NYPD Exam - Free Practice With Full Solutions & Experts Tips 2026
Last Updated: January 8, 2026.
The NYPD Exam is key for aspiring NYC police officers. It tests essential cognitive skills needed for the job, and its comprehensive, timed format makes it challenging.
On this page, we walk you through everything you need to know about the NYPD exam, providing detailed insights along with free NYPD exam questions and answers to help jump-start your preparation.
Upcoming NYPD Exam Dates
February 2, 2026 – February 7, 2026 | March 2, 2026 – March 7, 2026 | April 6, 2026 – April 11, 2026 | May 4, 2026 – May 9, 2026 | June 1, 2026 – June 6, 2026 | July 6, 2026 – July 11, 2026 |
NYPD Police Exam Practice Test
Like many other Civil Service and Police Exams, the NYPD Exam contains several types of question: Memorization, Spatial Orientation, Written Comprehension, Written Expression, Information Ordering, Inductive Reasoning, Deductive Reasoning, Visualization, Problem Sensitivity, etc.
Memorization Questions
Let's start with the Memorization questions. This section, considered the most challenging part of the test, gives you 10 minutes to study a photo's details without taking notes or revisiting the image. The questions will focus on the most basic aspects of the picture.
Job Relevance: A Police Officer might use this skill to identify individuals wanted for questioning, making it a valuable skill in daily activities.
INSTRUCTIONS: Study the image below very carefully for five minutes. You will be asked detailed questions about this image throughout the following questions. Once you are instructed to turn the page, you will not be allowed to look back at the photograph. (In this practice test we suggest that you zoom in and look very carefully at the picture)
Question #1
How many bicycles can be seen clearly/ fully in the photo? (Not cut, cropped, or hidden)
The answer is 1, although there are two bicycles, one of them is hidden by a car and can’t be seen fully. (The orange arrow is for the bicycle, and the green arrow is for the hidden bicycle.)
Question #2
What is between the two U.S.A flags?
Question #3
How many people are visible in the photo? (Not cut, cropped, or hidden)
The correct answer is 3. Three people are fully visible in the picture, and another person is partially hidden behind the person walking next to them. (The orange arrow is for the visible people and the green arrow is for the hidden person.)
💡Tip: As you view the photo, don't try to remember every single detail, as this can be overwhelming. Instead, focus on key elements that stand out, such as unique features, patterns, or distinctive objects. Try to create a mental "map" of the photo based on these key elements. When the viewing time ends, take a few seconds to consolidate your mental image before attempting to answer the questions. This selective approach can help you recall important information efficiently and improve your accuracy in memorization questions.
For more solving tips and dozens of practice questions, we invite you to check our comprehensive NYPD Exam PrepPack.
Spatial Orientation Questions
Next, we'll explore Spatial Orientation questions. This part of the exam evaluates your relative (left-right) and absolute (north-south) directional skills, along with reading comprehension, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities. Typically, you'll be given a map and asked to identify the quickest route between two points. You may also need to pinpoint the last known direction or location of an object or person based on a written scenario.
Job Relevance: A Police Officer might employ this skill while patrolling their designated precinct, whether on foot or by vehicle.
Review the map below and respond to the following questions.
An arrow on the street indicates that traffic along the entire road is only allowed to travel in the direction the arrow points.
💡Tip: One of the best tips for specific map-based questions is quickly identifying key landmarks and paths. For written scenarios of spatial orientation, visualize the scene and use directional cues in the text to orient yourself. Always double-check your initial instinct against the map or scenario details.
Master the NYPD Police Exam
The NYPD Police Exam is a unique law enforcement entrance exam that places a strong emphasis on memorization, spatial orientation, and map-reading skills, abilities you’ll rely on every day as an NYPD police officer.
To pass the NYPD written exam, candidates must demonstrate sharp attention to detail and strong navigation skills.
Our NYPD Exam PrepPack is specifically designed to help you prepare for the NYPD police exam. It includes realistic NYPD practice test questions, full-length exam simulations, and detailed map-reading exercises that closely mirror the actual NYPD exam format.
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With our NYPD test prep, you’re not just preparing to pass the NYPD exam - you’re preparing to start your career as an NYPD police officer.
Written Comprehension
Now, we'll move on to another section you'll encounter in the assessment - Written Comprehension questions. In this section, you will be presented with several passages to test your ability to read and understand written information. After each passage, you will be asked a series of questions about the details of the text.
