Since 2010,
almost every Border Patrol Agent, CBP Officer, and AMO Agent who’s joined CBP
has taken and passed polygraph exam.
A lot of them were nervous about it.
But they passed.
And you can, too.
Timelines can vary, but, generally a few weeks after you complete your e-QIP and a pre-screening interview,
an examiner will contact you to schedule your polygraph at a time and CBP exam center that’s convenient for you.
There are a lot of myths and misinformation about what the polygraph is and why we do it.
So let’s set the record straight.
In the polygraph exam, a CBP examiner will use simple biometric sensors to record your body’s physiological responses
as they ask you a series of questions about your past behavior, personal connections, and personal integrity.
That's it!
If you’re truthful on your e-QIP, during your Pre-Screening Interview, and with your examiner,
the polygraph will be a smooth process.
The total time is usually four hours,
but most of that will be the examiner explaining the process and discussing – before you start the exam – all the questions you’ll be asked.
You’ll have the chance to discuss any additional information and potential issues,
and the exam itself and recording of your biometrics will take place in a few 10 to 15 minute sessions during those four hours.
After the exam, you’ll get your preliminary result and an opportunity to ask the examiner any remaining questions.
Then, everything will be reviewed by a quality control board who’ll finalize your result within a few weeks.
So, what should you do – and not do – to prepare?
First, know that WE know that the polygraph makes people nervous!
The examiner will walk you through everything before you get started, and we account for nervousness in the exam.
Being nervous won’t make you fail.
Our polygraph examiners are experienced,
federally certified and overseen,
and work hard to provide each applicant with a fair and accurate exam.
Otherwise, preparing for your polygraph is simple.
Get a good night’s sleep,
eat breakfast,
take prescribed medications as you normally would
and bring some snacks and water if you’ll want them during breaks.
Wear comfortable, business-casual clothing,
arrive on time,
and set aside the whole day to ensure there’s ample time.
If anything’s changed between the time you completed your e-QIP and your exam
or, if you want to clarify or correct anything you submitted on your e-QIP
let your examiner know.
Clarifying or revealing new information during your poly won’t make you fail
but being deceptive or withholding information will.
Last but not least,
cooperate with your examiner and follow all their instructions.
They’re there to help you understand the test, how it’ll be conducted, and what we’re looking for.
They’re there to help you succeed.
Don’t hold any information back
or follow outside advice on how to “beat the test”.
After the exam, your examiner will provide you with your preliminary results,
which will be reviewed and validated by a quality control board within a few weeks.
If you are unsuccessful, your examiner will allow you the opportunity to discuss your result and why you weren’t successful.
If your results are inconclusive, you’ll be asked to return at a later date to re-answer certain questions and achieve conclusive results.
If you pass, your examiner will let you know, and you’ll receive an email or phone call with your next steps in the coming weeks.
The most important things to remember are to not conceal or omit anything on your e-QIP,
answer truthfully during the exam,
and cooperate with your examiner.
We’re not looking for perfect people who have never made a mistake!
But we are looking for people with honesty and integrity.
And the polygraph is part of how we do that.
For more information about the polygraph, visit our website at www.cbp.gov/poly
If you haven’t already, join our Talent Network to learn more about positions at CBP,
or head to cbp.gov/careers/apply-now to start your application.
CBPApplicantContactCenter@CBP.DHS.gov (855) 500-3722