NYPD Police Officer Exam — Questions and Answers

Question 1: A sergeant issues four directives to a patrol unit: (A) submit end-of-shift report, (B) respond to a shots-fired call, (C) assist a stranded motorist, (D) pick up mail from the precinct. What is the correct order of action?

A, B, D, C
D, B, C, A
B, A, C, D
B, C, A, D (Correct answer)

Correct answer: B, C, A, D

Shots fired is a life-threatening emergency, the stranded motorist needs non-emergency assistance, the report closes the shift, and mail pickup is purely administrative.

Question 2: Which sequence correctly describes the chain of custody for evidence? (1) Document in evidence log, (2) Collect evidence, (3) Store in secure facility, (4) Tag and label evidence

2, 1, 4, 3
4, 2, 1, 3
2, 4, 1, 3 (Correct answer)
1, 2, 3, 4

Correct answer: 2, 4, 1, 3

Evidence is collected, then tagged for identification, logged to create a legal record, and finally stored securely.

Question 3: Officer Reyes responds to a noise complaint at an apartment. The tenant answers the door appearing nervous and speaks in a low voice, saying everything is fine. Officer Reyes hears no noise but notices a second person moving in the background who avoids eye contact. What potential problem should Officer Reyes recognize?

The second person is an unauthorized tenant
The tenant is concealing illegal pets
The tenant is embarrassed about the noise complaint
There may be a domestic violence or hostage situation inside (Correct answer)

Correct answer: There may be a domestic violence or hostage situation inside

Nervous demeanor, hushed voice, and a person avoiding eye contact in the background are classic indicators of a possible domestic violence or coercive situation.

Question 4: Based on the passage below, pick the statement that is the most accurate: Regarding a vandalism incident, Henry, the proprietor of Henry's Floral, and I met on Tuesday, November 4. Although there were two damaged front windows, no signs of theft were present. During the shop's overnight closure, the incident took place.

Money was stolen from Mr. Henry’s shop but no goods were missing.
The damage consisted of two broken windows. (Correct answer)
Henry is the primary suspect in the vandalism.
Henry was in the shop when the incident occurred.

Correct answer: The damage consisted of two broken windows.

The passage explicitly states, 'Although there were two damaged front windows, no signs of theft were present.' This directly confirms that the damage consisted of two broken windows. The other statements are either contradicted by the passage (no theft, Henry was not in the shop) or are speculative (Henry as a suspect).

Question 5: A crowd of 2,400 people requires 1 officer for every 80 people. How many officers are needed?

24
32
28
30 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 30

2,400 ÷ 80 = 30 officers required.

Question 6: You are on patrol and witness a fellow officer accepting a free meal from a restaurant owner who says it is a 'thank you for keeping the neighborhood safe.' What should you do?

Ignore it because no money exchanged hands
Accept the meal since it is a small token of appreciation
Report the incident to your supervisor as a potential gratuity violation (Correct answer)
Advise the officer privately but take no further action

Correct answer: Report the incident to your supervisor as a potential gratuity violation

Accepting gratuities, even small ones like meals, violates NYPD rules and must be reported to a supervisor.

Question 7: An officer observes that a store's alarm has triggered six times in the past two months, always on Friday nights. Today is Friday night and the alarm is silent. Using inductive reasoning, what is the best conclusion?

The alarm will definitely not trigger tonight
The pattern is too small to draw any conclusion
The alarm may still trigger tonight — the pattern increases probability but does not guarantee it (Correct answer)
The absence of an alarm means the store is secure

Correct answer: The alarm may still trigger tonight — the pattern increases probability but does not guarantee it

Inductive patterns increase probability estimates but never guarantee specific outcomes; the alarm may still trigger despite currently being silent.

Question 8: An officer works 8 hours per day for 5 days. How many total hours does the officer work?

35
40 (Correct answer)
50
45

Correct answer: 40

8 hours × 5 days = 40 total hours worked.

Question 9: Choose the correctly punctuated sentence.

The officers searched the apartment; however, they found no contraband. (Correct answer)
The officers searched the apartment however they found no contraband.
The officers searched the apartment, however they found no contraband.
The officers searched the apartment however, they found no contraband.

Correct answer: The officers searched the apartment; however, they found no contraband.

A semicolon before 'however' and a comma after it correctly joins two independent clauses with a conjunctive adverb.

Question 10: Passage: 'Officer Delgado observed a vehicle traveling at high speed through a red light at the intersection of Atlantic and Pacific Avenues. He activated his lights and siren and pursued the vehicle. The vehicle stopped after three blocks. The driver, later identified as Thomas Garrett, was found to have a suspended license. The vehicle was subsequently impounded.' What traffic violation did Garrett commit initially? A) Speeding only B) Running a red light only C) Both speeding and running a red light D) Driving with a suspended license

Driving with a suspended license
Speeding only
Both speeding and running a red light (Correct answer)
Running a red light only

Correct answer: Both speeding and running a red light

The passage states the vehicle was 'traveling at high speed through a red light,' indicating both speeding and running a red light.

Question 11: An officer observes a vehicle with a broken taillight and initiates a traffic stop. The driver provides a license, registration, and insurance card. Which action should the officer take FIRST?

