How to Prepare for Your Pre-Employment Psychological Evaluation

What the evaluation is, and what it is not

The pre-employment psychological evaluation is a standard step in public safety hiring. It looks at whether you are psychologically suited to the demands of the job, such as handling stress, making sound decisions under pressure, working within rules and authority, and getting along with the public and coworkers.

It is not therapy, and it is not an attempt to trip you up. The evaluator is not looking for a perfect person. Everyone has a history. What matters is how you have handled it and how you function now.

Before evaluation day

• Complete your intake forms as soon as you get them. Late forms are the most common reason evaluations get pushed back.
• Upload the documents your agency asked for. Background packet, prior evaluations, or anything else they listed.
• Test your setup. Evaluations are done by secure video, so check your camera, microphone, and internet connection ahead of time.
• Find a private, quiet room. No one else should be in the room or able to hear you during the interview.
• Have a photo ID ready to confirm your identity.

The testing: answer honestly

You will complete standardized psychological tests. These are not pass or fail exams, and there is nothing to study. Read each question, answer how it actually applies to you, and move on. Do not overthink it.

The single biggest mistake candidates make is trying to look perfect. No one is expected to have a spotless history. What matters is honesty and how you have handled the challenges you have faced.

Answer every question and follow the instructions on screen. If something is unclear, ask before you begin.

The interview: be consistent and open

The interview covers your background, work history, relationships, how you handle stress, and anything from your paperwork or testing that needs a closer look. Answer openly and completely.

If you have been to counseling, been through a hard time, or made mistakes in the past, say so plainly. Getting help when you needed it is not automatically a problem. Hiding something that later comes out is a much bigger one. And if you do not remember a detail, it is fine to say that.

On the day itself

• Get a full night of sleep and eat beforehand.
• Avoid alcohol the night before.
• Plan for about 2 to 3 hours and do not schedule anything right after.
• Put your phone away and close other programs on your computer.
• Log in a few minutes early.

After the evaluation

The written report goes to the agency that referred you, usually within 5 to 10 business days. If you have questions about the result, ask your agency, since they are the ones who receive the report. If you are found not suitable, ask the agency about its appeal or reconsideration process and any deadlines.

About the author

Jonathan Arditti, PsyD, is a licensed psychologist in California and Texas who conducts pre-employment, second opinion, and fitness-for-duty evaluations for public safety agencies. He has worked alongside LAPD as a field clinician since 2015.