California Highway Patrol: PAT, Psyc, and QAP

[reils49]

Well, I just got a letter today from CHP inviting me to the Physical Ability Test, Psychological Written exam, and the QAP Interview in March. Im not to worried about the first two, but the interview.... thats another story.

Where do the interviews take place (my letter doesnt specify). Can anyone shed some light on how the interview ususally goes? And who actually sits on the interview panel? You probably can't tell me, but if you can, what kinds of things are they going to ask And what should I bring to the interview?

Thanks.

[leif]

Well, I just got a letter today from CHP inviting me to the Physical Ability Test, Psychological Written exam, and the QAP Interview in March. Im not to worried about the first two, but the interview.... thats another story.

Where do the interviews take place (my letter doesnt specify). Can anyone shed some light on how the interview ususally goes? And who actually sits on the interview panel? You probably can't tell me, but if you can, what kinds of things are they going to ask And what should I bring to the interview?

Thanks.

After you pass the PAT they'll give you the details on the interview. Its probably not too far from the PAT location. I'm sure its different for each division, but mine was at a hotel down the street from the school I took the PAT at.

I had two people on my interview, one was a Sgt, one was a citizen that worked for the department. I doubt that's how it is for everyone though.

As for the questions, its a job interview, what do you think they'll ask you? Without spilling too many beans, research the department (read everything on the website you can to learn about it), and be prepared to talk about yourself and what you've done.

They'll instruct you on what to bring and what not to bring at the PAT. I don't think I brought anything.

Good luck.

Oh, search through www.chpforums.com too, tons of good info there.

[ask80]

i also had a panel consisting of a sgt and citizen. very basic questions and scenarios.

[Carl]

I was lucky, it was all Texas DPS State Troopers when I went to my interview.

One Lieutenant, one Sgt, and 3 Troopers.

Didn't have any civilians on the board.

[SgtCHP]

Become familiar with this study guide:

http://www.chp.ca.gov/recruiting/docs/asg.pdf

[reils49]

Thanks guys.

[reils49]

I've got another CHP question:

I know that when you complete the academy, assignments are based on the "needs of the department". But do they just stick you in randmom places, or do you have any input on where you work? And generally how long do you have to work at your first station, if you arent happy there and want to transfer? And are there some areas that are harder to get assigned?

[reils49]

What are the odds of San Diego?

[leif]

we had 2 go to san diego and 8 to el cajon from my class. but its different every class. now if you wanted say, central la, then your odds would be good.

[reils49]

Leif, how many graduated with your class?

[SgtCHP]

May I recommend that you go to http://CHPForums.com ? At that site you will find all of your questions answered. There are always officers in that site that work background and recruitment. They can tell you what the most popular areas of assignment are; when the next class is going to start; etc.

There are a number of factors that determine where you will be assigned. Basically, those who are married, own a home and have children, will get their first choice nearest their home. Those who are married with children go next. Those unmarried but own a home is next, etc. When two graduates are equal in all categories, their SS number determines who gets what.

Once again, go to this site and review its contents. A number of questions you have may be answered within.

http://www.chp.ca.gov/recruiting/officer.html

Feel free to PM me if you have another question.

[leif]

143 I think. Started with 189. Check your PMs.