Ask the driver to step out of the vehicle
Call for backup before approaching
Verify the documents through dispatch (Correct answer)
Issue a summons immediately

Correct answer: Verify the documents through dispatch

Officers must verify documents through dispatch to check for warrants or flags before taking further action.

Question 12: An officer is first to arrive at a homicide scene. The FIRST priority should be to:

Ensure the scene is safe, render aid if needed, and preserve the scene (Correct answer)
Begin interviewing witnesses immediately
Notify the media
Search for evidence before it is disturbed

Correct answer: Ensure the scene is safe, render aid if needed, and preserve the scene

At any crime scene, officer and public safety comes first, followed by preserving scene integrity for the investigation.

Question 13: During a large community parade, an Auxiliary officer's primary role is to:

Investigate potential criminal activity in the crowd
Replace regular officers assigned to emergency calls
Assist with crowd management and pedestrian traffic flow (Correct answer)
Conduct identity checks on parade participants

Correct answer: Assist with crowd management and pedestrian traffic flow

At community events, Auxiliary officers primarily assist with crowd management and maintaining pedestrian traffic flow.

Question 14: A witness describes a suspect fleeing the scene. Place the following details in the order an officer should record them: (1) direction of flight, (2) physical description, (3) clothing description, (4) any weapons observed

4, 2, 3, 1
3, 4, 1, 2
2, 3, 4, 1 (Correct answer)
1, 2, 3, 4

Correct answer: 2, 3, 4, 1

Physical description first identifies the person, clothing aids visual recognition, weapons indicate danger level, and direction of flight guides pursuit.

Question 15: Which of the following is an example of a Class A misdemeanor in New York?

Jaywalking
Murder in the second degree
Littering
Petit larceny (theft of property valued under $1,000) (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Petit larceny (theft of property valued under $1,000)

Petit larceny (Penal Law §155.25) is a Class A misdemeanor, the most serious misdemeanor category in New York.

Question 16: Choose the sentence with correct subject-verb agreement.

Neither the officers nor the sergeant were aware of the complaint.
Neither the officers nor the sergeant have been aware of the complaint.
Neither the officers nor the sergeant was aware of the complaint. (Correct answer)
Neither the officers nor the sergeant are aware of the complaint.

Correct answer: Neither the officers nor the sergeant was aware of the complaint.

With 'neither...nor,' the verb agrees with the subject closest to it; 'sergeant' is singular, so 'was' is correct.

Question 17: Passage: 'According to department policy, an officer who observes a fellow officer acting in an unlawful manner is obligated to intervene if it is safe to do so, and must report the conduct to a supervisor regardless of whether intervention was possible.' What must an officer ALWAYS do after observing unlawful conduct by a colleague? A) File a formal complaint with Internal Affairs B) Report the conduct to a supervisor C) Intervene physically D) Document it only if intervention was not possible

Document it only if intervention was not possible
Report the conduct to a supervisor (Correct answer)
Intervene physically
File a formal complaint with Internal Affairs

Correct answer: Report the conduct to a supervisor

The policy states the officer must report to a supervisor 'regardless of whether intervention was possible.'

Question 18: Under the Miranda ruling, when must an officer advise a suspect of their rights?

Before conducting a custodial interrogation (Correct answer)
Immediately upon placing handcuffs on a suspect
Before questioning any person on the street
Only when a suspect specifically asks for a lawyer

Correct answer: Before conducting a custodial interrogation

Miranda warnings are required before custodial interrogation — when the suspect is both in custody and subject to interrogation.

Question 19: To write an incident report, Officer Chen must complete steps in the correct sequence. Which order is most logical? (1) Gather witness statements, (2) Secure the scene, (3) Notify supervisor, (4) Complete written report

3, 1, 2, 4
2, 3, 1, 4
1, 2, 3, 4
2, 1, 3, 4 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 2, 1, 3, 4

Scene security comes first to preserve evidence, then witness statements are gathered, supervisor is notified, and the report is completed last.

Question 20: Which rank is the HIGHEST within the Auxiliary Police structure?

Auxiliary Inspector
Auxiliary Captain (Correct answer)
Auxiliary Lieutenant
Auxiliary Deputy Inspector

Correct answer: Auxiliary Captain

The highest rank within the Auxiliary Police is Auxiliary Captain, which commands an auxiliary unit.

Question 21: A store owner calls 911 to report a known shoplifter in the store. When you arrive, the shoplifter has already left. What should you do?

Leave immediately since no crime is currently in progress
Arrest the first person matching the description you see outside
Tell the owner to handle it themselves next time
Take a report, obtain a description, and canvas the area (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Take a report, obtain a description, and canvas the area

Taking a proper report and canvassing the area fulfills your duty to investigate reported crimes and may lead to apprehension.

Question 22: Sergeant Lee reviews overtime records and notices that one precinct sector has significantly higher crime stats and overtime costs than neighboring sectors of equal size and population. What underlying problem should Sergeant Lee investigate?

