Police polygraph questions about drug use. Not much, just a bit and not for long.

Police polygraph questions about drug use College. Mar 22, 2016 · I'm in the process of applying to a police entry position near my hometown, and I'm worried about the background checks & polygraph test concerning prior drug use. There are no surprise questions in modern polygraph techniques. What do they ask you on police polygraph test? The specific questions may vary, but they generally pertain to the applicant’s background, criminal history, drug use, and other potentially disqualifying factors. Background Investigation – Applicants who proceed through processing will have a thorough, comprehensive background investigation conducted by the Pennsylvania State Police. The Office of Human Resources, in conjunction with the DFS, will develop a list of the areas from which polygraph questions will be drawn, i. Some of the initial paperwork asks about drug usage, and I know this often comes up on the polygraph test. In order to formulate additional polygraph questions which you can comfortably answer, it is necessary to know a great deal about your background. Still passed but stressful Feb 6, 2012 · LAPD Polygraph Questions Disclosed (Read 266664 times) Pages: 1 Reply Add Poll Send Topic Print ‹ No Topic | Next Topic › LAPD Polygraph Questions Disclosed Name: E-mail: Your Verification Code is: Please type the characters that appear in the image. Does NYPD do polygraphs? We share sample police polygraph police test questions. Oct 17, 2020 · The DoD Lifestyle exam questions cover involvement in a serious crime, personal involvement with illegal drugs during the last seven years, and intentional falsification of the security forms. Problems stemming from the use of the polygraph may be related to misunderstanding of the polygraph test and to field practices surrounding the use of polygraphy in the police selection process. How to properly answer drug questions on background check Hi, I received a TO and will need to complete my background check. Hello, I’m (22F) currently in the process for a few city PD’s and I’ve been asking a lot of the people I know in Law Enforcement for their advice. Can nervousness affect the test results? Aug 18, 2017 · Are you looking for common questions that you'll likely be asked during the police officer polygraph test? Get typical questions for the police polygraph test. See my special advice on the right column. The test questions are based on the answers the examinee gives during the interview, and the final wording of the test questions are negotiated between the examiner and examinee prior to the testing phase. Q2. If I only remember one of the times (was my birthday), but can’t remember the details for the remaining, what is the best way to answer these questions. Failure to do so WILL dq you if the BI finds out you omitted past drug use. The driver had admitted that we had took edibles, and the Failure to be truthful during the hiring process demonstrates a lack of integrity, which is not acceptable for this position. If you fail the polygraph examination because you withheld information about illegal drug use, criminal activity, or any other violation, you will be automatically disqualified from consideration for this position and all future employment with the FBI. Is there any questions regarding involvement with police? Back in 2017, my friends car was pulled over for going over the speed limit. For police applicants or officers undergoing internal investigations, the queries often delve into areas such as past criminal activity, substance While applicants for LAPD officer positions are required to submit to polygraph screening, I don't see any such requirement listed for the position of "Police Service Representative" (911 dispatcher): Worried about your upcoming polygraph test? Our essential tips provide the guidance you need to pass with confidence and accuracy. Once you know what type of police polygraph questions to expect, things get much, much easier. Talk to your examiner if you have questions about what you learned. Polygraph The polygraph is conducted by a certified polygraph examiner through the Fairfax County Police Department. Learn about the steps involved, what to expect during the examination, and how to prepare for success. This confidential pre-investigative questionnaire is designed to assist background detectives in conducting a preliminary background screening. Want to pass your Police Polygraph? Learn common questions, how the test works, and strategies to pass the lie detector in your law enforcement career. 