NYPD Police Officer Exam — Questions and Answers

Question 1: You are standing on the south side of Main Street, facing North. The public library is directly in front of you, across the street. A pizzeria is on the same side of the street as you, to your right. A hardware store is located on the northwest corner of the intersection of Main Street and Oak Avenue, which is one block to your west. What is the location of the pizzeria in relation to the hardware store?

Southeast (Correct answer)
Northwest
Northeast
Southwest

Correct answer: Southeast

You are on the south side of Main St. Facing North, your right is East. So, the pizzeria is to your east. The hardware store is to your west and across the street (north). Therefore, the pizzeria is located southeast of the hardware store.

Question 2: What is the purpose of an 'aided report' (aided card) in NYPD procedure?

To record assistance provided to a sick, injured, or deceased person (Correct answer)
To log an officer's overtime and extra duty hours
To document property vouchers at an arrest scene
To track monthly arrest statistics by precinct

Correct answer: To record assistance provided to a sick, injured, or deceased person

An aided report documents any incident in which NYPD provides assistance to a person who is sick, injured, unconscious, or deceased.

Question 3: An officer drives 120 miles total across 4 equal patrol routes. How long is each route?

30 miles (Correct answer)
25 miles
35 miles
40 miles

Correct answer: 30 miles

120 miles ÷ 4 routes = 30 miles per route.

Question 4: An officer is shown a 'wanted' poster for 5 minutes. Which of the following memorization techniques would be most effective for recalling specific details like scars, marks, or tattoos?

Reading the text description repeatedly without looking at the image.
Creating a mental story or association that links the suspect's name to their unique features. (Correct answer)
Focusing solely on the suspect's height and weight as they are numerical.
Trying to remember the general impression of the suspect's face.

Correct answer: Creating a mental story or association that links the suspect's name to their unique features.

Creating associations or mental links (a mnemonic device) is a powerful memory technique. For instance, if a suspect named 'Chase' has a scar over his eye, you might imagine him 'chasing' something and getting the scar. This active memorization process is more effective for recalling specific, distinct details than passive observation or focusing on only one type of information.

Question 5: A suspect description states: female, 5'5", 135 lbs, black hair pulled back, wearing a green jacket and gray pants. What color was the suspect's jacket?

Black
Green (Correct answer)
Blue
Gray

Correct answer: Green

The description states the suspect was wearing a green jacket.

Question 6: You are shown a wanted poster featuring a suspect with a unique tattoo on their forearm, described as 'a serpent coiled around a dagger pointing downwards.' Which of the following descriptions accurately matches this visual?

A dragon wrapped around a dagger that is pointing down.
A snake wrapped around a sword that is pointing up.
A serpent wrapped around a dagger that is pointing down. (Correct answer)
A serpent wrapped around a sword that is pointing sideways.

Correct answer: A serpent wrapped around a dagger that is pointing down.

This answer is the only one that correctly identifies all three key elements from the description: the creature (serpent, not dragon or snake), the object (dagger, not sword), and the orientation (pointing downwards). Effective matching requires attention to each specific detail.

Question 7: All officers assigned to the 34th Precinct must complete annual firearms qualifications. Officer Chen is assigned to the 34th Precinct. Which conclusion is definitely true?

Officer Chen has already completed qualifications this year
Officer Chen must complete annual firearms qualifications (Correct answer)
Officer Chen is the best shooter in the precinct
Officer Chen may be exempt from qualifications

Correct answer: Officer Chen must complete annual firearms qualifications

Since all officers at the 34th Precinct must qualify annually and Chen is assigned there, it is definitively true that Chen must complete annual firearms qualifications.

Question 8: A departmental regulation states: 'All sworn officers must qualify with their service weapon quarterly.' Officer Diaz is a sworn officer. Based on this information, which of the following is a logically certain conclusion?

Officer Diaz must qualify with her service weapon quarterly. (Correct answer)
Officer Diaz is an expert marksman.
Officer Diaz is currently on duty.
Officer Diaz has been with the department for many years.

Correct answer: Officer Diaz must qualify with her service weapon quarterly.

This is an example of deductive reasoning. It starts with a general rule (All sworn officers must...) and applies it to a specific instance (Officer Diaz is a sworn officer) to arrive at a conclusion that is guaranteed to be true if the first two statements are true.

Question 9: The New York City Police Department is organized under which city agency?

The New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services
The New York City Department of Investigation
The City of New York, reporting to the Mayor (Correct answer)
The Mayor's Office of Criminal Justice

Correct answer: The City of New York, reporting to the Mayor

The NYPD is a mayoral agency; the Police Commissioner is appointed by and reports to the Mayor of New York City.

