Police Department

Police Officer Testing: Dates & Logistics

When & Where: Testing is held every Monday of each month. It begins promptly at 8:15 AM at the Carlsbad Police Department (602 W. Mermod St, Carlsbad, NM).

Instructions for Applicants:

• Please submit an application online prior to showing up for testing.
• Arrive in workout attire and bring a water source.
• Required Documents: You must bring your state-issued Driver's License and Social Security Card.
• Study Tip: Applicants wishing to prepare can search online for "POST practice test" or sample exams.

Telecommunicator/Dispatcher Selection Process

Applicants must successfully complete three specific phases to be eligible for a position. Failure to complete any phase will result in disqualification.

Phase 1: Skills Testing
Testing is administered on-site at the Police Department, generally on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month.
Note: Once your online application is received, a manager will contact you to schedule your specific testing date.

Phase 2: Panel Interview
Upon passing the initial skills test, the applicant will be scheduled for an oral board interview. This panel consists of five representatives from our agency who will evaluate the candidate.

Phase 3: Background Investigation
Pending a successful interview, the applicant will be issued a Personal History Statement to fill out in its entirety. The Training and Recruiting Division will conduct a comprehensive background check and vet the applicant based on the information provided in this document.

Police Officer: Minimum Requirements

To be considered, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a United States citizen and at least 21 years of age.
• Hold a High School Diploma (or equivalent) and a valid Driver’s License.
• Criminal History: No felony convictions. Arrests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
• Recent Conduct: No convictions within the last 3 years for aggravated assault, theft, DWI, controlled substances, or crimes involving moral turpitude.
• Military Service: Must not have been discharged under dishonorable conditions.

Police Officer: Selection Steps

1. Application: Must be submitted online.
2. Written Exam: Applicants must score a 60% or better. (Study guides for the Police Officer Selection Test are available for purchase online).
3. Physical Fitness Test: Must meet New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy Entrance Standards:
   • Sit-ups: Minimum of 27 repetitions in one minute.
   • Push-ups: Minimum of 15 repetitions in one minute.
   • 1.5 Mile Run: 15:14 (minutes:seconds) or less.
   • 300 Meter Sprint: 71 seconds or less.
4. Personal History Statement: A detailed document regarding the applicant's background.
5. Oral Board Interview: A formal interview with agency representatives.
6. Background Investigation: A thorough vetting process.
7. Psychological Evaluation: Conducted by a licensed professional.
8. Medical Examination & Drug Screening.