55 votes, 164 comments. I’ve noticed that many of them have had issues with the polygraph ( having to retake it and getting dq’d from places for things they never did). The polygraph evaluation measures the accuracy of information provided during the selection process. Some people refer to polygraph examinations as lie detector tests. The following sections will detail how polygraphs are used during pre-employment screening, internal affairs Oct 1, 2007 · You should decide prior to your polygraph how you are going to answer such questions. If their asking questions pertaining to criminal history or your past medical history don’t lie cause that’s all on record but if they ask you about prior drug use just lie I learned the hard way. The questions will focus on a variety of things such as your previous employment history, driving record, drug use, and criminal history. If your agency has scheduled you for a drug screen, please arrive to the test site prepared to give a urinalysis sample. From anectdotal evidence, it seems that a common way of failing one's polygraph is to change your answers, even if you are steered into such a change. Additional Then she went over all the questions she was going to ask me on the polygraph. To pass the lie detector test, know what to expect. Keep reading for a short excerpt concerning police polygraph questions from the eBook Deadly Mistakes Police Applicants Make, which is part of the Police Entry Level Super Course. I had a few questions I hope you all could shed some light on for me. The questions asked during police polygraph exams generally fall into several key categories. Just wait like 3 months and apply. , felony convictions, work history, illegal drug use, etc. The polygraph examiner is authorized by this Department to ask any and all questions relating to the information in this booklet. Police officer polygraph test questions typically fall into several categories, each targeting different aspects of a candidate’s history and behavior. To be honest with you, that is a decent amount of drug use in a FD eyes and they may see it as a "pattern". Is this all true? (b) Polygraph examiners shall ask questions including, but not limited to, the following topics: General background, employment history, police/corrections experience, driving record, military service, arrest information, personal habits, illegal drug use or possession, credit/financial, sexual activities, domestic violence/temperament, theft, and security and personal associations. After the oral, we get our final rank and I’m hoping I get good enough so I can take the polygraph. Familiarizing yourself with questions to the police polygraph test is one to rid yourself of nerves. I was wondering if anyone on here could tell me what questions they or someone they know were asked when doing the polygraph test to become an officer? The article Integration of Pre-Employment Polygraph Screening into the Police Selection Process by Mark Handler, Charles R. trueI had to take a polygraph test to work in law enforcement as an IT worker. Jul 18, 2024 · The in-test phase of a polygraph examination involves the polygrapher asking the individual CI or LifeStyle Polygraph questions, depending on the agency. Even if they do hair test, it likely won't go back further than that. 2 sets of questions, each set about 5-7 questions, each set asked a total of 2 times. Knowledge approaches look for responses that There probably are some standard questions such as have you ever used illegal drugs, are you a US citizen, have you ever stolen, are you lying, and so on. In this guide, you will find more information about the U. Police department polygraph questions are specialized inquiries designed to detect deception during polygraph examinations. You'll find examples of the kinds of questions asked in this training document produced by the federal polygraph school that trains all federal polygraph operators. Oct 2, 2025 · Police officer polygraph test questions typically fall into several categories, each targeting different aspects of a candidate’s history and behavior. Dec 9, 2018 · Polygraph, or lie detector tests, measure your body's responses to relevant and irrelevant "yes" or "no" questions. So I'm applying to some open positions for police cadet in surrounding cities. The primary objective is to assess a candidate’s honesty, integrity, and suitability for law enforcement. Law enforcement agencies use these questions to assess the honesty of candidates The polygraphist shall use test formats that are accepted by the American Polygraph Association, the California Association of Polygraph Examiners, or the American Association of Police Polygraphists. Then it was over. Follow up and additional questions will be asked as the investigation continues. Apr 20, 2020 · Many police polygraph questions ask about drug use and/or theft. Oct 2, 2025 · What Questions Are On The Police Polygraph Test For Employment? The police polygraph test for employment assesses candidates' prior work history and evaluates the honesty of their responses on job applications. Mar 16, 2025 · Curious about the questions asked during a police polygraph exam? Our comprehensive list covers the types of questions typically used, from background inquiries to specific incident-related queries, giving you insight into what law enforcement agencies look for during these tests. Polygraph is a general term that refers to the use of autonomic physiological measures to make assessments about a person’s credibility. These are often performed along with Integrity Questionnaires. Below is a comprehensive list of questions that may be asked during a polygraph screening. For police applicants or officers undergoing internal investigations, the queries often delve into areas such as past criminal activity, substance I know the rules on drug use and getting clearance and you should wait up to a year or so before you should even apply but I am curious as how my odds stand in the future. Apr 6, 2006 · How important is it to