NYC Correction Officer Eligibility Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply if I am not currently a NYC Resident?
Yes but at the date of appointment, you must be a resident of the City of New York or of Nassau, Westchester, Suffolk, Orange, Rockland or Putnam counties.
 
Do I need to attend a specific college or university?
No, however the college or university you attend must be accredited.(If you are currently enrolled at John Jay College for Criminal Justice, please click here for information about our CEEDS Cadet Program.)

I don’t have enough college credits. Can I still take the exam?
Yes, you can take the exam, however you need to have 39 college credits before entering the Correction Academy. If you have Military or Law Enforcement background, you may also be eligible.

Can I use FEMA credits toward the credit requirement?
Yes, NYC DOC does accept FEMA credits however they must be transcribed by an accredited college or university. Click HERE for more information.

Is there a GPA requirement?
There is no GPA requirement.

I have a misdemeanor, do I still qualify?
This will vary depending on the nature of the misdemeanor, your age at the time of the offense, and other factors. Please contact our Applicant Investigations Unit (AIU) for additional information about your specific circumstances.

How do I get a waiver for the exam?
Currently, the exam fee is $68. Please click here to review information in regarding fee waivers.  

I’ve passed the exam, now what? What are the next steps in the application process?
Please see our Candidate Journey  to see the full process from Candidate to Correction Officer.


What does the Physical Agility test consist of?
The Physical Agility test is a test of your endurance consisting of a series of tasks, such as running and heavy lifting. Here’s what you need to know: https://youtu.be/jk9mHNDgRnI

How long after you take the exam do you find out the results?
You will be given your score immediately upon completion of the exam. After that time, DCAS will release a list 4-6 months after the exam date.

I took the exam and have not received my results, who should I contact?
You should contact DCAS at (212) 669-1357.
 
Who do I contact to find out my list number?
To find out your list number you should contact DCAS at (212) 669-1357.

I received a low score, should I retake the exam?
If you passed the exam with a score of 70 or more, we advise you not to retake the exam.
 
Where can I find study materials to help me prepare?
Click here  to learn about the types of questions you will find on the exam. These are the recommended exam prep guides:

•         Barron’s- Correction Officer Exam
•         Arco- Correction Officer Exam
•         Trivium Test Prep- Correction Officer
•         Mometrix Test Preparation- Correction Officer Exam: Secrets Study Guide

When is the next exam?
Please continue to check our website or visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram to see when registration will open for the next exam.
 
Is there an age limit to become a NYC Correction Officer?
You must be at least 17 ½ years old to take the test, and must be 21 to enter the Correction Academy. There is no other age requirement.

Do I need a driver’s license to be a Correction Officer?
You must possess a New York State learner's permit at the time of appointment and must obtain a valid driver license from the State of New York prior to graduating from the Department of Correction Academy.

If I have points on my license or driving infractions, will that affect my application?
If you have moving violations, license suspension(s) or an accident record, you may be disqualified but this isn’t automatic. Please be sure to share these details with your investigator.

When can I next see the DOC Recruitment Team out in the community?
Please visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram to see when we will be in your community.