Helpful links and essential forms
Want to become a police officer in California? Check out our list of police recruitment forms and links to guide you through the hiring process.
Physical Ability Test
Learn about the California police physical ability test and how to best prepare for it. ( connect2agencies )
Written Exam
Learn what the two most common written exams are in California, how to practice, testing dates, and locations. ( connect2agencies )
Preparation guide for the POST entry-level test battery ( pdf )
Provides information for agencies and applicants, including a thorough overview of the test, practice test items, and test-taking strategies. ( POST )
Practice test for the National Testing Network Exam. ( NTN )
Testing locations for the National Testing Network Exam. ( NTN )
POST PELLETB Testing Northern California
POST PELLETB Test in Northern California $12. ( South Bay Regional Public Safety Training Academy )
Oral Interview or Oral Boards
POST’s Guide to interview peace officer candidates ( pdf )
Provides guidance and advice for all phases of the peace officer interview process. ( POST )
Police Oral Board Interview Article
Learn about what the California police oral board interview is like and how to best prepare for it. ( connect2agencies )
Background Investigation
Personal History Statment Peace Officer ( doc )
Personal history statement document that applicants must complete. ( POST )
POST’s Background Investigation manual ( pdf )
Provides guidance to assist background investigators in the conduct of background investigations of both peace officers and public safety dispatchers. The manual contains descriptions of the statutory and regulatory requirements that must be addressed as part of the background investigation. ( POST )
Medical Evaluation
Medical History Statement ( pdf )
One of several police recruitment forms applicants need to fill out. The form includes questions regarding your medical history in addition to a background investigation where completeness and accuracy are critical. ( POST )
Salary
Learn about police officer salaries in California. ( connect2agencies )