About the Correction Officer Exam
Overview
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A Correction Officer is responsible for the security, safety, and well-being of criminal offenders in correctional camps and sate correctional facilities. The exam is one phase of the complete selection process. Most states require applicants for such positions as Correction Officer Trainee, Correction Officer, and Detention Officer to take this exam.
Many jurisdictions also offer a promotion exam for those who seek a higher position within the field.
Test Dates
Most civil service exams are administered as needed. Check with the Federal Bureau of Prisons, your State Department of Correction, and/or local private prison corporations for exam dates and application deadlines.
Test Locations
Locations vary. Check with the Federal Bureau of Prisons, your State Department of Correction, and/or local private prison corporations for the location of your exam.
Test Structure
The Correction Officer exam is typically 3-hours long and includes 100 multiple-choice questions. In most states the exam is written, but some states require a video-based exam. You should expect the exam to test your knowledge, skills, and abilities in such areas as:
- Observation and memory
- Reasoning and decision-making
- Visual and spatial orientation
- Concepts in inmate security and officer-inmate relations
Scoring
Most civil service exams are scored on a scale of 100, with 70 as the usual passing mark. On most exams, you will get one point for each correct answer and no credit for a wrong answer or for a question that you did not answer. This is not the case on all civil service exams. Make sure you check with the testing agency prior to taking the exam for complete details.
