Frequently Asked Questions
Some frequently asked questions regarding the entry-level Peace Officer classifications are:
- How long does it take to get to the Academy?
- How does my score on the Scoring Category Worksheet affect my eligibility to get hired?
- Why does the hiring process take so long?
- What are the typical steps?
- Is there an accelerated testing process for candidates in the military or who are from out of state?
- Can I transfer to CDCR directly from a police or sheriff's department?
- If my eyesight has been surgically corrected, will I be eligible to go through the selection process?
- What should I study for the written test?
- How can I prepare for the Physical Abilities Test (PAT)?
- Can I choose the prison I want to work at?
- What are my promotional opportunities once I become a Correctional Officer/Youth Correctional Officer?
How long does it take to get to the Academy?
It takes roughly six to eight months for a successful candidate to enter the Academy. The time fluctuates depending on the number of candidates and their personal histories. (Selection Process Overview).
How does my score on the Scoring Category Worksheet (SCW) affect my eligibility to get hired?
California Government Code (19057.3) requires that we offer appointments to candidates on the eligible list according to their score. Candidates with SCW scores 85 and above will be scheduled to participate in the written peace officer exam, and allowed to participate in the remaining components. Those whose SCW score is below 85 and pass the written test will have their names added to the eligible list, but will not be allowed to take the written Peace Officer Psychological Evaluation or participate in the remainder of the selection process until their scores become reachable.
Why does the hiring process take so long?
Civil Service law requires that the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation administer competitive examinations for all qualified applicants based on each applicant’s education, work and legal history. California Government Code Section 1031 and Penal Code Section 13601 outline additional requirements for peace officers, where candidates must pass drug screenings, physical tests, psychological exams, and medical exams, and thorough background investigations before being hired. All of these steps take time. (Selection Process Overview).
Applicants apply online; if they meet the minimum requirements they are scheduled to take the written exam. Applicants with a SCW score of 85 or greater and who pass the written exam then take the written component of the Peace Officer Psychological Evaluation and are then scheduled for their Physical Abilities Test. Once candidates pass the Physical Abilities Test, they are fingerprinted and undergo a thorough background investigation. At the conclusion of the background investigation, interviews with psychologists are scheduled and medical examinations are set up. Once these steps are cleared, candidates are placed on the certification list and contacted for appointment based on their ranking. After being tested to make sure candidates are tuberculosis free, candidates are offered an assignment to an institution. If the candidates accept the assignment, they will be scheduled for the next available 16-week Training Academy.
Is there an accelerated testing process for candidates in the military or who are from out of state?
The Department does not offer accelerated testing to accommodate one group of candidates over another. However, the Department does conduct testing throughout the state at its testing centers (Sacramento, Fresno, Rancho Cucamonga) or at an off-site workshop.
The Department does not accept direct "lateral" transfers. Having prior law enforcement experience, however, is a definite advantage for some candidates as they go through the selection process.
Applicants who have undergone eye surgery to meet minimum visual standards may be required to submit medical data, at their own expense, to demonstrate visual stability. There is a required waiting period of one year after surgery to be appointed. For information on the necessary protocol involved, contact the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Pre-Employment Medical Unit at 2201 Broadway, Sacramento, CA 95818, or call 1-866-232-JOBS. (Click here for additional information regarding soft contact lenses and corrective surgery).
What should I study for the written test?
To be successful, candidates must possess strong reading and writing skills equivalent to the 12th grade level. Suggestions:
- Study materials that review reading skills, reading comprehension, English grammar, punctuation, spelling and composition.
- Enroll in college courses or adult school classes to review or improve English, reading comprehension and writing skills.
- Take our Sample Test to learn more about the types of questions asked on the exam.
How can I prepare for the Physical Abilities Test (PAT)?
Engage in a physical fitness program designed to improve flexibility, muscular strength and cardio-respiratory endurance. Click here for additional information on how to prepare for the Physical Abilities Test.
Can I choose the prison I want to work at?
Our Officers are offered employment at locations with the greatest hiring need at the time of hire; whenever possible, candidates are assigned to institutions close to their homes.
Promotions from the Correctional Officer / Youth Correctional Officer classification typically follow this chain of command:
- Correctional Sergeant
- Correctional Lieutenant
- Correctional Captain
- Facility Captain
- Correctional Administrator (Associate Warden)
- Chief Deputy Warden
- Warden
Other CDCR peace officer series include:
For more information on Peace Officer career opportunities, call our TOLL-FREE telephone number at (866) 232-JOBS (5627) to speak with our Customer Service Staff, or visit our Customer Service page, by clicking this link.
For more information regarding other CDCR employment opportunities, please contact our Department's other recruitment units:
- Non-Peace Officer Careers
Call Toll-Free (888) 232-4584
Or email: careers@cdcr.ca.gov - Medical Careers at Adult Institutions
Call Toll-Free (877) 793-4473
Or email: medcareers@cdcr.ca.gov
For information about other jobs with the State of California, pleast visit www.spb.ca.gov.
All documents require Adobe Acrobat. Click here to download a free copy 
