Selection Process

All applicants must fill out an application online prior to taking the written Entrance Exam. Applicants should call to schedule the written Entrance Exam; before coming to the testing facility at the appropriate date and time. Applications are valid for one year from the date of submission. Applicants should bring a printed copy of their completed on-line application to the testing location.

Entrance Exam

The entrance exam is offered on the scheduled dates posted on the Newport News Police Department's website. Applicants are expected to arrive at Police Headquarters' testing facilities no later than time designated to them at time of scheduling. A pictured identification is required in order to complete the exam.

The written exam consists of the following components:
  • Memorization
  • Reading comprehension
  • Map Analysis

Physical Agility Test

View Physical Agility Test Video

The physical agility test is offered on the scheduled dates posted on our website. Applicants are expected to arrive at John B. Todd Stadium, located at 12465 Warwick Boulevard, 15 minutes prior to the time and date given. Applicants must sign up for a physical agility test during the day of the written exam (out-of-state applicants contact the Recruiting Division at 757-928-4150 for information regarding testing procedures in place for out of state applicants.)

Note: Persons requiring special accommodations should contact the Recruiting Division at least 10 working days prior to testing.

The Physical Agility Test consists of the following components:
  • Three hundred meter run (90 seconds)
  • Running broad jump (6 feet)
  • 5 ft. wall scale (15 seconds)
  • 130 lb. weight drag (30 feet in 15 seconds)
  • Grip strength - trigger pull (38 caliber revolver handgun, double action mode, 50 rounds dry fire,) dominant and weak hand

Structured Oral Process

Applicants will be seated in front of a computer monitor to respond to three video scenarios. The video scenarios are designed to analyze behaviors important to police services.  Applicants who successfully pass the Structured Oral Process will be assigned to a background investigator.

Background Investigation

A comprehensive background investigation will be conducted on each applicant. The investigation will include, but is not limited to, employment verification, personal references, financial responsibility (credit report,) neighbor contacts, and a review of any criminal record.

Panel Review Board


A team of trained panelists review applicants' files.


Polygraph Examination

As only applicants of excellent character are considered, a polygraph examination will be administered to each applicant to ensure compatibility.

Chief of Police Interview

Applicants who successfully complete the background investigation will meet with the Chief of Police for an interview.

Conditional Job Offer

When a vacancy exists, the Chief of Police will consider those applicants who have successfully completed the above steps in the process. Candidates who are extended job offers must successfully complete a medical and psychological evaluation, provided at the expense of the city as a condition of employment.

Medical

Applicants selected for employment must successfully pass a stringent medical evaluation, given at the city's expense, to determine if applicants are medically capable of performing the essential functions of the job. Continued employment is conditioned upon successful completion of the medical evaluation.

Psychological

Applicants selected for employment are required to complete a series of psychological tests to determine if the applicants are psychologically capable of performing the essential functions of the job. Continued employment is conditioned upon successful completion of the evaluation.