How to Prepare for a Police Recruit Oral Exam

Police recruits must pass an oral examination before joining the force.

Police officers must possess good communication skills as they interact with the public every day. Police officers must be able to clearly describe situations and recall important facts. Memory, comprehension, reasoning and verbal skills are essential to be a successful law enforcement officer. Police departments routinely administer oral examinations to all new recruits before they are hired. Successful recruits speak clearly and with confidence, and are able to comprehend instructions and arrive at a conclusion based on logic and reasoning. Practice can help you perform better when you take the police recruit oral exam.

Things You'll Need

• Dark business suit and tie
• List of practice questions
• Mirror

Instructions

1. Obtain a practice test or study guide with practice questions from the police department you are seeking to join or other departments in your region. Read each question or example thoroughly before attempting to answer the practice questions. Stand or sit in front of a mirror and watch yourself answer the questions. Be aware of any excessive movements that may be distracting or demonstrate nervousness.

2. Demonstrate your comprehension of the question that is asked. Repeat the question back in your own words and then answer the question. Avoid unnecessary commentary or voicing your personal opinions. Speak in a clear, confident voice.

3. Demonstrate your ability to apply logic and reasoning when answering questions. Answer complex questions by stating the first, then the second and finally the third point of your answer. Restate important facts that you can use to support your reasoning.

4. Prepare well for the last question. Answer questions about why you want to be a police officer or if there is any additional information that you want to share. Use this opportunity to clarify your reasons for applying to be a police officer. Know what you will tell the examiners if they ask you why you would be an asset to the police force.

Tips & Warnings

• Dress appropriately. Wear a dark suit, white or light-colored shirt and a tie. Make sure your shoes are clean and polished.

• Ask a friend or relative to read questions aloud and then listen to your answers.

• Practicing in front of a mirror can help you to recognize any nervous movements, such as tapping your foot.

• Avoid too much coffee prior to the examination. Caffeine can make you jittery and elevate your blood pressure.

• Do not wear casual clothes or sandals to the examination.

• Sit up straight in the chair and avoid crossing your legs.

References

• Las Vegas Police Department: Official Police Department Study Guide and Sample Test
• City of Pittsburgh: Police Officer Recruit Oral Examination Guide

Resources

• Real Police: Police Oral Boards
• Newsreel Network: How to Prepare for the Police Oral Interview