The crime statistics are being recorded incorrectly
There may be a resource allocation imbalance, chronic hot spots, or unreported systemic issues in that sector (Correct answer)
Residents in that sector are filing more complaints than necessary
Officers in that sector are generating unnecessary overtime

Correct answer: There may be a resource allocation imbalance, chronic hot spots, or unreported systemic issues in that sector

Disproportionately high crime and overtime in a comparable sector signals underlying systemic issues such as hot spots, staffing gaps, or resource misallocation.

Question 23: All detectives in Unit 5 carry a shield number above 5000. Detective Ruiz carries shield number 4872. What can be logically concluded?

Detective Ruiz recently transferred to Unit 5
Detective Ruiz is not in Unit 5 (Correct answer)
Shield numbers above 5000 are for Unit 5 only
Detective Ruiz is in Unit 5 but has a special exception

Correct answer: Detective Ruiz is not in Unit 5

Since all Unit 5 detectives have shield numbers above 5000 and Ruiz's number is 4872, Ruiz cannot be in Unit 5.

Question 24: Once more, you're at the station and seated at your desk. At the opposite end of the station, an additional officer is seated at his own desk. You witness a man entering the station while trembling. "Sir, may I assist you?" you inquire. The man walks down to the desk of the other officer while ignoring you. He takes his gun, removes it, and throws it to the ground before holding the officer hostage. You witness every step of this. What do you do next, out of instinct?

Grip onto your firearm, and shoot the man with the weapon.
Pull the fire alarm immediately, alerting other authorities.
Run after him, and try to get the gun away from his grasp, while handcuffing him.
Calmly ease the man down, and ask politely what he needs. Try and do as he says, and he may let the officer go. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Calmly ease the man down, and ask politely what he needs. Try and do as he says, and he may let the officer go.

In a hostage situation, the primary goal is to de-escalate the situation, ensure the safety of the hostage (the other officer), and prevent further harm. Confronting an armed and agitated individual directly with force can escalate the situation, putting the hostage and other officers at greater risk. Calmly attempting to communicate, understand the suspect's demands, and comply where possible without compromising safety is the best initial strategy to gain control and work towards a peaceful resolution.

Question 25: A patrol car is at the intersection of Oak St and Elm Ave. The officer drives 4 blocks north, then 2 blocks east. What is the minimum number of blocks the officer must drive to return to the starting point by the fastest grid route?

2 blocks
4 blocks
6 blocks (Correct answer)
8 blocks

Correct answer: 6 blocks

To return, the officer drives 4 blocks south and 2 blocks west (or any combination), totaling 6 blocks on the grid.

Question 26: A witness states that the robber was tall, had a beard, and wore a green jacket. Officers detain four suspects. Suspect A is tall with a beard but wears a blue jacket. Suspect B is tall, bearded, and wears a green jacket. Suspect C is short with a beard in a green jacket. Suspect D is tall, clean-shaven, in a green jacket. Which suspect best matches the description?

Suspect B (Correct answer)
Suspect A
Suspect C
Suspect D

Correct answer: Suspect B

Suspect B matches all three descriptors — tall, bearded, and wearing a green jacket — making him the closest match to the witness description.

Question 27: A witness says a collision occurred 'two blocks south and three blocks east' of the police station at Main St and Center Ave. Which intersection had the collision?

Two blocks north of Main St on Center Ave
Two blocks north of Main St, three blocks west of Center Ave
Three blocks south of Main St, two blocks east of Center Ave
Two blocks south of Main St, three blocks east of Center Ave (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Two blocks south of Main St, three blocks east of Center Ave

Moving two blocks south of Main St and three blocks east of Center Ave gives the described intersection.

Question 28: A crime scene photo shows a victim's wallet on the floor 3 feet from the door, a cell phone near the window, and a set of keys on the kitchen counter. If an officer is asked where the wallet was found, the correct answer is:

3 feet from the door (Correct answer)
Under the table
Near the window
On the kitchen counter

Correct answer: 3 feet from the door

The scene description specifically placed the wallet 3 feet from the door, distinguishing it from the phone and keys at other locations.

Question 29: Which of the following best describes the Auxiliary Police Officer's authority to search a person?

No independent search authority; searches are conducted only when assisting a regular officer (Correct answer)
Authority to search if the person appears suspicious
Full search authority identical to regular NYPD officers
Authority to conduct pat-down frisks for weapons in any situation

Correct answer: No independent search authority; searches are conducted only when assisting a regular officer

Auxiliary officers do not have independent search authority and should only assist regular officers who are conducting authorized searches.

Question 30: You respond to a report of a man sleeping on a park bench. He is not intoxicated and has committed no crime. What is the appropriate action?

Ignore the call since no crime has been committed
Arrest him for vagrancy
Force him to leave the park immediately
Check on his welfare, offer available social services information, and move on if he refuses assistance (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Check on his welfare, offer available social services information, and move on if he refuses assistance

When no crime has occurred, officers should provide welfare assistance and social service information while respecting individual rights.

Question 31: The 'chain of custody' in evidence handling refers to:

The process of notifying next of kin
The order in which officers arrive at a scene
The ranking order of supervisors at a crime scene
The documented sequence of possession, control, and transfer of evidence (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The documented sequence of possession, control, and transfer of evidence

Chain of custody ensures evidence integrity by documenting every person who handled evidence from collection through court presentation.