Job Relevance: This ability may be used by a Police Officer when reading policies, laws, and other legal documents, as well as traffic signs, traffic violations reports, etc.
Answer the following question regarding the current information:
The latest public health campaign has sparked debate due to its graphic representation of the harmful effects of excessive sugar consumption. The campaign features images of severely decayed teeth and other health issues directly linked to high sugar intake. While the campaign has gained significant traction on social media and raised awareness about the dangers of sugar, it has also faced criticism. Critics argue that such graphic imagery can be distressing and counterproductive, potentially leading individuals to ignore or downplay the severity of their own health issues related to sugar consumption.
💡Tip: The best tip for specific reading comprehension questions is to read each passage carefully, focusing on the main idea and key details. Before looking at the questions, briefly summarize the passage in your mind. This helps in recalling details when answering questions.
Information Ordering
Information Ordering is a key section of many police written exams, including the NYPD Police Exam. This test section measures your ability to correctly sequence rules, actions, and steps - an essential skill for law enforcement officers who must follow procedures accurately and in order.
In Information Ordering questions, you may be asked to arrange letters, numbers, images, words, sentences, procedures, or mathematical and logical operations into the correct sequence. Success in this section depends on attention to detail, logical reasoning, and your ability to process information quickly and accurately under exam conditions.
Job Relevance: This ability may be used by a Police Officer when storing found, seized, or recovered property.
💡Tip: Sometimes, a glance at the answer choices can save you valuable time. For example, if the options show only two possible items to start the sequence, you’ve already narrowed your decision down to those two. Look for these types of clues in the answers to speed up your process.
Inductive Reasoning
Inductive Reasoning is a core section of many police written exams, including the NYPD Police Exam. This section evaluates your ability to analyze scenarios, apply offense classifications, and determine which crime was committed based on the information provided. These skills are critical for law enforcement officers when interpreting incidents and making sound judgments in the field.
Inductive Reasoning questions often present short case scenarios, witness statements, or situational descriptions. You must apply established rules and definitions to new situations and decide which conclusion or statement is most accurate. Success in this section depends on logical thinking, attention to detail, and the ability to evaluate evidence objectively under exam conditions.
Job Relevance: This ability may be used by a Police Officer when investigating specific offenses.
💡Tip: Success on these questions depends on a systematic workflow. Once you've read the data and the distractors, pre-define your search strategy. For instance, decide to "scan column by column to find the right header before looking for the row." This mental roadmap helps you stay focused, avoid distractions, and eliminate careless mistakes while saving time.
Practice Makes Perfect!
Our comprehensive NYPD Exam PrepPack equips candidates with the necessary tools to excel in the rigorous selection and hiring process of the New York City Police Department.
Aspiring police officers aiming to join the ranks of New York's finest police force understand the importance of acing the police officer written exam and navigating the citywide administrative services seamlessly.
Our meticulously curated resources simulate the actual exam environment, providing invaluable practice questions and tips to ensure candidates are fully prepared to showcase their abilities.
From mastering the written entrance exam to understanding the required steps in the hiring process, we are committed to guiding you every step of the way.
Explore our resources beginning today and take the first important step towards becoming a part of New York City's esteemed police department.
- Full Test Simulation
- 6 Deductive Reasoning Tests & Guide
- 5 Inductive Reasoning Tests & Guide
- 2 Memorization Tests & Guide
- 3 Visualization Tests
- 9 Information Ordering Tests
- 2 Problem Sensitivity Tests
- 10 Reading Comprehension Tests & Guide
- 3 Spatial Orientation Tests
Deductive Reasoning
Next, we'll tackle Deductive Reasoning in the NYPD exam. This section tests your ability to logically apply rules to specific problems and includes tasks like table analysis, picture matching, and detailed list review.
Example: This skill is crucial for a Police Officer when determining the appropriate dispatch code based on the situation.
Question #16
Impact of Telecommuting on Urban Traffic
With the rise of telecommuting, many employees are choosing to work from home, which has led to a noticeable reduction in urban traffic congestion. A recent study shows that cities with a high rate of telecommuting have experienced a significant decrease in peak hour traffic jams. The study also notes that telecommuting not only reduces the stress of commuting for individuals but also positively impacts the environment by reducing carbon emissions from vehicles. However, this shift has also led to a decrease in public transportation usage, which is a concern for the sustainability of these services.
