DPSST Credential Programs 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which DPSST credential level is typically required before an officer can be assigned as a field training officer (FTO)?
- Basic
- Intermediate (Correct answer)
- Advanced
- Supervisory
Correct answer: Intermediate
DPSST requires officers to hold at least an Intermediate certification before serving as a Field Training Officer.
Question 2: Under Oregon law, what happens to a DPSST certification if an officer is dishonorably discharged from their employing agency?
- It is automatically suspended pending review (Correct answer)
- It remains valid until the officer is convicted of a crime
- It transfers to any other Oregon agency without restriction
- It is immediately upgraded to preserve the officer's rights
Correct answer: It is automatically suspended pending review
A dishonorable discharge triggers an automatic suspension of the officer's DPSST certification pending a formal review.
Question 3: The DPSST Telecommunications certification program is designed for which personnel?
- Patrol officers who use radios in the field
- Dispatchers and 9-1-1 call-takers (Correct answer)
- IT staff managing public safety networks
- Investigators using electronic surveillance
Correct answer: Dispatchers and 9-1-1 call-takers
DPSST's Telecommunications program certifies dispatchers and 9-1-1 call-takers who provide critical communication support.
Question 4: How does DPSST's credit unit system reward officers who obtain college education?
- College credits are automatically converted to training hours only for criminal justice degrees
- Accredited college credit hours can be applied toward meeting certification point requirements (Correct answer)
- A bachelor's degree automatically grants Advanced certification without other requirements
- College education waives the physical fitness testing requirement
Correct answer: Accredited college credit hours can be applied toward meeting certification point requirements
DPSST allows accredited college credit hours to be applied as credit units toward the point totals needed for higher certification levels.
Question 5: What is the purpose of the DPSST 'professional standards' unit in relation to the credential system?
- It sets the training curriculum for police academies
- It investigates complaints and recommends certification revocations (Correct answer)
- It manages the payroll for certified officers statewide
- It exclusively handles background checks for new applicants
Correct answer: It investigates complaints and recommends certification revocations
DPSST's Professional Standards unit investigates officer misconduct complaints and can recommend revocation or denial of certifications.
Question 6: Which of the following is a prerequisite for a law enforcement officer to qualify for DPSST Supervisory certification?
- Completion of a master's degree in public administration
- Holding current Advanced certification (Correct answer)
- At least 15 years of service regardless of training
- Appointment as a sergeant or higher rank by their agency
Correct answer: Holding current Advanced certification
Advanced certification is a prerequisite for Supervisory certification, ensuring a progressive credentialing path.
Question 7: What document must an employing agency submit to DPSST to initiate the certification process for a newly hired officer?
- A civil service examination score report
- A Notice of Employment form (Correct answer)
- A letter of recommendation from the chief of police
- A federal background clearance form
Correct answer: A Notice of Employment form
The employing agency must submit a Notice of Employment to DPSST to formally begin the certification process for a new hire.
DPSST Credential Programs 2
Which DPSST credential level is typically required before an officer can be assigned as a field training officer (FTO)?