Question 32: What does the 'use of force continuum' guide officers to do?

Rely solely on verbal commands before initiating any physical arrest
Use force proportional to the level of threat or resistance presented (Correct answer)
Avoid using any force unless directly authorized by a supervisor
Apply maximum force in any situation involving a resisting suspect

Correct answer: Use force proportional to the level of threat or resistance presented

The use of force continuum requires officers to match their level of force to the level of resistance or threat they face.

Question 33: A supervisor praises your performance and suggests you skip completing a required end-of-shift report 'just this once.' What do you do?

Skip the report since the supervisor approved it
Report the supervisor for attempting to violate procedure
Complete a shortened version of the report as a compromise
Complete the report as required regardless of the supervisor's suggestion (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Complete the report as required regardless of the supervisor's suggestion

Required reports must be completed regardless of supervisory suggestions to skip them; documentation is a legal obligation.

Question 34: Officer Martinez responds to a domestic disturbance. The husband says his wife fell down the stairs. The wife agrees with this explanation but has bruising in various stages of healing on her arms and torso. What problem should Officer Martinez identify?

There is likely an ongoing pattern of domestic abuse that the wife is concealing (Correct answer)
The wife may have a medical condition causing easy bruising
The staircase is a safety hazard that should be reported to building management
The husband's account is plausible and no further action is needed

Correct answer: There is likely an ongoing pattern of domestic abuse that the wife is concealing

Multiple bruises in different stages of healing indicate repeated trauma over time, strongly suggesting a pattern of domestic abuse beyond a single fall.

Question 35: Officer Chen is facing south. She turns 90 degrees to her right. In which direction is she now facing?

South
East
North
West (Correct answer)

Correct answer: West

A 90-degree clockwise (right) turn from south results in facing west.

Question 36: A sergeant has a supply budget of $1,200. After spending $340 and then $480, how much remains?

$280
$260
$420
$380 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: $380

$1,200 − $340 − $480 = $380 remaining.

Question 37: To obtain a search warrant, an officer must complete steps in order. Which sequence is correct? (1) Present affidavit to judge, (2) Gather probable cause evidence, (3) Execute the search, (4) Draft the affidavit

1, 2, 3, 4
4, 2, 1, 3
2, 4, 1, 3 (Correct answer)
2, 1, 4, 3

Correct answer: 2, 4, 1, 3

Evidence establishes probable cause, the affidavit is drafted, presented to a judge for approval, then the search is executed.

Question 38: A detective is briefed that a robbery occurred at 14:45 hours, police arrived at 15:10 hours, and the suspect was apprehended at 15:38 hours. How many minutes passed between the robbery and police arrival?

20 minutes
28 minutes
35 minutes
25 minutes (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 25 minutes

From 14:45 to 15:10 is exactly 25 minutes.

Question 39: During a traffic stop for speeding, an officer notes that the driver seems unusually nervous, is sweating despite the cool weather, and avoids eye contact. The passenger in the front seat is sitting rigidly still, staring straight ahead, and does not respond when the officer greets them. A problem-sensitive officer should recognize that these combined behaviors:

Confirm the driver was aware they were speeding and is worried about the ticket.
Are a typical reaction for people who are pulled over and indicate no further problem.
Suggest the passenger is being rude and should be ordered to answer the officer.
Are anomalies that may point to a more serious underlying issue, such as the presence of contraband, a warrant, or a hostage situation. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Are anomalies that may point to a more serious underlying issue, such as the presence of contraband, a warrant, or a hostage situation.

The core of problem sensitivity is identifying when a situation is not 'normal.' The driver's extreme nervousness combined with the passenger's unnatural stillness is a significant deviation from a routine traffic stop. This should signal to the officer that there might be a more serious, hidden problem that requires heightened awareness and safety precautions.

Question 40: You stop a driver for a minor traffic violation and notice open containers of alcohol in the back seat but no other signs of impairment. What do you do?

Arrest the driver immediately for DUI without further testing
Issue a ticket only for the traffic violation and let the driver go
Issue a summons for the open container violation in addition to the traffic ticket (Correct answer)
Confiscate the alcohol and issue only a verbal warning

Correct answer: Issue a summons for the open container violation in addition to the traffic ticket

Open containers in a vehicle are a separate offense that must be addressed with the appropriate summons alongside the traffic violation.

Question 41: During a training exercise, officers are shown a sketch of a robbery suspect for 60 seconds, then asked to identify the suspect in a lineup. The sketch shows a man with a wide flat nose, deep-set eyes, and a cleft chin. Which lineup member matches?

Member 3: narrow nose, deep-set eyes, and a cleft chin
Member 1: wide flat nose, close-set eyes, and a dimpled chin
Member 4: wide flat nose, deep-set eyes, and a cleft chin (Correct answer)
Member 2: prominent nose, wide-set eyes, round chin

Correct answer: Member 4: wide flat nose, deep-set eyes, and a cleft chin

Member 4 is the only individual matching all three features: wide flat nose, deep-set eyes, and a cleft chin.