Which of the following statements is most correct regarding the impact of telecommuting on urban areas?
With the rise of telecommuting, many employees are choosing to work from home, which has led to a noticeable reduction in urban traffic congestion. A recent study shows that cities with a high rate of telecommuting have experienced a significant decrease in peak hour traffic jams. The study also notes that telecommuting not only reduces the stress of commuting for individuals but also positively impacts the environment by reducing carbon emissions from vehicles. However, this shift has also led to a decrease in public transportation usage, which is a concern for the sustainability of these services.
Which of the following statements is most correct regarding the impact of telecommuting on urban areas?
- Telecommuting has increased the use of public transportation.
- Telecommuting has had no significant impact on the environment.
- Urban areas with high rates of telecommuting have seen a decrease in traffic congestion.
- Telecommuting leads to increased stress for individuals.
The correct answer is (C). According to the text, “cities with a high rate of telecommuting have experienced a significant decrease in peak hour traffic jams”.
(A) Is incorrect because the text states that there has been a decrease in public transportation usage due to telecommuting.
(B) Is incorrect because the study notes that telecommuting positively impacts the environment by reducing carbon emissions.
(D) Is incorrect as the text states that telecommuting reduces the stress of commuting for individuals.
Question #17
Renewable Energy Adoption in Developing Countries
Developing countries are increasingly adopting renewable energy sources to meet their power needs. The shift is driven by the declining cost of renewable energy technologies and the need to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels. A report indicates that solar and wind power are becoming more prevalent in these regions, leading to improved energy security and job creation in the renewable energy sector. However, the report also highlights the challenges faced by these countries, such as the need for substantial investment in infrastructure and the intermittency of renewable energy sources.
Which of the following statements is most correct regarding renewable energy adoption in developing countries?
Developing countries are increasingly adopting renewable energy sources to meet their power needs. The shift is driven by the declining cost of renewable energy technologies and the need to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels. A report indicates that solar and wind power are becoming more prevalent in these regions, leading to improved energy security and job creation in the renewable energy sector. However, the report also highlights the challenges faced by these countries, such as the need for substantial investment in infrastructure and the intermittency of renewable energy sources.
Which of the following statements is most correct regarding renewable energy adoption in developing countries?
- Renewable energy adoption is decreasing due to its high cost.
- Developing countries are not interested in renewable energy due to its intermittency.
- Solar and wind power are becoming more prevalent in developing countries.
- Renewable energy has not led to any job creation in developing countries.
The correct answer is (C). According to the text, “solar and wind power are becoming more prevalent in these regions”.
(A) Is incorrect because the report mentions the declining cost of renewable energy technologies as a driving factor for its adoption.
(B) Is incorrect as the interest in renewable energy is indicated, despite the challenge of intermittency.
(D) Is incorrect because the text states that the adoption of renewable energy has led to job creation in the renewable energy sector.
Question #18
Effects of Diet on Health
Recent research has shown a strong correlation between diet and health. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in processed foods and sugars, are linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. The study further emphasizes that regular consumption of fast food and sugary drinks is associated with a higher risk of these diseases. Nutritionists recommend a balanced diet and regular exercise for maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases.
Which of the following statements is most correct regarding the effects of diet on health?
Recent research has shown a strong correlation between diet and health. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in processed foods and sugars, are linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. The study further emphasizes that regular consumption of fast food and sugary drinks is associated with a higher risk of these diseases. Nutritionists recommend a balanced diet and regular exercise for maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases.
Which of the following statements is most correct regarding the effects of diet on health?
- Eating fast food regularly has no impact on the risk of chronic diseases.
- Diets low in fruits and vegetables have been linked to a higher risk of chronic diseases.
- Nutritionists recommend a diet high in processed foods for good health.
- There is no correlation between diet and health.
The correct answer is (B). According to the text, “Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in processed foods and sugars, are linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases”.
(A) Is incorrect because the text states that regular consumption of fast food is associated with a higher risk of chronic diseases.
(C) Is incorrect as nutritionists recommend a balanced diet, not one high in processed foods.
(D) Is incorrect because the text clearly indicates a strong correlation between diet and health.
