Testing

Civil Service Testing is usually conducted 4 times a month.  The Civil Service Test consists of a written exam and a physical agility test which follows the Sooper Test Standards. Both tests are completed the same day. After applying, you will be required to attend a test date within 2 months.

The written portion of the test is comprised of four categories:

• Basic Education
• Interpersonal Skills
• Self-Awareness
• Practical Intelligence

Tips for the written exam.

• Base all of your answers on the information and guidelines provided in the test.
• Knowledge of police procedures is not required to answer the questions correctly.
• Attempt to answer every question. If you are unsure of the correct answer, mark the one which you think is the best.
• Read carefully and follow the directions given in the booklet.
• Do not spend too much time on any one question.
• No question is meant to be a “trick” or “catch” question.
• Interpret words according to their generally accepted meaning.
• Check carefully to be sure that you have not skipped any questions.
• Plan your time so that you complete the examination within the time allowed. You will be told when to start and stop. If you have extra time, check your work.
• Relax and work steadily.

Physical Agility Testing (PAT) – Cooper Test

MNPD utilizes the Cooper Test in order to evaluate entry level standards.  Applicants must pass 3 of the 4 events to move forward in the hiring process.

Push-up Test:

• • • This portion of the test requires candidates to complete 21correct push-ups. Candidates will start in the up / plank position. For a correct push-up to be counted, the candidate must go from the up position to the down position with their arms forming a 90-degree angle and returning to the up position with their arms extended while maintaining proper form. Rests may only be taken in the up position.

Sit-up Test:

• • • This portion of the test requires candidates to complete 15 correct sit-ups. Candidates will start the test lying on their back, knees bent, feet flat on the floor, hands interlaced & held behind the head. The up position is obtained when elbows touch the knees. The down position is obtained when shoulder blades touch the floor. That is correct one sit-up. Rests may only be taken in the up position.

300 Meter Run:

• • • To begin the test, candidates will gather at the starting line. At the signal, they will run as fast as they can until they reach the finish line. Candidates must stay on the course described.

1.5 Mile Run:

• • • To begin the test, candidates will gather at the starting line. At the signal, they will run as fast as they can until they reach the finish line. Candidates must stay on the course described.

Tips for the (PAT) – Cooper Test

• Applicants should keep in mind these are the entrance standards to proceed in the applicant process.  You will be required to pass academy graduation standards before completing the MNPD Training Academy.
• Applicants should refer to our instructional video for proper technique, course overview, and safety.
• Applicants should be aware that all stations of the Physical Agility Test will be conducted in succession with only a few minutes of rest between each.
• Applicants should wear outdoor athletic shoes and clothing.
• Applicants should practice training outdoors in various weather conditions and terrain prior to testing. Training outdoors is different than training indoors or just on a treadmill.

Passing Score

Applicants must have 6 or more points to continue in the application process.

Written test score values:

• 94 – 100 = 5 points
• 86 – 93 = 4 points
• 78 – 85 = 3 points
• 70 – 77 = 2 points

Anything below 70 is zero points. The applicant cannot proceed.

Applicants must pass at least 3 of the 4 Physical Agility Test events to move forward in the hiring process.