Interested in a Career in Law Enforcement? Department of Civil Service Now Accepting Exam Applications

The New York State Department of Civil Service today announced that the application period is now open for New York State’s entry-level law enforcement civil service exam. The exam is for interested, qualified applicants seeking a position throughout the Office of State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the State University of New York. Qualified candidates can apply online until 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 9, 2026, to take the exam. There is no cost as all state exam application fees are waived through December 2027. The exam is scheduled to be held this fall.

“One of the top priorities under Governor Hochul’s leadership is public safety, and for those ready to make a difference in their community, a career in law enforcement offers New Yorkers a commendable opportunity,” Department of Civil Service Commissioner and Civil Service President Timothy Hogues said. “The Office of State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and SUNY are looking for individuals to protect our residents, students, employees, visitors, history and resources. Apply today for the entry-level law enforcement exam and take the first steps toward a role that not only protects our state but empowers all New Yorkers.”

Candidates interested in entry-level law enforcement positions within state government must meet the minimum qualifications per the examination announcement and complete the following two online applications: Application-Candidate Information and online Minimum Qualification Evaluator (MQE). Both of these steps must be completed by Sept. 9 at this link to be eligible to sit for the multiple-choice test offered in the fall. If candidates do not complete the first two steps, they will be unable to sit for the exam. All candidates who are qualified to take the New York State entry-level law-enforcement exam will receive an admission notice by mail approximately one week prior to the date of the written test. The admission notice provides the candidate with details about the date, time and location they are scheduled to appear, along with other pertinent information.

The entry-level law enforcement exam will fill the following titles within each agency:

• Parks - Park Police Officer Trainee

• SUNY - University Police Officer 1

Prospective park police officer and university police officer candidates up to 42 years old may take the written test, which increased from 35 years old previously, to reflect changing demographics, broaden opportunities and increase the potential candidate pool. All prospective candidates must meet additional requirements before appointment as outlined on the Career Opportunities in New York State Law Enforcement webpage.

The exam also offers Park Police Officers and University Police Officers with proficiency in Spanish to participate. While the online exam is in English, those with proficiency in another language will be required to pass a language proficiency exam at the time of hire.

DCS estimates that approximately 100 entry-level law enforcement positions statewide will be filled over the next year.

State University of New York Chancellor John B. King Jr. said, “The safety of our students is of the utmost importance at SUNY, and why it is important to have a dedicated community police team on our campuses. The civil service exams help us find talented individuals that protect and serve our students, as well as the neighboring communities across New York State, and we encourage all interested New Yorkers to take advantage of this opportunity.”

New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Kathy Moser said, “Every day, New York State Park Police safeguard our state parks, historic sites, trails, and public lands while helping ensure the safety and enjoyment of millions of visitors. Those seeking a rewarding career in public service, law enforcement, and environmental stewardship are encouraged to apply and join a team dedicated to protecting New York’s natural and historic treasures.”

New York State will be promoting the exam across social media and developed a video and a dedicated webpage to help attract candidates to apply for the exam, which also includes a test guide to prepare applicants and additional information. Please see https://www.cs.ny.gov/police/.

Since taking office, Governor Hochul has implemented several initiatives to strengthen New York’s public workforce. In February 2025, Governor Hochul launched the “You’re Hired” initiative to recruit talented displaced federal public sector workers into State service. In 2024, the state launched the NY HELPS program, which has been extended through June 2028 and temporarily waives civil service exam requirements for many other job vacancies; the program has resulted in more than 60,000 appointments in both state and local governments. In 2023, Governor Hochul extended 12 weeks of fully paid parental leave to the entire state workforce for the first time in state history.

Governor Hochul also announced in October 2025 that the Department of Civil Service updated qualifications for approximately 800 entry- and promotion-level civil service titles to allow for consideration of equivalent experience as an alternative to college degrees when evaluating jobseekers.

Additionally, the state created 10 Centers for Careers in Government, offering job seekers guidance on civil service systems and career opportunities. The Governor has also lifted the state employment hiring freeze and expanded opportunities for individuals and veterans with disabilities to further support the public workforce.

The Department of Civil Service also ran successful multi-media campaigns over the past two years promoting the wide-ranging career opportunities available in New York State public service; the campaign was estimated to have reached 93 percent of New Yorkers aged 18 and older. The Department also partnered with New York’s first Chief Disability Officer to deliver a campaign that highlighted opportunities for New Yorkers with disabilities.

To learn more about working for the State of New York and how to take the next step in pursuing and furthering a rewarding career, please visit the Department of Civil Service website and follow the Department on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.