SDPD written exam — what's the format and how competitive is the process?
C
Chris D.OP
May 27, 2026
Applied to the San Diego Police Department and have the written exam scheduled. I have a bachelor's degree and 2 years working in security. No law enforcement background. The SDPD application website mentions basic reading and writing but I want to understand what the actual written test covers and how it's used in selection.
S
Samantha C.
May 28, 2026
The written is just one screening filter. The polygraph, background investigation, and psych eval are the major selection gates. Do well on the written, then focus your mental energy on being thorough and honest in the background process.
B
Brian Y.
May 28, 2026
The SDPD written is a standardized reading comprehension and writing assessment — similar to other major department formats. It's not a law knowledge test. Clear communication under pressure is what they're evaluating.
J
Jessica L.
May 28, 2026
SDPD's process is competitive because it's a desirable department. They have high applicant volume so maintaining strong communication throughout the process — staying responsive, professional — matters as much as the scores.