disclose past minor drug use, during the application process? Once a few years ago, I tried marijuana, but only once. Mar 23, 2011 · I want to be a police officer and I'm about to go through the hiring process. This evaluation can take up to four hours to complete. However, considering the number of police officers out there who have used illegal drugs and broke another laws, they apparently don't mean much. These include inquiries about illegal drug use, criminal history, involvement in theft or violence, falsification of application information, and any behavior that might indicate untrustworthiness or unreliability. Answering these […] Learn how to prepare for your police officer Polygraph Exam and how to avoid falsely failing the lie detector test. Mar 20, 2023 · In addition, some people may be able to control their physiological responses to questions, making it difficult for the examiner to determine if they are lying. Exemptions granted by The Employee Polygraph Protection Act of 1988 allow pre-employment polygraph examinations for employees of banks, hospitals, nursing homes, drug warehouses, armored car companies and law enforcement agencies. This phase can involve questions about drug and alcohol use, sexual misconduct, mental health, family relationships, compulsive or addictive behavior, and more. So how it will usually go is you’ll talk about your past beforehand and the actual question on the test will be “other than what we talked about have you used any drugs. Oct 25, 2023 · A counterintelligence-scope polygraph will not include any questions about drug use. But before the test I was asked about 25. That being said, CBP is currently using the “Whole Person Approach” and as long as you don’t lie about drug use, even if it falls within those timeframes, you’re very unlikely to be disqualified. My examiner said she believed me and thinks I am a strong candidate. It is going to be tough to be hired, but it can I took a polygraph for law enforcement academy. I was completely honest in all questions as I… Polygraph / Lie Detector Examinations and Integrity Questionnaires There are several police services across North America that have begun to use polygraph examinations on applicants. Applicants will be asked personal questions such as: · How often do you drink Falsification, omission, or misrepresentation of any information during the completion of the Polygraph Screening Booklet, Polygraph Examination, the Formal Application for Employment, and any other documents/processes associated with the Cadet Selection Procedures. Aug 15, 2017 · Learn Tips, and strategies on how to prepare for the police polygraph test or exam. Prepare for the Police Polygraph test with expert tips and proven strategies to ensure success, boost confidence, and pass the exam. 6 days ago · Polygraph examiners ask a standard list of questions about drug use, criminal history, foreign contacts and mishandling of classified information. Am I hiding any crimes against a person, was I being truthful about my drug use history, general questions like that. Hey guys. Why Police Departments Use Polygraphs: Purpose and Context Polygraph examinations serve a multifaceted role within police departments and agencies. Several vendors offer tools that can make the hiring process more effective and efficient, so agencies can make Jan 22, 2024 · A prototypical peace officer selection process, although the specific hiring process varies from agency to agency. These categories include personal background, drug and alcohol use, criminal behavior, and employment history Sep 10, 2025 · Gain a comprehensive understanding of the CBP polygraph exam process. Only asked 4 or 5 questions for the actual polygraph. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Also if you don’t put it down, and during the background check they uncover you have done it once and you didn’t mention it- you WILL be disqualified. Jul 10, 2025 · FAQs Q1. There is a great deal of inaccurate information on the internet about the polygraph, and everyone’s polygraph experience is different. I used to smoke weed a lot (haven't in a few months though) and I also used to do some party drugs. Hi everyone, I am in the progress of becoming a state police cadet for PSP. Some of the polygraph questions you will be asked A Certified Polygraph Examiner from our Department will conduct the Polygraph Examination Phase. [2] The test simultaneously measures several physiological responses Mar 14, 2018 · You probably aren’t going to pass a polygraph if they ask if you have ever used drugs or lied on your SF-86. The characters must be typed in the same order, and they are case-sensitive Aug 6, 2018 · Do you want to be a police officer but you are unsure if prior drug use will stop you?Please subscribe to my channel and send any further questions to smoken Jan 4, 2019 · The polygraph can be an extremely valuable tool for investigators if it's used properly by a qualified examiner. In the past year, I’ve done 2 weed edibles and smoked week once. [1] Passing a polygraph test, also known as a “lie detector” test, is often a requirement during pre-employment screening for a career in law enforcement. Jan 3, 2025 · Learn about polygraph (lie detector) tests, how they work, their use in criminal justice, and their admissibility in