Hiring Process

To ensure the best candidates are selected for the SAPD, all applicants are taken through a detailed hiring process that includes:

• Submit an application
• Written examination
• Physical fitness test
• Background investigation
• Assessment board interview
• Polygraph examination
• Psychological evaluation
• Medical / physical examination
• Appointment to cadet class by the Chief of Police

Complete an Application
Those interested in applying to the SAPD can download an application by clicking here. All applications must be printed out and returned to the SAPD for processing.

Written Examination
Once your application has been accepted, you will be scheduled to take a written exam. Applicants must pass with a minimum score of 70. For more information about the Written Examination, including a study guide, click here.

Physical Fitness Test

Currently, the Physical Fitness Test is administered immediately after applicants pass the written exam.  At the time you apply, you should be physically fit and able to pass the Physical Fitness Test.  The minimum requirements are:

Each applicant must also be able to jump or climb over a 5-foot wall and drag a 180-pound dummy 20 feet.

The Physical Fitness Test continues to be a significant obstacle for many applicants.  We encourage applicants to train in advance of the actual test and make sure that they can exceed the minimum requirements.  Applicants should also understand that the physical requirements of the police academy will be much more demanding.  The SAPD Academy trains police cadets on a variety of exercises, including push ups, sit ups, pull ups, running, kettle bell exercises, air squats, lunges, wrestling and boxing.  Police cadets are also expected to run an obstacle course numerous times during the academy. 

SAPD recruiters run free training sessions three times a week to help applicants prepare for the police academy.  Contact a recruiter at 210-207-5050 or by email to find out more information about our free training sessions. 

Background Investigation
A complete background investigation is conducted into the applicant’s general personal reputation, education, military history (if applicable), driving record, arrest record, drug usage, employment history, special qualifications and skills.

Applicants must be compliant with the suitability factors defined by the City of San Antonio Civil Service Commission. A complete listing of these factors can be downloaded by clicking here. These suitability factors cover the following topics:

• Personal history and character
• Employment history
• Military history
• Driving record
• Financial responsibility
• Criminal activity
• Drug use

Structured Oral Interview
A panel composed of three experienced San Antonio police officers assesses the applicant through a structured oral interview.  Applicants are evaluated with regard to decision making, judgement and reasoning, problem analysis, problem solving, interpersonal skills, public relations skill, community service orientation, oral communication, planning and organizing, composure, conflict resolution, team orientation, decisiveness and thoroughness. 

Polygraph Examination
Polygraph examinations are conducted by a licensed polygraph examiner selected by the SAPD. The sole purpose of this examination is to verify the applicant’s truthfulness.

Psychological Examination
A licensed psychologist or psychiatrist selected by the SAPD must certify applicants. The evaluation will determine if the applicant’s psychological and emotional health is appropriate for the duties and functions of a police officer.

Medical / Physical Examination
Applicants must be certified by a licensed physician selected by the City of San Antonio. Applicants must be declared physically sound and free from defect, which may adversely affect the performance of the duties of a police officer.

Chief of Police Review and Appointment
Upon successful completion of the application process, the Chief of Police reviews each candidate’s file. Once approved, candidates are then appointed to an academy class with the title of police cadet.