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Step 1:

Interest Card

Collects initial information required for the selection process and determines eligibility for the position in which you are applying.

Step 2:

City Entrance Exam

This exam measures minimum aptitude in levels such as recall and observation, situational judgment and reasoning, directional orientation and basic mathematics principles. It is a written test comprised of 100 multiple choice questions. The passing score for the test is 70. There is an online practice exam available - Online Practice Exam. In addition, there is also a printable study guide available.
Download Study Guide

Step 3:

Personal History Statement (PHS)

This statement helps determine that an applicant meets minimum character traits in truthfulness (honesty, integrity, promise keeping, loyalty), responsibility (accountability, excellence, self restraint), caring, citizenship, respect for others, and fairness. Additionally, employment, credit, criminal and residence history are just a few topics covered in your background investigation. An interview will be conducted and based on the information provided by the applicant in the PHS, a determination will be made if candidate is eligible to continue in the selection process.

Step 4:

Physical Abilities Test

Candidates will proceed through a standardized set of physical ability tests. Physical abilities components will consist of the number of sit-ups an applicant can do in one minute (minimum is 27), the number of non-modified pushups an applicant can do in one minute (minimum is 15), a 300 meter sprint (at/under 71 secs), and a mile and a half run (at/under 15:14). Applicants will be advised to perform at their optimum level as fitness scores are used in the selection process.

Step 5:

Nelson Denny Exam

This exam is composed of 118 multiple choice questions that measure minimum aptitude levels in vocabulary, reading and comprehension. There is a study packet available.
Download Study Guide Packet

Step 6:

Additional Documents Required

You are required to bring certain documents, including but not limited to official transcripts, a credit report, a photograph of yourself, copies of your driver's license and social security card, etc. Your background file will not be worked until all documentation is present.

Step 7:

Written Psychological Exam

Candidates are administered a battery of written psychological tests as determined by the City of Albuquerque Behavioral Sciences Division.

Step 8:

Background Investigation

All information gathered and submitted from the applicant will be verified. A thorough and complete investigation will be completed. The investigation is comprised of, but not limited to, criminal history, arrest history, employment history, military history, driving history, educational history, credit references, social history, and reference checks.

Step 9:

Polygraph

The polygraph is used to verify information provided by the candidate in all papers, documents and statements submitted as part of the selection process, and to verify any statements made during interviews and the background investigation.

Step 10:

Psychological Assessment

The psychological interview consists of the scoring and interpretation of the written psychological test and an interview with a psychologist. The New Mexico Department of Public Safety requires that candidates pass the psychological test by a licensed psychologist prior to certification.

Step 11:

Chief’s Selection Committee

This is an oral interview lead by the Executive Command Staff.

Step 12:

Executive Review

This is a review of all exam results and background check results by the Chief of Staff and Chief of Police.

Step 13:

City of Albuquerque Employment Application

This will be completed after the applicant successfully concludes the selection process.

Step 14:

Medical Exam and Drug Screen

Candidates will be sent to the City Health Center for a series of examinations comprised of, but not necessarily limited to vision, hearing, medical/physical and a drug test.

Fairness. Respect. Integrity. Pride.

Join the Albuquerque Police Department

Looking for an amazing career where you can make a true difference in your community?

Why Work for APD

Take Home Car

All police officers who successfully complete one year probation will be issued a patrol vehicle for their use during working hours. Officers must live within the boundaries established by the Chief of Police.

Great Benefits

Upon hire all employees will receive benefits to include health, vision, vacation and sick leave.

Pre-Hire Program

Specialized Units

Officers can investigate one of these career opportunities after completing at least
two years as a police officer in patrol:

14 Step Selection Process

To be considered as a Police Cadet, Lateral Officer or Police Service Aide with the Albuquerque Police Department, applicants must successfully complete the selection process.