court. Polygraphs, commonly known as lie detector tests, measure physiological responses such as heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, and skin conductivity while the subject answers questions. The contents of this booklet are held "CONFIDENTIAL," except when essential to the conduct of proper official police business and national Jan 15, 2019 · Introduction As part of the hiring process, candidates are required to undertake a police polygraph, known colloquially as lie detection. Direct any questions to PSOHC by phone 703-246-4949. I am a 21 year old female getting ready to finish my degree in Criminal Justice. In the past, I have used weed. Krapohl, Raymond Nelson, and Stephen Griffin, J Police Crim Psych (2009), is an excellent overview of many of the issues and problems that may arise during the use of the polygraph in the screening of public safety job applicants. During the polygraph examination, you will have an opportunity to give an explanation on any and all information you disclosed. police hiring process, how to prepare for it, and how to pass the assessments. Some told me that do-good, clean friends of theirs were “inconclusive” on the polygraph Aug 7, 2025 · Police departments use polygraph examinations to verify information provided by candidates during their application and interview stages. As a prerequisite for employment, you are required to submit to a pre-employment polygraph examination. The purpose of these simple questions is to establish a baseline of normative activity for the polygraph, such that any discrepancies in the interrogative questions (see below) will become detected as potential lies. In the second phase, they hook you up to the polygraph and ask two series of very specific questions, one called "lifestyle" and one called "national security. Stay calm, be confident, and hope that the rest of your application and interview has made them want to hire you. Regardless, you must disclose all drug use on the polygraph. What are the 16 STANDARD police employment polygraph questions? What are the 50+ POSSIBLE police employment polygraph Oct 16, 2021 · "Have you ever taken drugs?"; one of the most common questions asked during the oral board exam. Study for it like you would any other test. However, a so-called “full-scope” or “lifestyle” polygraph will include questions about drug use and undetected major crimes at any point during your life. Prepare for your polygraph exam confidently. Learn about the different types of questions, etc. Jul 23, 2025 · A polygraph test is a test that uses a machine to measure responses from your body during the course of an interview, usually consisting of questions about your past. Apr 2, 2025 · In the context of law enforcement, a polygraph examination involves a series of inquiries designed to assess the veracity of a subject's statements. I heard a lot of people failing, polygraphers accusing people of countermeasures and lying. If you have questions about pre-employment polygraph screening for your employees, please contact us. Examiner said I spiked when I was asked if I lied about anything on my application and I was nervous thinking maybe I did or maybe I forgot something. Discover common questions that you'll be asked during the lie detector test. Examiners carefully tailor questions to uncover any relevant issues that might affect job performance or ethical judgment. ” Index to Advertisers: March 2004 - Police Chief Magazine Skip to content Languages Accessibility Police Chief Magazine LOGIN SUBSCRIBE JOIN Linkedin Facebook Instagram X Oct 24, 2020 · I personally had a case in which a suspect passed the polygraph even though he actually DID commit the burglary in question, and have heard similar types of things happening in other officers' cases. Drug testing is customarily administered on the same day as polygraph examinations. During the actual polygraph examination, you must answer questions with a definite, “YES,” or “NO” only. There are two major families of polygraph techniques. Understanding the specific contexts in which these tests are employed provides crucial insight into their perceived value and limitations. This article explains how it works, its applications, and the role it plays in solving crimes and verifying statements. Your responses will be verified during a comprehensive background investigation, which includes a truth verification examination and in-depth interviews with you and those POLYGRAPH SCREENING BOOKLET CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT AND INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANTS As an applicant taking the Pennsylvania State Police Polygraph Examination, I certify that I will not divulge to anyone, anything about the polygraph questions or any facet of this examination. Advantages and disadvantages of using polygraph tests in the police hiring process There are potential advantages and disadvantages to using polygraph tests in the police hiring process. pdf Police Technologies Zero Tolerance for Officer Injuries Officer Fitness and Safety Anabolic Steroid Use by Police Officers THE PROFESSIONAL VOICE OF LAW ENFORCEMENT JUNE 2008 Circle no 53 on Reader Response What are the questions they asked you on the polygraph test? I have nothing to hide, and if they ask me a question I’ll answer it with honesty, but