PIT PIT Training & Certification Requirements 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the minimum number of training hours typically required before an officer can become PIT certified?
- 4 hours
- 8 hours
- 16 hours (Correct answer)
- 24 hours
Correct answer: 16 hours
Most law enforcement agencies require a minimum of 16 hours of hands-on PIT training before officers are certified to use the technique in the field.
Question 2: Which component is considered the most critical part of initial PIT certification training?
- Written examination
- Hands-on vehicle maneuver practice (Correct answer)
- Video review of PIT incidents
- Classroom legal instruction
Correct answer: Hands-on vehicle maneuver practice
Hands-on vehicle maneuver practice is the most critical component because it develops the muscle memory and vehicle control skills needed to safely execute PIT in the field.
Question 3: How often must most law enforcement officers recertify in PIT technique to remain authorized to use it?
- Every 6 months
- Annually (Correct answer)
- Every 2 years
- Every 3 years
Correct answer: Annually
Annual recertification is the most common standard to ensure officers maintain proficiency and stay current with any updated policies or techniques.
Question 4: What type of vehicle is typically used during PIT certification training exercises?
- Officers' personal vehicles
- Decommissioned patrol vehicles or dedicated training vehicles (Correct answer)
- Any available agency fleet vehicle
- Rental vehicles
Correct answer: Decommissioned patrol vehicles or dedicated training vehicles
Decommissioned patrol vehicles or purpose-built training vehicles are used to simulate real pursuit conditions while minimizing risk to in-service fleet units.
Question 5: What authorization is typically required before a field officer can apply PIT during an actual pursuit?
- Self-authorization based on threat level
- Supervisor or dispatch authorization (Correct answer)
- District attorney approval
- Partner officer approval
Correct answer: Supervisor or dispatch authorization
Most agency policies require supervisory or dispatch authorization before a PIT maneuver is deployed, ensuring command oversight of the force decision.
Question 6: Which of the following is a prerequisite commonly required before enrolling in PIT certification training?
- SWAT team membership
- Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC) completion (Correct answer)
- Sergeant rank or above
- Five years of patrol experience
Correct answer: Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC) completion
Completion of an Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC) is a standard prerequisite because it establishes the foundational high-speed driving skills needed for PIT training.
What is the minimum number of training hours typically required before an officer can become PIT certified?