The civil service examination is now open. There is no fee to apply as the fee has been paid for by the Utica Police Department. Deadline to Apply for the Civil Service Exam: August 14th, 2025.

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Watch Our UPD Recruitment Video

Benefits of Joining the Utica Police Department

Becoming a police officer offers the opportunity to serve and protect your community, while receiving great benefits.

Acknowledgement

You must acknowledge each of these statements by checking the box before each statement. Once you have acknowledged all of the statements, you will be able to access the application.


I understand I am applying to take a Civil Service Exam on September 20, 2025. Exam Date Header

I understand the minimum qualifications for this exam are: high school diploma/high school equivalency and valid NYS drivers license. Minimum Qualifications and Special Requirements Header

I understand that I must be at least 19 years of age by September 20, 2025. Minimum Qualifications and Special Requirements Header

I understand if I require special accommodations or an alternative test deighteenate I must contact Civil Service 315-792-0225

Message from the Chief of Police

Hiring Process

In order to begin the hiring process you must apply for the Civil Service Exam.

1 Written Exam

2 Physical Agility Test

3 Background Investigation

4 Interview

5 Conditional Offer

6 Psychological Exam, Medical Exam and Drug Screening

Interest Form

Submit our interest form and we'll keep in touch!

Frequently Asked Questions

I took the Utica Police Officer exam on May 3rd 2025, should I still take the Utica Police Officer exam scheduled on September 20th 2025?

There a many reasons you should take the police officer exam again in September, even if you took it in May. The Utica Police Department is tentatively planning to run a police academy in January of 2026 and again in September of 2026.

  • Even if you passed the May exam, aiming for a higher score on a retake can make you a more competitive candidate. A better score might improve your ranking on the eligible list, potentially leading to an earlier opportunity for appointment.
  • Taking the police test again in September could significantly improve your chances of being hired, regardless of your performance on the May exam. Although the results are not back yet, if you failed the May exam you would not be eligible to move forward in the application process.
  • Retaking the exam in September provides another chance to pass and qualify for the position. Retaking the exam gives you more time to study and prepare for the various sections, including the written and physical fitness tests. You might feel more confident and better equipped after preparing further since the May exam.

What is the duration of the hiring process?

The hiring process begins with the date of the written examination and concludes with the start the academy. This can range anywhere from 6-9 months.

What is the duration of the police academy?

The Police Academy is 26 weeks, followed by 12 weeks of Field Training.

As a lateral officer, do I need to attend the police academy?

As a lateral officer you do not need to attend the Police Academy. For questions pertaining to lateral transfers, contact the Chief's Office at 315-223-3400.

Are you paid to attend the Police Academy?

All Police Academy Recruits hired by the City of Utica are paid the entry level salary of a Police Officer, based on the union's contractual agreement.

Do you currently have a policy regarding tattoos for police officers?

Tattoos are permitted to be displayed with the approval from the Chief of Police.

What are the officers’ work schedules?

Patrol officers work four, 8-hour shifts in a row with 2 days off. Shifts include days, afternoons, and overnights.

When am I eligible to go to a specialty unit?

Eligibility is based on officer's performance and needs of the department, rather than time served.

Do I have to live in Utica to become a Utica Police officer?

As a condition of employment, newly hired officers must reside in the City of Utica within six (6) months of hire date. Officers must reside in the City of Utica for a minimum of five (5) years from the date of hire. Lateral officers are not bound by the residency requirement.

I am a veteran, do I receive any preferential points?

Veterans may receive five additional points on the written exam. See exam announcement for details.

As a Pre-employment Phase I Police Graduate will I have to complete a full police academy?

No. You only need to complete Phase II before starting the Field Training Officers Program.

Can I cross-file my application with multiple police agencies who are hosting their examinations on the same day?

Yes. Contact the City of Utica Civil Service Department for more information 315-792-0225.

How can I study for the written examination?