Highway Patrol
Employment - Hiring Process
Candidates who apply to test for DPS Officer positions will be required to undergo the following:
- Physical Assessment Test (PAT) - Candidate will be required to pass each event. Failure to pass each event at the level indicated in the "Physical Requirements" will eliminate the candidate from further consideration of employment for this recruitment period.
- Suitability Assessment - The suitability assessment test consists of several instruments to assess cognitive and interpersonal skills. This test is a video-based, multiple choice test that portrays situations that are commonly faced in law enforcement. Candidates are required to analyze situations and make quick judgments. Other areas evaluated are: reading, observation skills, factual report and basic writing competency. Those candidates passing this test will move to the personal history statement. (background investigation)
- Background Investigation - An in-depth background investigation will be conducted on candidates being considered for employment. Candidates may not have been convicted of a felony or any offense involving dishonesty, unlawful sexual conduct, physical violence or the unlawful use, sale, or possession for sale of a controlled substance.
If, during the background investigation, information regarding possible criminal conduct or activity is uncovered, this information will be given to the appropriate criminal justice authorities. If, during the background investigation, evidence of illegal drug usage is discovered, Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) will be notified and you may not be eligible for certification as a peace officer.
- Additional Testing - Candidates will be required to pass all the following:
- Oral Board
- Polygraph examination
- Pre-employment drug test
- Psychological Evaluation
- Comprehensive medical examination including hearing and vision.