Question 10: An Auxiliary Police Officer encounters a person who is apparently intoxicated and disorderly. The BEST immediate action is to:

Request regular police assistance via radio (Correct answer)
Escort the individual to the nearest subway station
Physically restrain the individual until regular officers arrive
Issue a verbal warning and continue patrol

Correct answer: Request regular police assistance via radio

Auxiliary officers should request regular police backup rather than physically engaging with a disorderly person.

Question 11: During a NYPD Patrol Guide exercise, officers are shown a diagram of a four-way intersection with traffic signals. The north-south road is Main Street and the east-west road is 5th Avenue. An officer standing on the southwest corner facing north is looking toward:

The northeast corner
The southwest corner
The northwest corner (Correct answer)
The southeast corner

Correct answer: The northwest corner

Standing on the southwest corner and facing north, the officer looks directly toward the northwest corner across the intersection.

Question 12: During a multi-car pileup, an officer must prioritize tasks. Rank these in order: (1) Direct traffic around the accident, (2) Check for injuries, (3) Call for medical assistance, (4) Take witness information

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

Correct answer: 2, 3, 1, 4

Checking for injuries identifies medical need, EMS is called, traffic is directed to prevent further accidents, then witness information is collected.

Question 13: Which amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects citizens against unreasonable searches and seizures?

Fourth Amendment (Correct answer)
Second Amendment
Sixth Amendment
Fifth Amendment

Correct answer: Fourth Amendment

The Fourth Amendment prohibits unreasonable searches and seizures and requires warrants to be supported by probable cause.

Question 14: An officer reviews a wanted bulletin listing these details: DOB 03/14/1988, height 5'9", weight 165 lbs, scar on left cheek. On which cheek does the subject have a scar?

Left cheek (Correct answer)
Right cheek
Chin
Both cheeks

Correct answer: Left cheek

The bulletin specifically states the scar is on the left cheek.

Question 15: Two officers are assigned to opposite ends of a north-south alley. Officer A is at the north end; Officer B is at the south end. They walk toward each other. What direction is each officer walking?

Officer A walks south; Officer B walks north (Correct answer)
Officer A walks north; Officer B walks south
Both officers walk north
Both officers walk south

Correct answer: Officer A walks south; Officer B walks north

Officer A at the north end walks south toward Officer B; Officer B at the south end walks north toward Officer A.

Question 16: A person approaches an officer on patrol and reports that her purse was stolen five minutes ago. The officer should FIRST:

Obtain a detailed description of the suspect and the direction of flight (Correct answer)
Ask the victim to come to the precinct to file a report
Call a supervisor for guidance
Broadcast a description of the suspect over the radio

Correct answer: Obtain a detailed description of the suspect and the direction of flight

Obtaining a suspect description and direction of flight immediately maximizes the chance of apprehension while the suspect is nearby.

Question 17: 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)
On the kitchen counter
Under the table
Near the window

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 18: An officer is given four case numbers to remember in order: 2026-04411, 2026-04413, 2026-04417, 2026-04421. Which case number is THIRD in the sequence?

2026-04417 (Correct answer)
2026-04421
2026-04411
2026-04413

Correct answer: 2026-04417

The third case number in the sequence is 2026-04417.

Question 19: When writing a police report, which information is considered MOST essential to include?

The exact time, date, location, and description of the incident (Correct answer)
A summary of similar past incidents in the area
Recommendations for sentencing
The officer's personal opinion of the suspect

Correct answer: The exact time, date, location, and description of the incident

Accurate factual details — time, date, location, and incident description — form the foundation of a valid police report.

Question 20: Which word correctly completes the sentence? 'The ___ evidence was admitted in court.'

defendants
defendant's (Correct answer)
defendants'
defendants's

Correct answer: defendant's

Since there is one defendant, the singular possessive 'defendant's' is correct.

Question 21: A patrol sergeant instructs officers to cover every corner of the block bounded by Washington Ave, Lincoln Ave, 10th St, and 11th St. How many corners must be covered?

4 corners (Correct answer)
2 corners
8 corners
3 corners

Correct answer: 4 corners

A standard rectangular city block has exactly four corners, one at each intersection of the bounding streets.

Question 22: 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?

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
Dismiss the match entirely because the eyes differ
Ignore the encounter as insufficient information exists

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 23: You are shown a photograph of a busy intersection. In the foreground, a red car is stopped at a traffic light. To the right of the red car is a cyclist wearing a blue helmet. A newsstand is visible on the northwest corner of the intersection, and a bus is turning left. Based on this scene, which of the following statements is definitively true?