💡Tip: For solving deductive reasoning questions effectively, focus on understanding the general rule or principle first, then apply it logically to the specific situation presented in the question. Deductive reasoning moves from a general rule to specific examples. Ensure that you clearly understand the rule or law given in the question, and then methodically apply it to the scenarios or choices provided. This approach will help you avoid assumptions or biases and lead you to a logical conclusion based on the given premises. Remember, in deductive reasoning, if the premises are true and you apply them correctly, your conclusion should also be true.
For more practice questions, expert tips, and test simulations, check our NYPD Exam PrepPack.
Visualization
Next in the NYPD exam is the Visualization section. This section tests your ability to recognize objects, including diagrams, geometric shapes, floor plans, and human faces, even after they have been altered or repositioned.
Example: This skill is vital for a Police Officer searching for individuals wanted for arrest or questioning, especially when these individuals may have altered their appearance.
Question #19
On the left is a portrait of a suspect. On the right are four different portraits. Out of the four, only one is the suspect. Assuming no plastic surgery or drastic changes to basic facial features have been performed and only superficial features (such as hair and/or glasses) have changed, choose the portrait that is most likely to be the suspect.
The answer is B.
This type of question can be slightly confusing. We recommend that you begin by eliminating the choices least likely to be the answer and then focus on the portraits more similar to that of the suspect. In this question we can see that A has the wrong eyes, C has the wrong nose and D has a different mouth from the portrait we need, therefore B is the answer.
Question #20
On the left a portrait of a suspect is presented. On the right are four different portraits. Out of the four, only one is not the suspect. Assuming no plastic surgery or drastic changes to basic facial features have been performed and only superficial features (such as hair and/or glasses) have changed, choose the portrait that is most likely not the suspect.
The answer is B.
B has a different nose in comparison to the suspect.
💡Tip: For solving visualization questions effectively, focus on maintaining strong spatial awareness and a keen eye for detail. Pay close attention to how objects are oriented and relate to each other, and note any subtle changes in position, shape, or appearance. Developing a mental image of the original state can also be helpful for comparison. This approach will aid in accurately identifying objects that have been altered or repositioned.
For more practice questions, expert tips, and test simulations, check our NYPD Exam PrepPack.
Problem Sensitivity
We'll now look at Problem Sensitivity, the final question type in your Police exam. This section evaluates your ability to spot issues across various police-related scenarios, such as problematic testimonies, procedural inconsistencies, or suspicious details at a crime scene.
Example: This skill is crucial for a Police Officer when apprehending suspects or assisting crime victims.
Read the RULE carefully and answer the question:
RULE
Parking Regulations
Following parking regulations must be observed:
- No parking in front of fire hydrants.
- Parking is allowed only in designated spots marked in white or blue.
- Vehicles must not block pedestrian crosswalks.
- Vehicles must be parked within 18 inches of the curb.
Note: Parking in front of private driveways is permitted with the property owner's consent.
Question #21
Sarah parked her car in a spot marked in yellow to quickly visit the nearby store. She ensured that her car was within 18 inches of the curb and not blocking any pedestrian crosswalk.
Question: How did Sarah violate the RULE?
Question: How did Sarah violate the RULE?
- She parked too close to the curb.
- She parked in a spot not designated for parking.
- She parked in front of a fire hydrant.
- She did not violate the RULE.
Answer
The correct answer is choice 2.
According to the RULE, “Parking is allowed only in designated spots marked in white or blue.” – Sarah parked in a spot marked in yellow, which is not eligible as a designated parking color according to the RULE.
Answer choice A is incorrect as parking within 18 inches of the curb is in compliance with the RULE.
Answer choice C is incorrect because there is no mention of a fire hydrant in the scenario.
Answer choice D is incorrect as Sarah did violate the RULE by parking in a non-designated spot.
Question #22
Mike parked his motorcycle in front of a private driveway. He confirmed with the property owner who allowed him to park there. The motorcycle was parked more than 18 inches away from the curb.
Question: How did Mike violate the RULE?
Question: How did Mike violate the RULE?
- He parked in front of a private driveway.
- He parked his motorcycle too far from the curb.
- He did not have the property owner's consent.
- He did not violate the RULE.
Answer
The correct answer is 2.
According to the RULE, “Vehicles must be parked within 18 inches of the curb.” – Mike violated the RULE by parking his motorcycle more than 18 inches away from the curb.
Answer choice A is incorrect because parking in front of a private driveway is allowed with the property owner's consent, which Mike had.
