FAQs

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When is the next Addison Police exam?

We do periodic Saturday tests, but in order to better accommodate our applicant's work/school schedules, our testing is usually by appointment. Please contact 972-450-7100 or email policecareers@addisontx.gov for more information and to schedule a test.

Is Addison a civil service department?

No, the Addison Police Department is an at-will agency.

Do you offer extra points for military service?

Since we are not Civil Service, we do not offer Military Service Points.

Can I be hired if I have speeding tickets, criminal history or drug use in my past?

Applicants must meet the licensing requirements set by TCOLE. All traffic tickets and drug usage instances are evaluated on a case by case basis.

How can I study for your test?

Police applicants may purchase a test preparation guide directly from the test provider by visiting PACT Testing Guide.

The written examination is scheduled by appointment only. To schedule an exam, please contact 972-450-7100 or email policecareers@addisontx.gov.

How is your current patrol shift set up?

Patrol Officers work 12-hour shifts. Shifts are currently Sunday - Tuesday or Wednesday - Friday; each shift works every other Saturday.

How long is field training?

Field Training consists of multiple phases: Administrative Phase, Phases 1/2/3, Traffic Phase, and Ghost Phase.  Most new officers complete Field Training within 18-20 weeks.

How long is the hiring process?

It depends on a lot of variables; your availability and the availability of your references and previous employers (the background investigation is usually what takes the longest!).  Most people can expect a 3-4 month process.

How long until I can apply for a secondary assignment? (criminal investigations, SWAT, etc.)?

Most specialty assignments require at least two years in patrol or two years of Law Enforcement experience.

Is there a Physical Agility Test?

Currently, the Addison Police Department does not use an obstacle course or Cooper test for its applicants. Instead, we have a physical exam based on Texas DPS standard rowing test.

Can I have tattoos?

Visible tattoos are generally allowed in uniform under the following restrictions:

  1. Tattoos on the head, face, neck, and hands are generally prohibited.
  2. Tattoos on the arms must stop at the wrist, and not be visible when wearing long sleeves (not including wedding band type tattoos).
  3. If deemed offensive, tattoos may be ordered to remain covered.

Which police academy do you send applicants to?

We use the Denton Public Safety Training Center's Academy (Denton), North Central Texas Council of Government's Regional Police Academy (Arlington), and Collin College Police Academy (McKinney).