A bus is making a left turn within the intersection. (Correct answer)
The traffic light for the red car is green.
The newsstand is located on the southeast corner.
The cyclist is wearing a red helmet.

Correct answer: A bus is making a left turn within the intersection.

The description explicitly states that "a bus is turning left," making this statement factually correct based on the provided information. The other statements contain direct contradictions: the car is stopped at the light (implying it's not green), the cyclist's helmet is blue (not red), and the newsstand is on the northwest corner (not southeast).

Question 24: While on patrol in a residential neighborhood, you observe two individuals shouting at each other on the sidewalk. The argument appears heated, but not physically violent. As you approach, several neighbors come out of their houses to watch. What is the most appropriate initial action to take?

Instruct the neighbors to go back inside to avoid escalating the situation.
Observe from a distance and request backup before engaging.
Immediately separate the two individuals and demand their identification.
Calmly approach the individuals, introduce yourself, and ask what is happening. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Calmly approach the individuals, introduce yourself, and ask what is happening.

The best initial action is to de-escalate the situation. By calmly approaching, introducing yourself, and inquiring about the situation, you establish a non-threatening presence and can gather information to assess the problem. This approach is central to community policing and conflict resolution. Immediate separation or demanding ID can be perceived as aggressive and may escalate the conflict. While managing bystanders is important, addressing the primary conflict is the priority. Requesting backup is premature without evidence of a credible threat.

Question 25: Officer Thompson observes that every shoplifting incident at a particular mall over the past three months occurred on a weekend. This weekend, she is assigned to the mall. Using inductive reasoning, which is the most appropriate action?

Assume no shoplifting will occur since the pattern might be coincidence
Ignore the pattern because inductive reasoning is unreliable
Increase her vigilance because the pattern suggests a higher probability of shoplifting (Correct answer)
Arrest anyone acting suspiciously regardless of evidence

Correct answer: Increase her vigilance because the pattern suggests a higher probability of shoplifting

Inductive reasoning from a consistent pattern justifies heightened vigilance, though it does not guarantee an incident will occur.

Question 26: A patrol sector map shows a Library (northwest corner), Park (northeast corner), School (southeast corner), and Fire Station (southwest corner). A crime occurred midway between the Library and the School. Where did the crime occur?

At the northeast corner
At the northwest corner
At the southern edge midpoint
At the center of the map (Correct answer)

Correct answer: At the center of the map

The midpoint between the northwest corner (Library) and the southeast corner (School) is the center of the map.

Question 27: Two witness descriptions of the same suspect are compared. Witness A says the suspect had brown hair and was about 6'0". Witness B says the suspect had dark hair and was about 5'11". Which detail is MOST likely accurate when the descriptions agree?

The hair being dark/brown in color (Correct answer)
The facial features, which neither witness mentioned
Neither description is useful
The exact height

Correct answer: The hair being dark/brown in color

Both witnesses described hair color similarly (brown/dark), making this the most corroborated and reliable detail.

Question 28: 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?

Right forearm
Left shoulder
Neck (Correct answer)
Left forearm

Correct answer: Neck

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

Question 29: An officer memorizes a list of five outstanding warrants by last name: Torres, Kim, Albrecht, Nguyen, Patel. Which name appears THIRD on the list?

Nguyen
Kim
Torres
Albrecht (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Albrecht

Albrecht is the third name in the sequence Torres, Kim, Albrecht, Nguyen, Patel.

Question 30: Which statement about patrols in housing projects is true?

You should place crime scene tape over open elevator doors and then continue patrol
You should patrol housing development lobbies (Correct answer)
You should immediately remove persons from a stuck elevator
You should conduct verticals to ensure the safety of all residents

Correct answer: You should patrol housing development lobbies

Auxiliary officers are tasked with maintaining a visible presence to deter crime and ensure community safety. Patrolling housing development lobbies is a key part of this strategy, as lobbies are common areas where residents gather and where criminal activity can occur. A visible presence acts as a deterrent and provides reassurance to residents.

Question 31: While writing a report at the precinct, you realize your partner made a significant factual error in their portion of a shared report. What do you do?

Report your partner to Internal Affairs immediately
Notify your partner of the error and allow them to correct it through proper channels (Correct answer)
Correct the error yourself without telling your partner
Submit the report as-is since it is your partner's responsibility

Correct answer: Notify your partner of the error and allow them to correct it through proper channels

Giving your partner the opportunity to correct their own error through proper channels is the professional and appropriate first step.

Question 32: 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 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)
The second person is an unauthorized tenant

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 33: Which of the following BEST describes the concept of 'reasonable suspicion' as it applies to police stops?