Answer choice C is incorrect as the scenario states that Mike did have the property owner's consent.
Answer choice D is incorrect because Mike did violate the RULE regarding the distance from the curb.
Question #23
Linda parked her vehicle in a designated parking spot marked in blue. However, her vehicle was blocking a pedestrian crosswalk.
Question: Did Linda violate the RULE?
Question: Did Linda violate the RULE?
- Yes, because she parked in a spot marked in blue.
- Yes, because she blocked a pedestrian crosswalk.
- No, because she parked in a designated parking spot.
- No, because she was within 18 inches of the curb.
Answer
The correct answer is 2.
According to the RULE, “Vehicles must not block pedestrian crosswalks.” – Linda violated the RULE by parking her vehicle in a way that blocked a pedestrian crosswalk.
Answer choice A is incorrect because parking in a spot marked in blue is allowed.
Answer choice C is incorrect as despite parking in a designated spot, blocking a pedestrian crosswalk is a violation.
Answer choice D is incorrect as being within 18 inches of the curb does not negate the violation of blocking a crosswalk.
💡Tip:To effectively tackle problem sensitivity questions, which often involve identifying issues or conflicts in scenarios, it's crucial to carefully read and understand the context provided. Focus on identifying key elements and underlying issues in the scenario. Think about how different elements interact and what their potential implications are. This type of question requires you to be perceptive and considerate of nuances in the given information, aiming to anticipate problems or conflicts that may arise from the situation described.
For more practice questions and expert tips like this, check our NYPD Exam PrepPack.
Congratulations on completing our Free NYPD Police Exam Practice Test!
Now that you've acquainted yourself with the NYPD Police Exam content and various problem-solving strategies, it's time to enhance your preparation.
Explore our in-depth guides to gain a better understanding of the exam's content, delve into unique problem-solving techniques, and receive valuable tips for psychometric assessments. With our assistance, you'll learn to navigate through the complexities of the exam, from the initial application to the medical exam and beyond.
Take advantage of full-length simulation tests resembling the actual exam experience and aim for a high score that will significantly boost your readiness. Achieving top scores necessitates a thorough grasp of all solving methods, systematic practice, and meticulous preparation.
Our PrepPack not only helps you pass the exam but also equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to serve and protect the city with confidence. Don't let the daunting nature of the NYPD Exam deter you; instead, begin your journey toward a fulfilling career in law enforcement with the assurance that you are well-prepared to succeed.
For a starting price of just 79$, you can acquire our comprehensive PrepPack, ensuring substantial improvement in your performance before the NYPD Exam. Invest in your success and unlock your potential to excel in the test.
- Full Test Simulation
- 6 Deductive Reasoning Tests & Guide
- 5 Inductive Reasoning Tests & Guide
- 2 Memorization Tests & Guide
- 3 Visualization Tests
- 9 Information Ordering Tests
- 2 Problem Sensitivity Tests
- 10 Reading Comprehension Tests & Guide
- 3 Spatial Orientation Tests
FAQs
To take the exam, you only need a high school diploma or GED, but you must have 24 college credits or two years of active military service by your date of hire.
Starting pay is $55,942 a year, but you’ll see raises that bring you up to $109,352 after five and a half years. These rates might shift a bit over time. On top of the base pay, you get a 2.25% neighborhood policing bonus, a uniform allowance, and holiday pay. Plus, the City covers your health insurance and contributes to your welfare and annuity funds.
Here is a list of some additional requirements that you need to consider:
- Age: Candidates must be at least 17.5 years old to take the entrance exam and 21 years old to be appointed. Applicants cannot be older than 35 by April 3, 2024.
- Citizenship: U.S. citizenship is required at the time of appointment.
- Physical and Drug Testing: Candidates must pass a physical fitness test for appointment and may undergo periodic physical exams throughout their career. A drug screening is also required before appointment and during training.
- Driver's License: An unrestricted New York State Motor Vehicle Driver License is required at appointment and must be maintained throughout employment.
Yes. The current application fee is $40.00.
Note that paying with a credit/debit/gift card incurs a nonrefundable 2.00% service fee.
Additional well-known police exams in NY are the Nassau County Exam, MTA Exam, and the NYS Police Test. Visit our NY Police Exams or our NYC Civil Service Exams pages to obtain a general overview of the different exams in the region.
