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DPS-After You Apply

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1. What happens if I can't get to a scheduled exam? Will you reschedule me, so I can take the test?

Normally, exams are not rescheduled. Only under extreme extenuating circumstances will an applicant be permitted to reschedule an exam. The circumstances which cause an applicant to miss the exam are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

2. What types of tests do you administer?

There are three basic types of civil service tests:
1. Written- Multiple choice tests in which you choose the best answer from several choices and mark your choice on an answer sheet.

2. Performance - Measures ability to perform a particular task in a specified time period. Examples are typing, stenography, or physical agility.

3. Rating of Experience and Training- Candidates are assigned a score based on the information you report on your application and any required application supplement.

Any of these types of tests can be used alone, or a combination of these may be utilized.

3. Is there one generic examination which covers all job titles?

No, each examination has as its objective to measure knowledges, skills and abilities needed to successfully perform the duties of that particular class of work.

4. Can I call for my test results?

Test results are not given out over the phone. You will receive a notice of your examination results in the mail.

5. What happens if I take a civil service written exam and fail it?

If you fail a required exam, your application will be rejected. You may reapply any time we are recruiting for that same job and take the test again. There is no limit to the number of times you may take a civil service exam, as long as you submit a timely application and continue to meet the minimum qualification requirements (training, experience, and other licenses and/or certifications) for that particular class of work.

6. If I am selected, do I go through a probationary period?

Civil service positions have a six-month probationary period (except for police officers and fire fighters, who are given a one-year probationary period.) This is considered part of the testing process. Upon successful completion of the probationary period, you become a full-fledged member of the civil service.