Articulable facts suggesting criminal activity may be occurring (Correct answer)
A hunch based on an officer's gut feeling
A warrant issued by a judge
Proof beyond a reasonable doubt that a crime was committed

Correct answer: Articulable facts suggesting criminal activity may be occurring

Reasonable suspicion requires specific, articulable facts that criminal activity is afoot, as established in Terry v. Ohio.

Question 34: Passage: 'The department's body-worn camera policy requires that officers activate their cameras prior to any law enforcement encounter, including traffic stops, investigatory stops, and arrests. Cameras must remain activated until the encounter has concluded and the officer has returned to a position of safety.' When may an officer deactivate their body-worn camera? A) When the suspect requests it B) After the encounter ends and the officer is in a safe position C) Once handcuffs are applied to the suspect D) At the officer's discretion during any point of the encounter

At the officer's discretion during any point of the encounter
When the suspect requests it
Once handcuffs are applied to the suspect
After the encounter ends and the officer is in a safe position (Correct answer)

Correct answer: After the encounter ends and the officer is in a safe position

The policy states cameras must remain on 'until the encounter has concluded and the officer has returned to a position of safety.'

Question 35: A department rule states: 'No officer may accept gifts valued over $25 from any member of the public.' Officer Nguyen receives a gift basket from a grateful citizen valued at $40. What is the correct conclusion?

Officer Nguyen may keep it since it is a gift, not a bribe
Officer Nguyen violated the rule by accepting a gift valued over $25 (Correct answer)
The rule only applies to cash gifts
Officer Nguyen may keep half and return the rest

Correct answer: Officer Nguyen violated the rule by accepting a gift valued over $25

The rule explicitly prohibits accepting any gift over $25 from the public; a $40 gift basket falls above the threshold and violates the rule.

Question 36: A building fire is reported. Place the following notifications in the correct priority order: (1) Notify fire department, (2) Evacuate occupants, (3) Establish a perimeter, (4) Contact the building manager

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

Correct answer: 2, 1, 3, 4

Occupant safety is paramount, fire department must respond, a perimeter keeps civilians safe, then the building manager is contacted.

Question 37: Choose the word that best completes the sentence: 'The officer's testimony was ___ with the evidence collected at the scene.'

consisted
consistence
consistent (Correct answer)
consisting

Correct answer: consistent

'Consistent' is the correct adjective to describe agreement between the testimony and the evidence.

Question 38: Under NYPD patrol guide procedures, what is a 'complaint report' (UF-61) used for?

Logging a request for equipment or supplies
Recording a civilian complaint filed against an officer
Documenting a crime or alleged criminal incident reported to police (Correct answer)
Tracking an officer's disciplinary history

Correct answer: Documenting a crime or alleged criminal incident reported to police

The UF-61 complaint report is the standard NYPD form used to document any crime or criminal incident reported to or observed by police.

Question 39: Which of the following is NOT one of the three field sobriety tests standardized by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)?

Walk-and-Turn
Finger-to-Nose (Correct answer)
One-Leg Stand
Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus

Correct answer: Finger-to-Nose

NHTSA recognizes only three standardized field sobriety tests: HGN, Walk-and-Turn, and One-Leg Stand; the Finger-to-Nose test is not among them.

Question 40: 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
Advise the officer privately but take no further action
Report the incident to your supervisor as a potential gratuity violation (Correct answer)
Accept the meal since it is a small token of appreciation

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 41: Auxiliary Police Officers are primarily classified as which type of personnel?

Reserve military personnel
Full-time paid employees
Volunteer civilian members (Correct answer)
Part-time contract workers

Correct answer: Volunteer civilian members

Auxiliary Police Officers are unpaid volunteers who supplement the NYPD in non-emergency situations.

Question 42: Officer Mendez is investigating a string of car break-ins. The first four all occurred in parking garages at night. The fifth occurred in an outdoor lot during daytime. Which inductive conclusion is most appropriate?

No conclusions can ever be drawn from a pattern
The suspect changed methods to avoid detection
The fifth incident is likely unrelated given the significant pattern deviations (Correct answer)
The fifth incident is definitely part of the same series

Correct answer: The fifth incident is likely unrelated given the significant pattern deviations

Two key pattern elements — location type and time of day — both differ in the fifth incident, making it more probable that it is unrelated to the series.

Question 43: Passage: 'At 09:15, a call came in reporting a suspicious package left unattended outside the entrance to City Hall. Officer Reyes secured a perimeter of 200 feet, notified her supervisor, and contacted the NYPD Bomb Squad. The Bomb Squad arrived at 09:47 and determined the package was a forgotten briefcase containing personal items.' How long did it take the Bomb Squad to arrive after the initial call? A) 15 minutes B) 32 minutes C) 47 minutes D) The passage does not provide enough information

47 minutes
32 minutes (Correct answer)
15 minutes
The passage does not provide enough information

Correct answer: 32 minutes

The call came in at 09:15 and the Bomb Squad arrived at 09:47, which is a difference of 32 minutes.