Question 42: Officer Diaz is reviewing arrest records for a neighborhood and finds that most drug arrests occur on Friday evenings near a particular transit stop. A pattern analysis also shows that arrests drop sharply whenever there is a community event in the area. What problem insight should Officer Diaz draw from this data?

Community events are ineffective at reducing crime long-term
Drug dealers move operations to community events when the transit stop is crowded
Community presence and activity act as a natural deterrent to drug activity at that location (Correct answer)
The transit stop should be closed on Friday evenings

Correct answer: Community presence and activity act as a natural deterrent to drug activity at that location

The inverse relationship between community events and drug activity demonstrates that increased legitimate community presence serves as a natural crime deterrent.

Question 43: A bystander attempts to record your use-of-force interaction on a cell phone from a safe distance. What is the correct response?

Order the bystander to stop filming and confiscate the phone
Allow the recording as long as the bystander is not interfering with the scene (Correct answer)
Arrest the bystander for obstruction
Block the bystander's view to preserve officer privacy

Correct answer: Allow the recording as long as the bystander is not interfering with the scene

Citizens have a First Amendment right to record police activity in public as long as they do not interfere with operations.

Question 44: During a training exercise, recruits are told: 'Whenever a suspect runs, it is reasonable to suspect they may be involved in criminal activity.' A man starts running on the street when it begins to rain. What should a well-reasoning officer conclude?

The man is definitely a criminal and should be stopped
The man should be ignored because he is only running from rain
All running individuals should be detained for questioning
Running alone is not sufficient proof of criminal involvement; context matters (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Running alone is not sufficient proof of criminal involvement; context matters

Deductive and inductive reasoning require considering context; running because of rain is a clear alternative explanation that reduces suspicion.

Question 45: A crime scene is 45 feet long and 20 feet wide. What is the area in square feet?

1,000
65
130
900 (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 900

Area = length × width = 45 × 20 = 900 square feet.

Question 46: If an officer arrests 3 suspects per shift over 8 shifts, how many total arrests are made?

21
18
24 (Correct answer)
27

Correct answer: 24

3 arrests × 8 shifts = 24 total arrests.

Question 47: Which of the following claims about the auxiliary police baton is true?

Must carry the baton when traveling to and from the command in uniform
May carry a plastic version of the baton to avoid splinters
Must carry the baton when traveling to and from the command in plainclothes
Always carry the auxiliary police baton when assigned to rmp duty (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Always carry the auxiliary police baton when assigned to rmp duty

Auxiliary police batons are considered essential equipment for officers assigned to active patrol duties, such as Radio Motor Patrol (RMP). Carrying the baton during RMP duty is a standard requirement to ensure officer safety and provide necessary tools for law enforcement functions. This aligns with standard police auxiliary regulations for active duty.

Question 48: An officer is reviewing five case reports filed on different dates. Which sequence correctly orders them from most recent to oldest? Report A: 07/15, Report B: 07/22, Report C: 07/08, Report D: 07/29, Report E: 07/01.

A, B, C, D, E
D, B, A, C, E (Correct answer)
D, A, B, C, E
E, C, A, B, D

Correct answer: D, B, A, C, E

From most recent to oldest: 07/29 (D), 07/22 (B), 07/15 (A), 07/08 (C), 07/01 (E).

Question 49: Passage: 'The complainant, Mr. Okafor, stated he was walking home at approximately 10:45 PM when an unknown male approached him from behind, struck him on the head with an object, and took his wallet containing $75, two credit cards, and his driver's license. Mr. Okafor was transported to Bellevue Hospital.' What was NOT taken from Mr. Okafor? A) His wallet B) Two credit cards C) His driver's license D) His cell phone

Two credit cards
His wallet
His driver's license
His cell phone (Correct answer)

Correct answer: His cell phone

The passage lists the wallet, credit cards, and driver's license as stolen; a cell phone is not mentioned.

Question 50: A dispatcher receives the following calls in order: (1) armed robbery in progress, (2) noise complaint, (3) traffic accident with injuries, (4) domestic dispute. Which order should units be dispatched?

1, 2, 3, 4
3, 1, 4, 2
1, 3, 4, 2 (Correct answer)
2, 4, 1, 3

Correct answer: 1, 3, 4, 2

Armed robbery (immediate danger) and injury accident take priority over domestic dispute and noise complaint.

Question 51: An officer is writing a report and needs to list the items recovered from a suspect's vehicle. Which sentence uses punctuation correctly?

The following items, were recovered; a wallet, a cellphone, and a set of keys.
The following items were recovered: a wallet, a cellphone, and a set of keys. (Correct answer)
The following items were recovered: a wallet a cellphone and a set of keys.
The following items were recovered a wallet, a cellphone, and a set of keys.

Correct answer: The following items were recovered: a wallet, a cellphone, and a set of keys.

A colon is used to introduce a list after an independent clause. Commas are then used to separate the individual items within the list. The other options use incorrect punctuation (a comma instead of a colon, missing commas between list items, or incorrect use of a semicolon).