I definitely have some past experiences that I’d rather be prepared to answer instead of being surprised. Currently the policy is to ask about drug use for the last 90 days for marijuana and 3 years for all other illegal drugs. Keep in mind a polygraph can ONLY ask yes/no questions. If you are unclear as to the meaning of the question you should get clarification prior to the polygraph. The questions might also focus on drug use, both past and current because substance abuse can impact an employee’s performance and reliability. Aug 27, 2017 · Don’t go into your test unprepared, instead Click Here to download a comprehensive list of common polygraph test questions with explanation on how to answer them. Sep 18, 2025 · The polygraph examination is a crucial step in the hiring process for many law enforcement agencies. . 100 votes, 78 comments. Apr 19, 2014 · The polygraph test it complete BS, and really a coin flip (even if you are completely honest). Polygraph techniques find wide application in the criminal justice and national security systems of many countries, and their use is growing worldwide. Aug 7, 2017 · At many agencies (mine included), steroid use is an automatic dq. As a college student who wants to join law enforcement, I understand that there is a polygraph test required to get with an agency. I have my oral exam today, and already passed my written exam. Policechiefjune2008_web. I was wondering within the polygraph if these two things would be The test questions are based on the answers the examinee gives during the interview, and the final wording of the test questions are negotiated between the examiner and examinee prior to the testing phase. I'm confused that I would not pass that question since I have been completely honest about everything in my background including my drug use, which has been very minimal. The Polygraph Pre-Interview Prior to actually being given the exam there will be a pre-test interview and typically you’ll be asked questions for about 20 to 30 minutes. The polygraphist shall use test formats that are accepted by the American Polygraph Association, the California Association of Polygraph Examiners, or the American Association of Police Polygraphists. Yet the polygraph operator accuses you of "having a problem" with the drug use question, and asks whether you might feel more comfortable stating that you used marijuana "less than ten times," and asks you to sign a statement to that effect. You won't get an actual answer to your question here, you'll just have a bunch of replies saying you shouldn't even apply, or that you somehow won't be a good police officer, because you've smoked weed since (insert arbitrary amount of time). You’re best option is to be honest, which you probably won’t be cleared due to recent drug use even if you tell the truth. I don't use anything else, and I won't be in the future You are being considered for employment with the Maryland State Police. In a law enforcement preemployment polygraph examination, the questions include, but are not limited to, job related inquiries as the theft from previous employers, falsification of information on the job applications, the use of illegal drugs, and criminal activities. THE POLYGRAPH EXAMINER IS AUTHORIZED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS SYSTEM POLICE TO ASK YOU QUESTIONS TO DETERMINE IF YOU WERE TRUTHFUL ABOUT ANY ILLEGAL DRUG USAGE. I applied for a AO job with lbfd and passed everything with flying colors haven’t smoked weed in almost 2 years but did shrooms like 8 months ago. This test often invokes fear, anxiety and dread; participants unsure whether the detection will report accurately their statements of truth. Know how to prepare for the lie detector test. I know the rules on drug use and getting clearance and you should wait up to a year or so before you should even apply but I am curious as how my odds stand in the future. The police polygraph test will, however, begin by asking you a series of basic questions such as asking if you’re married. Federal law enforcement agencies with a full scope polygraph requirement use a technique called the Law Enforcement Pre-Employment Test. Sep 10, 2025 · Gain a comprehensive understanding of the CBP polygraph exam process. It would be prudent to read up on the polygraph and learn about the trickery behind it in advance. " Lifestyle questions include questions about drug use, possible crimes, etc. Polygraph Examination Deception: Any detected deception during the polygraph examination or the use of “countermeasures” to defeat the polygraph test will result in disqualification. e. I don't use anything else, and I won't be in the future Apr 2, 2025 · In the context of law enforcement, a polygraph examination involves a series of inquiries designed to assess the veracity of a subject's statements. This questionnaire will assist the examiner in formulating questions for your test. Discover useful information on police polygraph test questions and answers to help you succeed during your evaluation. I failed my first attempt at the polygraph for the local police department. , and national security questions include questions about foreign contacts, involvement in terrorism, etc. Each category is designed to expose potential risks associated with hiring the applicant. I haven't on