Question 44: 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?

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

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 45: Consider the following two statements: 1. All evidence stored in Locker 12B is from the Henderson case. 2. A sealed bag containing a firearm is in Locker 12B. Based on these statements, what is the logical deductive conclusion?

The firearm in the sealed bag is from the Henderson case. (Correct answer)
All evidence from the Henderson case is a firearm.
No other evidence from the Henderson case exists.
Locker 12B is the only location for evidence storage.

Correct answer: The firearm in the sealed bag is from the Henderson case.

Deductive reasoning applies a general rule to a specific instance. The general rule is that everything in Locker 12B is from the Henderson case. The specific instance is the firearm in the locker. Therefore, the certain conclusion is that the firearm must be from the Henderson case.

Question 46: A complainant who called 911 for a noise complaint refuses to provide their name and demands anonymity. What should you do?

Refuse to take the complaint without a name
Document an anonymous complaint and investigate accordingly (Correct answer)
Reveal the caller's identity to the alleged violator
Dismiss the complaint as unverifiable

Correct answer: Document an anonymous complaint and investigate accordingly

Anonymous complaints can still be investigated; officers should document and respond even without a named complainant.

Question 47: You are the first officer on scene at a reported domestic disturbance. You hear shouting inside but no sounds of violence. What is your first step?

Knock, announce your presence, and request entry while awaiting backup (Correct answer)
Leave and return later if another call comes in
Force entry immediately to prevent potential violence
Wait outside and listen to determine if entry is necessary

Correct answer: Knock, announce your presence, and request entry while awaiting backup

Knocking, announcing, and awaiting backup follows proper protocol while preserving your safety and respecting residents' rights.

Question 48: When making an arrest of a suspect, there are three things you must never forget to do. And what are they?

Handcuff the suspect, Search the suspect for possessions, and Read the Miranda Rights to the suspect. (Correct answer)
Do not handcuff the suspect, Ask him some questions on why he did the crime, Read him the Miranda Rights.
Handcuff the suspect, Search the suspect for possessions, Bring him down to the station.
Handcuff the suspect, Bring him to your car, Drive to the station.

Correct answer: Handcuff the suspect, Search the suspect for possessions, and Read the Miranda Rights to the suspect.

These three actions are fundamental steps in a lawful arrest, ensuring officer safety, preventing the destruction of evidence, and protecting the suspect's constitutional rights. Handcuffing secures the suspect, a search (pat-down) ensures no weapons or evidence are present, and reading Miranda Rights informs the suspect of their right to remain silent and right to an attorney before custodial questioning. Omitting any of these steps can compromise the arrest or subsequent legal proceedings.

Question 49: Which sentence uses apostrophes correctly?

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

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 50: 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?

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

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 51: An officer responds to a report of a man with a gun. Dispatch advises the suspect is in an apartment on the 4th floor. The officer's FIRST action upon arrival should be:

Knock on the apartment door and announce police presence
Immediately enter the building and proceed to the 4th floor
Establish a perimeter, contact dispatch for updates, and wait for backup (Correct answer)
Evacuate the entire building before taking action

Correct answer: Establish a perimeter, contact dispatch for updates, and wait for backup

Establishing a perimeter and waiting for backup is the safest approach when responding to a confirmed armed person call.

Question 52: Which of the following sentences contains a spelling error?

It's necessary to secure the perimeter before the investigation begins.
The stolen vehicle was a late-model sedan.
The officer advised the complainant to file a restraining order.
The suspect's story was not credible and lacked any principle evidence. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The suspect's story was not credible and lacked any principle evidence.

The word 'principle' (a fundamental truth or rule) is used incorrectly. The correct word is 'principal,' which means main or most important. 'Principal evidence' would refer to the main evidence.

Question 53: Read the following excerpt from a police report and answer the question: 'The witness, Ms. Eleanor Vance, stated that she observed the suspect fleeing the scene at approximately 22:30 hours. She described the individual as a male, approximately 6 feet tall, wearing a dark-colored hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans. Ms. Vance was visibly shaken but provided a coherent account of the events. She mentioned that the suspect ran south on Maple Avenue before disappearing into an alleyway. Her testimony was corroborated by security footage from a nearby convenience store, which, although grainy, showed a figure matching the description at the specified time and location.' What is the main purpose of this paragraph in the police report?