Question 52: When an officer stops a pedestrian for a Terry stop, the officer may lawfully:

Pat down the outer clothing if there is reasonable belief the person is armed (Correct answer)
Detain the person for up to 72 hours without charges
Search the person's pockets and bags without consent
Arrest the person based solely on the stop

Correct answer: Pat down the outer clothing if there is reasonable belief the person is armed

A Terry frisk (pat-down of outer clothing) is permitted only when the officer reasonably believes the person may be armed and dangerous.

Question 53: Which order correctly describes how to handle a found firearm? (1) Secure the weapon safely, (2) Check if it is loaded, (3) Log it as evidence, (4) Notify supervisor

1, 2, 4, 3 (Correct answer)
2, 1, 3, 4
4, 1, 2, 3
1, 4, 2, 3

Correct answer: 1, 2, 4, 3

The weapon is secured first for safety, then checked for ammunition, the supervisor is notified, and it is logged as evidence.

Question 54: When directing traffic at a busy intersection, where should an officer stand to be most effective?

At the edge of the crosswalk on one side
In the center of the intersection (Correct answer)
Behind the stop line on the busiest approach
On the sidewalk near the corner for personal safety

Correct answer: In the center of the intersection

An officer directs traffic from the center of the intersection so they are clearly visible to drivers approaching from all four directions.

Question 55: Officers are shown a map with four marked locations: evidence site (A), suspect's home (B), victim's workplace (C), and point of contact (D). Which location is marked C?

Victim's workplace (Correct answer)
Evidence site
Point of contact
Suspect's home

Correct answer: Victim's workplace

Location C on the map marks the victim's workplace.

Question 56: Read the following text and answer the question: 'A lawful arrest requires probable cause. Probable cause is defined as a reasonable belief, based on objective facts and circumstances, that a crime has been committed and that the person to be arrested committed it. This standard is more than a mere suspicion but does not require the same level of proof as a conviction, which is 'beyond a reasonable doubt.' An officer might establish probable cause through direct observation, witness statements, or physical evidence.' The passage implies that the level of certainty required for probable cause is:

higher than that required for a criminal conviction.
lower than what is needed for a criminal conviction, but more than a simple hunch. (Correct answer)
identical to the evidence needed to issue a traffic ticket.
based solely on an officer's intuition or gut feeling.

Correct answer: lower than what is needed for a criminal conviction, but more than a simple hunch.

The text explicitly states that probable cause is 'more than a mere suspicion' but 'does not require the same level of proof as a conviction.' This indicates it is a mid-level standard of proof, lower than that for a conviction but higher than a simple suspicion or hunch.

Question 57: Under U.S. law, what constitutes 'probable cause'?

A reasonable belief based on articulable facts that a crime has been or is being committed (Correct answer)
A mere hunch that someone appears suspicious
Any anonymous tip regardless of reliability
A witness statement alone, regardless of credibility

Correct answer: A reasonable belief based on articulable facts that a crime has been or is being committed

Probable cause requires a reasonable belief supported by specific, articulable facts — not mere suspicion.

Question 58: Which sentence uses apostrophes correctly?

The officers reports were filed on time, but the sergeants wasnt.
The officers' report were filed on time, but the sergeants' wasnt.
The officer's reports were filed on time, but the sergeant's wasn't. (Correct answer)
The officer's report's were filed on time, but the sergeant's wasn't.

Correct answer: The officer's reports were filed on time, but the sergeant's wasn't.

'Officer's' (singular possessive) and 'sergeant's' (singular possessive) and 'wasn't' (contraction) are all correct.

Question 59: A sketch of a missing person shows a woman with a heart-shaped face, a small upturned nose, and large almond-shaped eyes. An officer encounters a woman with a heart-shaped face, a small upturned nose, and large round eyes. What should the officer do?

Dismiss the match entirely because the eyes differ
Ignore the encounter as insufficient information exists
Note the partial match and investigate further, as eye shape descriptions can vary by observer (Correct answer)
Detain the woman immediately as a confirmed match

Correct answer: Note the partial match and investigate further, as eye shape descriptions can vary by observer

A partial match with one differing detail (almond vs. round eyes) warrants investigation because observer descriptions of eye shape are often subjective.

Question 60: When an Auxiliary officer is assigned foot patrol and observes graffiti being applied to a building, the officer should:

Confiscate the spray paint cans as evidence
Ignore it as a minor offense beneath auxiliary duties
Attempt to detain the graffiti vandal until police arrive
Document the description of perpetrators and notify the command (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Document the description of perpetrators and notify the command

The officer should record descriptions and report to the command rather than attempting to detain individuals alone.

Question 61: For an ordinary traffic infraction in New York, what is the typical enforcement action an officer takes?

Arrest and transport to the precinct
Issue a verbal warning with no documentation
Impound the vehicle immediately
Issue a written summons (appearance ticket) (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Issue a written summons (appearance ticket)

For traffic infractions, officers issue a written summons requiring a court appearance; full arrest is generally reserved for misdemeanors, felonies, or specific VTL violations.

Question 62: Under New York Penal Law, assault in the second degree is classified as a:

Class A misdemeanor
Violation
Class B felony
Class D felony (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Class D felony

Assault in the second degree (PL §120.05) is a Class D violent felony in New York.

Question 63: Under New York Penal Law, what generally distinguishes a misdemeanor from a felony?

