NYSP Practice Test Video Answers

1. C
The minimum age requirement to apply for the New York State Police is 20 years old at the time of application. This ensures applicants have reached a level of maturity suitable for law enforcement work.

2. C
Applicants need 60 college credits (approximately 2 years of college) as an alternative to military service. This educational requirement ensures candidates have post-secondary education experience.

3. D
There is no maximum age limit for NYSP applicants. Age discrimination laws have eliminated maximum age requirements, though applicants must still meet all physical and other standards.

4. B
The New York State Police was established in 1917, making it one of the oldest state police agencies in the United States. It was created to provide law enforcement in rural areas.

5. C
The Basic School training program is approximately 26 weeks (about 6 months) in duration. This comprehensive training covers all aspects of law enforcement work.

6. D
Foreign language proficiency is not a component of the NYSP written examination. The exam focuses on reading comprehension, memorization, visualization, and reasoning skills relevant to police work.

7. C
The minimum vision requirement without correction is 20/100 in each eye. This allows for some natural vision impairment while ensuring basic visual capability.

8. A
The New York State Police Academy is located in Albany, the state capital. All recruits must attend training at this facility.

9. B
The probationary period for newly appointed State Troopers is 1 year. During this time, performance is closely monitored and evaluated.

10. B
Applicants must possess a valid driver’s license at the time of appointment. This is essential as driving is a fundamental requirement of the job.

11. C
A swimming test is not part of the NYSP Physical Ability Test. The test includes a 1.5-mile run, push-ups, sit-ups, and other exercises, but not swimming.

12. A
The minimum educational requirement is a high school diploma or GED equivalent. However, additional college credits or military service may also be required.

13. C
Male applicants must complete at least 29 push-ups in the Physical Ability Test. This tests upper body strength necessary for the job.

14. B
Starting salary for recruits during academy training is typically in the $43,000-$48,000 range, though this can vary based on current contract agreements and may increase after graduation.

15. D
While polygraph examinations may be used in some circumstances, they are not a standard mandatory component for all applicants. Criminal history, credit, and social media reviews are standard.

16. C
The mandatory retirement age for New York State Troopers is 62 years old. This is set by state law and pension regulations.

17. B
The oral interview board typically consists of 3 members, usually including current or former law enforcement personnel who evaluate the candidate’s communication skills and suitability.

18. B
A felony conviction is an automatic disqualification from NYSP employment. This is a standard law enforcement hiring requirement across most agencies.

19. C
Males under 30 must complete the 1.5-mile run in 14 minutes 15 seconds or less. This time requirement ensures adequate cardiovascular fitness.

20. C
Pilot training is not part of the basic recruit training. While NYSP has an aviation unit, pilot training is specialized and not provided to all recruits.

21. B
Applicants must be New York State residents at the time of appointment. There is no requirement for how long they must have lived in the state before applying.

22. B
The NYSP uses semi-automatic pistols as the standard service weapon. The agency transitioned from revolvers to semi-automatic pistols to match modern law enforcement standards.

23. C
Female applicants must complete at least 38 sit-ups within one minute. This tests core strength important for physical confrontations and general fitness.

24. A
With correction (glasses or contacts), vision must be correctable to 20/20 in both eyes. This ensures officers can see clearly when performing their duties.

25. C
The New York State Police is divided into 11 troops (Troop A through Troop T, with some letters not used). Each troop covers specific geographic areas of the state.

26. B
Illegal drug use within recent years is a valid reason for disqualification. The NYSP has strict policies regarding past drug use to maintain integrity and credibility.

27. C
A minimum of 60 college credits is required for applicants without military service. This ensures candidates have some post-secondary education.

28. B
The written exam is scored on a scaled score basis with ranking. Candidates are ranked based on their scores, and appointments are made from this ranked list.

29. B
Recruits are required to live on campus during academy training. This immersive environment promotes discipline, camaraderie, and focus on training.

30. C
Criminal history and drug use receive the most scrutiny in the hiring process. These factors directly relate to the integrity and trustworthiness required for law enforcement.

31. B
Physical fitness standards are generally based on the 40th percentile for age and gender. This ensures a reasonable fitness level without being overly restrictive.

32. D
The NYSP eligibility list is typically valid for 4 years. Candidates on the list may be called for appointment during this period based on their ranking and agency needs.

33. C
The promotional system is based on both examination scores and performance evaluations. This combination ensures that promotions reward both knowledge and practical job performance.

34. B
The primary purpose of the psychological evaluation is to assess suitability for law enforcement work, including stress management, decision-making ability, and emotional stability.

35. A
New York State Troopers are required to complete continuing education and training every year. This ensures they stay current with laws, procedures, and best practices.

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