To detail the emotional state of the witness.
To question the reliability of Ms. Vance's statement.
To provide a physical description of the officer on duty.
To summarize a key witness's account and note its verification. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To summarize a key witness's account and note its verification.

The paragraph's primary function is to document the witness's statement, including the suspect's description and direction of flight, and to mention that this information was supported by other evidence (security footage).

Question 54: Officer Chen studies a crime scene sketch showing a mailbox on the southeast corner, a bus stop bench on the southwest corner, and a fire escape on the building's east wall. A witness claims to have seen the crime from behind the bus stop bench. Where was the witness?

On the southwest corner (Correct answer)
On the southeast corner
On the east side of the building
Inside the building

Correct answer: On the southwest corner

The bus stop bench was located on the southwest corner, so the witness was on the southwest corner.

Question 55: Organize the following steps for processing a crime scene in the correct order: (1) Release scene to owner, (2) Document and photograph, (3) Establish crime scene perimeter, (4) Collect physical evidence

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

Correct answer: 3, 2, 4, 1

Perimeter secures the scene, documentation preserves the original state, evidence is then collected, and the scene is released last.

Question 56: You are reviewing notes to write a report about a pursuit. The notes are as follows: - 14:30: Suspect vehicle apprehended at Elm St. and Oak Ave. - 14:22: Initiated traffic stop on a vehicle for speeding. - 14:28: Supervisor authorized tire deflation device deployment. - 14:23: Vehicle fled the stop, initiating a pursuit. What is the correct timeline of these events?

14:23, 14:22, 14:28, 14:30
14:22, 14:28, 14:23, 14:30
14:22, 14:23, 14:28, 14:30 (Correct answer)
14:28, 14:22, 14:23, 14:30

Correct answer: 14:22, 14:23, 14:28, 14:30

The correct sequence follows the numerical order of the timestamps provided. The incident began with the traffic stop at 14:22, escalated when the vehicle fled at 14:23, involved a tactical decision at 14:28, and concluded with the apprehension at 14:30.

Question 57: Which of the following best describes 'chain of custody' in a criminal investigation?

The organizational hierarchy of the NYPD command structure
The documented record of who collected, handled, and transferred evidence (Correct answer)
The order in which witnesses are interviewed at a crime scene
The sequence of arrests made during a single incident

Correct answer: The documented record of who collected, handled, and transferred evidence

Chain of custody documents each person who has handled evidence to ensure it has not been tampered with or contaminated.

Question 58: Under New York Penal Law, assault in the second degree is classified as a:

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

Correct answer: Class D felony

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

Question 59: A vehicle description reads: 2019 Honda Civic, dark blue, four-door, with a cracked rear windshield and a missing front bumper. What was damaged on the REAR of the vehicle?

Front bumper
Rear windshield (Correct answer)
Rear bumper
Rear door

Correct answer: Rear windshield

The rear of the vehicle had a cracked windshield.

Question 60: A police department regulation states: 'Detectives may carry an off-duty firearm only if they have a valid annual certification.' Detective Simmons's certification expired last month. Which conclusion is certain?

Detective Simmons is not authorized to carry her off-duty firearm until she recertifies (Correct answer)
Detective Simmons must surrender her firearm immediately
Detective Simmons may carry her firearm for a 30-day grace period
Detective Simmons must request a waiver from the commissioner

Correct answer: Detective Simmons is not authorized to carry her off-duty firearm until she recertifies

The regulation makes carrying contingent on a valid certification; since Simmons's certification has expired, she is no longer authorized to carry the off-duty firearm.

Question 61: What legal standard must be met before an officer may conduct a 'stop and frisk' pat-down?

A warrant signed by a magistrate judge
Probable cause to believe the person committed a felony
The officer's personal sense of unease about the individual
Reasonable suspicion that the person is armed and dangerous (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Reasonable suspicion that the person is armed and dangerous

A frisk for weapons requires reasonable suspicion that the person stopped is armed and presently dangerous.

Question 62: What is the primary purpose of a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?

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

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 63: The 'chain of custody' in evidence handling refers to:

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

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 64: A precinct reports 144 incidents over 12 months. What is the average number of incidents per month?

10
12 (Correct answer)
11
14

Correct answer: 12

144 ÷ 12 months = 12 incidents per month on average.

Question 65: Read the following sentences from an officer's notes: 'The vehicle was a blue sedan. It was parked illegally. The vehicle had a broken taillight.' Which option best combines these facts into one clear, grammatically correct sentence?

Parked illegally, the blue sedan, it had a broken taillight.
A blue sedan with a broken taillight was parked illegally. (Correct answer)
The vehicle, a blue sedan, was parked illegally, having a broken taillight.
The vehicle was a blue sedan and it was parked illegally and it had a broken taillight.