Misdemeanors are only traffic violations; felonies cover all other crimes
Misdemeanors require a jury trial; felonies do not
Misdemeanors carry no possible jail time; felonies carry up to 5 years
Misdemeanors carry a maximum of 1 year in jail; felonies carry more than 1 year in prison (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Misdemeanors carry a maximum of 1 year in jail; felonies carry more than 1 year in prison

In New York, misdemeanors are punishable by up to 1 year in jail, while felonies carry sentences exceeding 1 year in state prison.

Question 64: An officer stops a pedestrian and pats down their outer clothing. This action is legally known as:

A Terry stop and frisk (Correct answer)
An administrative search
A full search incident to arrest
A consensual encounter

Correct answer: A Terry stop and frisk

Terry v. Ohio established that officers may briefly detain and pat down a person's outer clothing based on reasonable suspicion of criminal activity.

Question 65: A patrol briefing describes a wanted vehicle as a 2021 silver Toyota Camry, license plate MRV-3856, last seen heading southbound on Broadway. What direction was the vehicle heading?

Eastbound
Westbound
Northbound
Southbound (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Southbound

The vehicle was last seen heading southbound on Broadway.

Question 66: A complainant reports a crime that occurred in three stages. The final confrontation happened before the initial break-in in their telling. What should the officer do when writing the report?

Ask a supervisor to write the report
Reorder the events chronologically in the report (Correct answer)
Leave the order ambiguous
Record events exactly as the complainant described them

Correct answer: Reorder the events chronologically in the report

Official reports must present events in chronological order to accurately reflect what occurred, regardless of how the witness described them.

Question 67: During a briefing, an officer is told a suspect fled north on Maple Avenue, then turned east on 5th Street. In which direction did the suspect turn on 5th Street?

West
East (Correct answer)
North
South

Correct answer: East

The briefing stated the suspect turned east on 5th Street.

Question 68: Passage: 'Police Officer Kim was assigned to foot patrol on the midnight tour. At 02:17, she observed a male individual attempting to force open a door to a closed pharmacy. The individual fled when he noticed Officer Kim. She immediately broadcast a description over the radio: male, approximately 5'10", wearing a black hoodie and jeans, last seen running northbound on Madison Avenue.' In which direction did the suspect flee? A) Southbound B) Eastbound C) Westbound D) Northbound

Westbound
Eastbound
Southbound
Northbound (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Northbound

Officer Kim broadcast that the suspect was 'last seen running northbound on Madison Avenue.'

Question 69: Passage: 'A robbery was reported at a convenience store located at 450 West Broadway. The victim stated that two males entered the store, one displayed a firearm, and they demanded money from the register. Approximately $340 in cash was taken. Both suspects fled in a white pickup truck.' Approximately how much money was stolen? A) $34 B) $304 C) $340 D) $3,400

$3,400
$304
$340 (Correct answer)
$34

Correct answer: $340

The passage states 'approximately $340 in cash was taken.'

Question 70: A patrol officer responds to a burglary. Arrange these tasks in the order they should be performed: (1) Interview the victim, (2) Check for suspects still on scene, (3) Photograph the scene, (4) Request crime scene unit

1, 2, 3, 4
2, 3, 4, 1
2, 4, 3, 1 (Correct answer)
4, 2, 3, 1

Correct answer: 2, 4, 3, 1

Officer safety requires checking for suspects first, CSU is requested early, scene is documented, then the victim is interviewed.

Question 71: A supervisor orders you to falsify a report to cover up a minor procedural error. What should you do?

Refuse and document the order, then report it to Internal Affairs (Correct answer)
Comply this one time but warn the supervisor not to ask again
Comply since the error was minor and the supervisor has authority
Falsify the report but note what happened in a personal journal

Correct answer: Refuse and document the order, then report it to Internal Affairs

Falsifying official reports is illegal regardless of who orders it; refusal and reporting to IAB is the required course of action.

Question 72: An officer is shown a photograph of a crime scene for one minute. The photo shows broken glass on the left side of the door, a knocked-over trash can near the curb, and a broken streetlamp overhead. After the photo is removed, what was located near the curb?

A knocked-over trash can (Correct answer)
A parked bicycle
Broken glass
A broken streetlamp

Correct answer: A knocked-over trash can

The scene description placed the knocked-over trash can near the curb, not the glass or the streetlamp.

Question 73: An officer arrives at the scene of a reported domestic violence incident and finds the victim has visible injuries. Under New York law, the officer MUST:

Mediate and document the incident without making an arrest
Make an arrest if there is probable cause that a crime occurred, regardless of whether the victim wants to press charges (Correct answer)
Encourage the couple to resolve the matter privately
Leave if the victim refuses to cooperate

Correct answer: Make an arrest if there is probable cause that a crime occurred, regardless of whether the victim wants to press charges

New York's mandatory arrest law requires officers to arrest the primary aggressor in domestic violence cases when probable cause exists, irrespective of victim wishes.

Question 74: Which sentence is written in active voice, which is preferred in police reports?

