Failing any step will result in elimination from the process. Applicants are ranked by scores achieved from each step. Those applicants scoring high enough proceed to the next step. All applicants meeting the minimum qualifications are invited to take the written examination. The POST is a timed aptitude test divided into four sections.
Applicants passing the written exam continue to the physical assessment portion of the process.
Time and repetitions vary depending on the age and sex of the applicant. The physical assessment takes place the same day as the written test. All applicants passing the physical assessment will be scheduled for an oral board interview. Oral boards are scheduled several weeks after the physical assessment has been completed. Each applicant advancing to the Oral Board phase will be interviewed and evaluated separately by three peace officers from the Department.