Correct answer: A blue sedan with a broken taillight was parked illegally.

This sentence is the most concise and effectively combines the three pieces of information without being repetitive or grammatically awkward. It clearly identifies the subject (a blue sedan) and its attributes (broken taillight, parked illegally) in a fluid manner.

Question 66: Which of the following details in a photograph of a crime scene would be MOST crucial for an officer to actively memorize?

The color of the leaves on a distant tree.
The brand name on a civilian's sweatshirt in the background.
The specific digits on a vehicle's license plate near the scene. (Correct answer)
The number of clouds in the sky.

Correct answer: The specific digits on a vehicle's license plate near the scene.

In a police context, details that can help identify a person, vehicle, or location are of the highest priority. A license plate provides a unique identifier that can be crucial for an investigation. While other details form the context of the scene, a license plate is a specific, actionable piece of information that would be vital to recall accurately.

Question 67: An officer is writing a narrative for an incident report. The following four sentences are to be included: 1. The suspect was located two blocks away and taken into custody without incident. 2. A description of the suspect and their direction of flight was obtained from the complainant. 3. Upon arrival, I made contact with the complainant at the front of the convenience store. 4. At 22:15 hours, I was dispatched to a report of a larceny at 123 Main Street. Which of the following represents the most logical and chronological order for these sentences in the report?

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

Correct answer: 4, 3, 2, 1

Police reports should present events in a clear, chronological sequence. The proper order begins with the initial dispatch (4), followed by the officer's arrival and first action on scene (3), then the gathering of information (2), and concluding with the resolution or next major step (1).

Question 68: You are assigned to a fixed post and notice suspicious activity half a block away outside your designated area. What is the appropriate action?

Radio the dispatcher to report the suspicious activity so another officer can respond (Correct answer)
Abandon your post to investigate the activity
Ask a civilian nearby to watch your post while you investigate
Ignore it since it is outside your assigned area

Correct answer: Radio the dispatcher to report the suspicious activity so another officer can respond

You must stay at your assigned post and use radio to report suspicious activity so resources can be appropriately dispatched.

Question 69: Officer Brown reviews incident reports and notices that car break-ins in a parking garage always occur on the same level and always involve vehicles with out-of-state plates. What problem identification is most accurate?

Out-of-state drivers are parking in an unsecured area
The garage lighting is insufficient on that level
The elevator access to that level is too easy
A suspect is specifically targeting out-of-state vehicles, possibly assuming tourists carry valuables (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A suspect is specifically targeting out-of-state vehicles, possibly assuming tourists carry valuables

The deliberate targeting of out-of-state plates suggests the suspect profiles vehicles belonging to travelers who may carry valuables and are less likely to return to investigate.

Question 70: What does 'chain of custody' refer to in evidence handling?

The documented record tracking who collected, handled, and stored evidence (Correct answer)
The patrol route sequence assigned to officers in a precinct
The list of witnesses present at the original crime scene
The command hierarchy at the scene of a major incident

Correct answer: The documented record tracking who collected, handled, and stored evidence

Chain of custody is the chronological documentation showing who had control of evidence at every point from collection to court.

Question 71: A suspect is described as wearing size 12 shoes with a distinctive chevron tread pattern. Officers find footprints at the scene. Which observation would BEST confirm a match to the suspect?

The footprint shows a chevron tread pattern and is consistent with a size 12 shoe (Correct answer)
The footprint is found in the suspect's direction of travel
The footprint size alone matches size 12
The footprint depth indicates a heavy person

Correct answer: The footprint shows a chevron tread pattern and is consistent with a size 12 shoe

Both the size and the distinctive tread pattern matching together provide a much stronger confirmation than either alone.

Question 72: A rule states: 'Officers must wear body cameras while on patrol.' Officer Cruz is currently off-duty and driving home. Is Cruz required to wear a body camera?

No, the rule only applies while on patrol (Correct answer)
No, unless ordered by a supervisor
Yes, if in uniform
Yes, at all times

Correct answer: No, the rule only applies while on patrol

The rule specifies 'while on patrol'; since Cruz is off-duty, the condition for the rule to apply is not met.

Question 73: In four consecutive months, car thefts in District 9 increased whenever a local event drew large crowds. A major parade is scheduled for next month. What does inductive reasoning suggest?

Car thefts will probably increase next month based on the observed pattern (Correct answer)
The pattern is irrelevant to future planning
Car thefts will definitely increase next month
Car thefts will decrease because police will be present at the parade

Correct answer: Car thefts will probably increase next month based on the observed pattern

Four consistent data points create a probable pattern, justifying a prediction of increased theft risk during the parade.

