The Ultimate NYC Special Officer Exam Preparation
Updated: February 25th, 2025
To become a New York City Special Officer, you must first pass the NYC Special Officer Civil Service Exam. This pre-employment test includes test topics such as Deductive and Inductive Reasoning, Memorization, Written Comprehension, and more. Here you'll find the complete preparation (also for NYC H+H Officers):
The NYC Special Officer Exam testing period starts Friday, May 30, 2025.
Practicing early helps you understand the test and gain confidence.
You can apply and schedule a reservation for the Special Officer exam through the Online Application System (OASys). The pre-employment tests for New York DCAS Special Officer and New York City Hospital Police are administered toward the end of each month and are expected to be given throughout the year depending on available positions in DCAS and HHC agencies. Exam reservations are accepted on specific dates, approximately one month prior to the test.
The Special Officer Exam is a multiple-choice, computer-formatted, aptitude test. You must receive a passing score of 70% on the exam. The civil service test involves job-related skills that are used in the daily tasks performed by NYC Special Officers.
There are nine basic skills that are assessed in the Special Officer test:
The NYC Special Officer position exists under the authority of the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS). In contrast, the Special Officer (HHC) position is an arm of the New York City Health & Hospitals Corporation (HHC). DCAS hiring agencies are distinct from HHC hiring agencies.
These two positions, however, involve pretty much the same tasks. As to educational requirements, DCAS Special Officer applicants must have a high school or equivalent diploma. While those who have applied to become a Special Officer (HHC), can possess an Individual Educational Program (IEP) diploma as an alternative to high school or GED, plus six months of full-time work experience.
In order to begin employment, NYC Health & Hospital Special Officers must graduate from the NYC Hospital Peace Officer Academy. DCAS Special Officers are required to pass the DCAS Computer-based Training and Applications Center program.
Both groups are tested at the DCAS Computer-based Training & Applications Center during the initial phase of the hiring process.
JobTestPrep has developed an NYC Special Officer practice test to prepare you for the exam. By practicing for the exam, you can gain a higher score on the exam which can get your name on the agency’s eligible list. Our practice tests, study guide, question & answer analysis and exam strategies all contribute to increased scores and a successful exam experience. Our preparation packs are accessible 24/7. Once you purchase the civil service Special Officer PrepPack™, you can start practicing right away. In addition, each question in our preparation pack is accompanied with detailed explanations.