The suspect was apprehended by Officer Lee.
The stolen wallet was recovered at the scene.
Officer Lee apprehended the suspect near the subway entrance. (Correct answer)
A knife was found to be concealed in the suspect's waistband.

Correct answer: Officer Lee apprehended the suspect near the subway entrance.

In active voice, the subject (Officer Lee) performs the action, making the sentence clearer and more direct.

Question 75: What is the primary purpose of a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?

To track vehicle registration renewal deadlines
To record the vehicle's insurance policy information
To record the vehicle's complete service and maintenance history
To uniquely identify each manufactured vehicle for tracking ownership, recalls, and theft (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To uniquely identify each manufactured vehicle for tracking ownership, recalls, and theft

The VIN is a standardized 17-character code assigned by the manufacturer that uniquely identifies every vehicle, used for ownership tracking, theft recovery, and recall notices.

Question 76: While writing an arrest report, Officer Kim must list the sequence of events. Which ordering principle should be used?

Most serious events listed first regardless of time
Chronological order from first contact to arrest (Correct answer)
The officer's actions before the subject's actions
Witness accounts before officer observations

Correct answer: Chronological order from first contact to arrest

Arrest reports must follow chronological order to create a clear legal narrative of how the arrest unfolded.

Question 77: What does 'exigent circumstances' permit law enforcement to do?

Search a vehicle without consent following any traffic stop
Enter a premises without a warrant when immediate action is necessary to prevent harm or destruction of evidence (Correct answer)
Delay an arrest for up to 72 hours pending investigation
Detain a witness indefinitely for questioning

Correct answer: Enter a premises without a warrant when immediate action is necessary to prevent harm or destruction of evidence

Exigent circumstances allow warrantless entry when there is an urgent need to prevent harm, escape, or evidence destruction.

Question 78: A suspect is described as having tattoos on his right forearm and left shoulder, and a birthmark on his neck. Where is the birthmark located?

Left shoulder
Right forearm
Neck (Correct answer)
Left forearm

Correct answer: Neck

The birthmark is on the suspect's neck, distinguishing it from the tattooed locations.

Question 79: You are dispatched to a 'person with a knife' call and arrive to find a man holding a kitchen knife, appearing confused and possibly emotionally disturbed. What is your best initial approach?

Rush the subject to disarm him before he can react
Draw your firearm immediately and order him to drop the knife
Leave and wait for a specialized unit without engaging
Maintain a safe distance, use calm verbal commands, and request a mental health crisis team (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Maintain a safe distance, use calm verbal commands, and request a mental health crisis team

Crisis intervention techniques — maintaining distance, calm communication, and calling for mental health support — reduce the likelihood of escalation.

Question 80: Passage: 'The juvenile should be treated with respect and dignity throughout all stages of the process. Juveniles taken into custody must be separated from adult detainees at all times. Fingerprinting and photographing of juveniles is only permitted for certain serious offenses as defined by the Family Court Act.' Which of the following is ALWAYS required when a juvenile is taken into custody? A) Fingerprinting and photographing B) Notification of the Family Court C) Separation from adult detainees D) Transfer to a specialized juvenile facility

Transfer to a specialized juvenile facility
Fingerprinting and photographing
Notification of the Family Court
Separation from adult detainees (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Separation from adult detainees

The passage states juveniles 'must be separated from adult detainees at all times,' making this a universal requirement.

Question 81: A suspect's description includes: approximately 35 years old, Latino male, 5'11", 210 lbs, black beard, wearing a tan coat and black boots. How tall is the suspect?

6'1"
5'9"
6'0"
5'11" (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 5'11"

The suspect's height was given as 5'11".

Question 82: During a NYPD exam visualization section, candidates view a scene for 90 seconds showing a red fire truck parked in front of a school, a crossing guard on the northeast corner, and a group of children on the school steps. After the image is removed, what was on the school steps?

Police officers
The crossing guard
A group of children (Correct answer)
The fire truck

Correct answer: A group of children

The scene showed children on the school steps; the crossing guard was on the corner and the fire truck was parked in front.

Question 83: The Miranda warning must be given to a suspect BEFORE:

The suspect is searched incident to arrest
A judge sets bail at arraignment
Any contact between the officer and the suspect
Custodial interrogation regarding the suspected crime (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Custodial interrogation regarding the suspected crime

Miranda v. Arizona requires that warnings be given before custodial interrogation to protect Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination.

Question 84: A driver's vehicle registration has been expired for three months. Under New York law, this violation is classified as which type of offense?

Class A misdemeanor
Class E felony
Traffic infraction (Correct answer)
Violation with mandatory jail time

Correct answer: Traffic infraction

An expired registration is a traffic infraction under New York VTL, the lowest level of offense, typically addressed with a summons rather than arrest.

NYPD Police Officer Exam

The NYPD Police Officer Exam exam validates essential knowledge and skills required for certification or licensure in this field.

Questions

90 min

Time Limit

70%

To Pass

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These practice questions were written with AI tools. They are not real exam questions. Exam facts are checked against the official sources listed below. Not reviewed by a subject-matter expert. Editorial policy

Sources & references

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nyc.gov — Test delivery, fees, passing score, registration deadline, registration, score release, test dates, score validity · verified Nov 2026