Question 74: An officer observes a person shoplifting merchandise valued at $50 from a store. This offense is classified under New York law as:

Petit larceny (Correct answer)
Robbery in the third degree
Burglary in the third degree
Grand larceny in the fourth degree

Correct answer: Petit larceny

Theft of property valued under $1,000 constitutes petit larceny (PL §155.25), a Class A misdemeanor.

Question 75: What action should an Auxiliary officer take upon discovering an unconscious person on the street?

Request EMS and regular police assistance immediately (Correct answer)
Attempt to wake the person by physical means
Transport the person to the nearest hospital
Wait for a regular officer to arrive before taking any action

Correct answer: Request EMS and regular police assistance immediately

The officer should immediately request EMS and regular police while staying with the unconscious person.

Question 76: 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
25 minutes (Correct answer)
35 minutes

Correct answer: 25 minutes

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

Question 77: An officer's base pay is $65,000 with a 4% annual raise. What is the new salary?

$68,200
$67,600 (Correct answer)
$69,000
$67,000

Correct answer: $67,600

$65,000 × 1.04 = $67,600 after the 4% raise.

Question 78: Which of the following best describes the relationship between Auxiliary Police Officers and regular NYPD officers during a joint patrol?

The senior auxiliary officer assumes command if no supervisor is present
Auxiliary officers rotate command with regular officers every hour
Auxiliary officers support and assist the regular officer who retains command authority (Correct answer)
Auxiliary officers have equal authority and can act independently

Correct answer: Auxiliary officers support and assist the regular officer who retains command authority

Regular NYPD officers retain command authority; auxiliary officers provide support and assistance.

Question 79: If 5 out of 25 reported crimes result in arrests, what is the arrest rate?

25%
20% (Correct answer)
30%
15%

Correct answer: 20%

5 ÷ 25 = 0.20 = 20% arrest rate.

Question 80: You are the first officer to arrive at the scene of a convenience store robbery. The clerk is shaken but unharmed and provides a description of the suspect who fled on foot. Another witness points down the street and says, "He went that way!" What should be your immediate priority?

Secure the crime scene to preserve evidence.
Immediately begin chasing the suspect in the direction the witness indicated.
Stay with the clerk to comfort them and get a more detailed statement.
Broadcast the suspect's description and direction of flight over the radio to responding units. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Broadcast the suspect's description and direction of flight over the radio to responding units.

The highest priority is officer and public safety, which is best achieved by disseminating critical information to other responding officers to establish a perimeter and aid in the search. This multiplies the effectiveness of the response and increases the chances of a safe apprehension. While securing the scene and caring for the victim are crucial, they can be done by subsequent arriving officers. An immediate solo pursuit is dangerous and may lead to a loss of the suspect and the crime scene.

Question 81: During a routine traffic stop, the driver becomes verbally aggressive and accuses you of pulling them over without cause. They refuse to provide their license and registration. What is the most appropriate next step?

Terminate the traffic stop and let the driver go to avoid a confrontation.
Explain that you will break their car window if they do not comply.
Calmly and professionally repeat your lawful order to provide the documents and explain the consequences of non-compliance, such as arrest for obstruction. (Correct answer)
Immediately remove the driver from the vehicle and place them under arrest for insubordination.

Correct answer: Calmly and professionally repeat your lawful order to provide the documents and explain the consequences of non-compliance, such as arrest for obstruction.

Maintaining professionalism, even when faced with hostility, is crucial. The best course of action is to de-escalate while clearly communicating your lawful authority and the potential consequences of their actions. This provides the driver with an opportunity to comply while establishing a clear record of a lawful order being given and refused if escalation becomes necessary. Immediate arrest might be premature without first clearly explaining the consequences. Threats are unprofessional and illegal. Terminating the stop abdicates your duty.

Question 82: 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 83: An officer memorizes the following phone number to call a witness: (718) 555-0293. What are the last four digits?

0239
0293 (Correct answer)
0923
0329

Correct answer: 0293

The last four digits of the witness's number are 0293.

Question 84: Officer Thompson is facing east and does an about-face. In which direction is she now facing?

North
South
West (Correct answer)
East

Correct answer: West

An about-face is a 180-degree turn, so from east the officer now faces west.

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

Checking for saved progress...

Exam Rules

You can skip questions and return to them later
Flag questions for review before submitting
No feedback shown until you submit the entire exam
Unanswered questions count as wrong — answer everything
10 pretest questions are mixed in and don't affect your score
Timer auto-submits when time runs out
Your progress is auto-saved every 30 seconds