either, have only smoked weed 4-6 times ever. How often do police applicants lie on their polygraph/background statement and get away with it? What are the chances of lying on a police hiring polygraph, and getting away with it? Apr 29, 2024 · Explore what to expect on your polygraph test day (commonly known as a lie detector test), get valuable preparation tips, understand the three phases of a polygraph, and learn about how a professional polygraph examiner administers it. They are crime-specific questions and refer to the answers provided in the pre-interview phase and in other answers you provided during the initial application process. You are being considered for employment with the Maryland State Police. These categories include personal background, drug and alcohol use, criminal behavior, and employment history Apr 19, 2014 · The polygraph test it complete BS, and really a coin flip (even if you are completely honest). Aug 2, 2025 · The police polygraph is a tool used in law enforcement investigations. This test is designed to assess the truthfulness and integrity of applicants by exploring various aspects of their personal and professional history. Even sold a joint. Not much, just a bit and not for long. Candidates are often required to detail their previous employment and reasons for leaving each position. Regardless of how honest you choose to be, your polygraph operator will lie to you throughout the procedure. I know I'll be given a polygraph test and some of the question regard drug use. Hey guys, I have a few questions on my upcoming polygraph Friday the 24th. Mar 4, 2025 · Learn about the types of questions asked in polygraph tests, including general, case-related, & control questions. She has recommended that I have a second polygraph. Additionally, recently I had another joint. In all cases, since drugs, including marijuana, affect both suitability for interviewing and suitability for polygraph testing, examiners need to consider both medical use and illegal drug use before conducting examinations; knowledge or suspicion of either usage would lead the examiner to anticipate abnormalities that might occur. This would obviously never be picked up on a drug test, but possibly a polygraph test if I lied about it. As part of that process, it will be necessary for you to complete this booklet. Just remember: a polygraph is a piece of trash that has the same degree of accuracy discerning truth from lie as a Scientology e-meter has in figuring out your operating thetan level (ie none, it's all made up crap). Click the title above to learn moreProduct Feature: Advanced Tools to Help Police Agencies Recruit and Retain - Police Chief Magazine Despite pressure to fill vacancies, law enforcement leaders know they cannot sacrifice quality in the name of quantity or fail to retain top talent. S. Learn how to answer it effectively. Law-enforcement pre-employment polygraph examinations are a decision-support tool intended to add incremental validity to the personnel selection process. First time was about twenty years ago. These inquiries are carefully constructed to elicit physiological responses indicative of deception. Should I disclose it anyway during the application process? or just pretend it never happened. May 21, 2024 · Common questions can include inquiries about theft from previous employers, misuse of company resources, or involvement in illegal activities. I don't know if I committed a crime, but I don't feel like finding out. Jan 14, 2024 · You're an all star! #polygraphtest #polygraphtest #femalepoliceofficer Keywords: polygraph test, polygraph, polygraph test to become a police officer, polygraph test questions, polygraph test If you have a polygraph- they will ask about drug use and then you will have that on your mind. These inquiries assess current and past usage of illegal substances or misuse of prescription drugs. Police polygraph exams typically include questions about the applicant's background, criminal history, drug use, employment history, and any involvement in illegal activities. There were certain questions I had to lie on to get the job. DRUG USE The following drug use would disqualify an applicant if any of the below mentioned were indicated in the review of the application packet, polygraph examination or background investigation: 1. Apr 7, 2005 · What exactly do they ask about on the polygraph? I have heard everything from drugs, gambling, porn (child and regular, do they really ask about CP?!), booze, strip clubs, adultery, theft, road rage, animal abuse, stealing from your mother, and lots more. Oct 2, 2025 · Questions related to drug use are standard in police officer polygraph exams. I will be happy to answer any questions other than specifically where this happened, etc. The contents of this booklet are held "CONFIDENTIAL," except when essential to the conduct of proper official police business and national Polygraphy actually depends, in fundamental ways, on the operator lying to and deceiving you. The relevant questions in law enforcement pre-employment polygraph screening are typically about the use or sale of illegal drugs, major crimes, and the accuracy of the information in your application packet. Honts, Donald J. mizgh iqt efbcu nafwsum mptrdjf dzajgyk gzeqh tcs wwlj nmnsve gapj gylrq xywj sdwi yupzymd