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Step 3:
Physical Fitness Test

Person running

As a peace officer, you must be able to perform physically demanding activities to help maintain security and to safely respond to emergencies within a correctional environment.

The Physical Fitness Test (PFT) evaluates the strength, endurance, and agility required to perform expected essential duties. It tests your ability to perform physical functions at the academy and thereafter at your assigned institution or facility.

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90%

of candidates pass
the PFT

During the test, you will:

Run a 500-yard course on a variety of different surfaces, including:

  • Complete a mini obstacle course
  • Carry two (2) 45-pound kettlebells 50 yards and set them down
  • Carry one (1) 45-pound kettlebell 75 yards and set it down
  • Carry one (1) 30-pound kettlebell 110 yards and set it down

Update: Course completion time has been updated to 5 minutes and 35 seconds.

Timer clock

To pass the PFT, applicants must complete the course in no more than 5 minutes and 35 seconds.

PFT Preparation

Applicants are notified via email with a website link to self-schedule their PFT. The assigned test location is based on the regional center chosen on the application.

The total duration of the PFT event may range from 3 – 4 hours, depending on the numbers of applicants and operational needs. Applicants should plan accordingly and ensure they are available for the duration of the event. Please note: Cell phones are not permitted in the testing area, which should remain locked in your vehicle.

Applicants are encouraged to prepare for the PFT by engaging in regular physical activity such as cardiovascular conditioning, strength training and stretching exercises six to twelve weeks before participating in the PFT. Consult a medical professional before beginning any exercise program.

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For help preparing for the PFT, review the Candidate Preparation Guide.

Applicants are encouraged to dress in exercise attire and be ready to participate in physically demanding activity. Workout gloves are not permitted. Applicants must bring:

  • A valid form of photo identification (s)
  • PFT participant agreement form

Note: Do not bring additional documents not specified in the instructions or large items such as binders or folders. 

Additional Information and Frequently Asked Questions

Applicants are notified via email with a website link to self-schedule their PFT. The assigned test location is based on the regional center chosen on the application.

PFT Military Waiver

United States military and veteran applicants who provide certification of meeting military physical fitness standards within the past year may be eligible for a Military PFT Waiver. The waiver of the CDCR PFT is solely for the selection process and does not apply to the Basic Correctional Officer Academy (BCOA) physical testing requirements. Visit our Military and Veteran Applicants page for more information.

What else occurs in conjunction with the PFT event?

After successfully completing the PFT, applicants will attend an informational presentation conducted by field training sergeants that provides an overview of correctional officer training, benefits, and career paths.

Applicants will then complete their Live Scan fingerprinting on site or at a nearby facility, as part of the background process. Below is a list of documents applicants are required to bring to complete their Live Scan:

  • Request for Live Scan Service – CDCR 3056 Form
  • Original Social Security Card
  • Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
  • Divorce Decree (if applicable)
  • Legal Name Change Documents (Adoption, Change of Birth Name) (if applicable)
  • Notarized Authorization for Release of Information Form
  • Bring one if the following citizenship requirement documents:
    • Original Birth Certificate
    • Naturalization Certificate
    • United States Passport
    • Permanent Resident Card
  • Employment Authorization Document (if applicable)

Who do I contact if there is an emergency that prevents me from taking the PFT?

Applicants who encounter an emergency the day of PFT that prevents them from attending should contact their regional testing center as soon as possible. If the emergency is prior to PFT, applicants can reschedule via the self-scheduling website.

What happens if I fail a portion of the PFT?

The PFT is a single, pass or fail event.  Applicants who fail to appear within the defined timeframe or who fail to finish the full course in five minutes five seconds (5:35) or less will be disqualified from this examination and ineligible to reapply for 30 days