violation convictions (traffic tickets) disqualify me from the hiring process?
A: 3 or more moving violations within the past 3 years would be a disqualifier.
Q: If I obtained a Basic Academy POST Certificate will I have to attend/ complete a new Basic POST Academy?
A: No, your certificate of completion is valid for 3 years.
Q: Can I do a ride-along during the hiring process?
A: If you reach the background process a ride-along will be scheduled for you by your background investigator.
Q: What position do I apply for?
A: If you have not successfully completed a Basic POST Academy you would apply for the LET (Law Enforcement Trainee) position.
Q: Do I need to be a U.S. Citizen to apply?
A: You would need to be a citizen of the United States or a permanent resident alien who is eligible for and has applied for citizenship.