FAQ’s Frequently Asked Questions

When is the next Police Officer Selection Test (POST), and what does it consist of?
The POST dates are listed on the exam registration form once you click the “APPLY” tab.  Please follow the directions on the top of the exam registration form to register for one of the upcoming exams.  The exam administered by the USCP is a three-part exam consisting of 65 multiple-choice questions:  Basic Reading Comprehension, Math (nothing greater than division), Spelling and Grammar.  It is based on a high school level.
You MUST achieve a score of at least 70 in each area assessed in order to proceed further in the recruiting process.

How long is the test and is there a fee to take the test?
You are allotted one and a half hours to complete the three-part examination.
No, there is no fee to take the test.

When am I notified if I was successful in passing the POST examination?
Test results are usually mailed in approximately two weeks after taking the test.  Applicants who are successful, will receive instructions to access the AVUE on-line application system to apply.  Your passing test scores are good indefinitely.

Applicants who fail the test, must wait 90 days before retaking the test.  Applicants who fail the test for the second time, must wait one-year before re-testing.
 
What are the age requirements to be considered for a position as a USCP officer?
Applicants must be at least 21 years of age at time of application, but not have reached your 37th birthday at the date of appointment.  If you do not enter on duty prior to your 37th birthday, you will not be eligible for further consideration.  This requirement is based upon Federal Law.  (Public Law 100-238, Section 102).

Exception to Age Requirements:  Applicants who are at least 20 ½ years of age by the date of the examination will be permitted to take the examination.  Also, there is a (Maximum age waiver with qualifying Federal law enforcement experience). Applicants may deduct from their actual age, the length of time he/she served as a Federal Law Enforcement officer.  (i.e., Age 40; served 5 years (40-5 = 35; eligible to apply for USCP).  Contact recruiting for details regarding Qualified Federal Law Enforcement.

Does the USCP accept lateral transfers from other police departments?
At the present time, USCP does not have a lateral transfer program.  Applications from out of state or other agencies must apply as an entry-level police recruit.  You still have to meet the minimum requirements for all interested applicants.

What is the salary for a USCP officer?
The starting salary while under going training is $51,859.  Upon graduation, as a Private with training the salary is increased to $53,677; after (30) months of satisfactory performance, and promotion to (PFC) Private First Class; salary is increased to 60,187.

How do I obtain an application to apply?
Applicants are provided with instructions on how to access the AVUE digital services on-line application once an applicant takes the examination and successfully pass the examination. 

Do I have to be a resident of the District of Columbia to become a USCP officer?
No, you do not have to be a resident of the District of Columbia.  We encourage all United States citizens who are interested in a career in law enforcement to apply.
                                                                                            
What are some factors that can hinder me; or cause me to be disqualified?
Some include, but not limited to: conviction of a felony or commission of a felony; adverse credit; recent drug use, irresponsible driving, poor work history, etc.

If I have a background check conducted by another agency; will USCP still conduct a background check?
Yes, The USCP Background Investigation Section conducts a thorough background investigation on every applicant who successfully advances through our recruitment process.

What area does United States Capitol Police Department patrol?
USCP officers have jurisdiction in 47 square block radius in and around the US Capitol, as well as Federal Police authority throughout the United States and its territories in performance of their duties.

How long does the hiring process take?
The hiring process typically takes between 6 – 12 months, upon receipt of your fully completed and certified on-line AVUE application.

What happens when I graduate from the academy?
Upon graduation, Police Recruits are promoted to the rank of Private and will be scheduled for an additional 4-6 weeks of training with a Field Training Officer.  Once training is completed, new officers are generally assigned to one of the various divisions within the US Capital Police Bureaus.  Location and schedules are usually determined according to the needs of the Department. 

How long must I wait to reapply for a position, if I am not selected?
You must wait at least one full year to reapply once you have been advised that you were not selected for a position.

What if I have a question or need additional information not included on the website?
For more information, please contact recruiting at 202-593-4252 or 1-866-561-USCP.