A civil service exam is a test used to hire for government jobs. In the USA there’s no single national civil service exam. Federal agencies, states, counties and cities each run their own assessments for jobs like police officer, firefighter, clerk, postal worker and administrative staff.
This guide explains the main types of exams, the skills they test and how to rank high on the eligible list. Then practice with the free civil service practice test.
Key takeaways
- Federal jobs are posted on USAJOBS and often use online USA Hire assessments.
- State and local exams usually test reading, math, grammar, clerical skills and judgment.
- Scores determine your rank on an eligible list. Higher is better, not just passing.
- Veterans’ preference can add points or priority for eligible veterans.
USA Civil Service Exam: Quick Facts
- Federal job site
- USAJOBS.gov
- Federal assessments
- USA Hire and agency questionnaires
- Common sections
- Reading, math, grammar, clerical, judgment
- Typical passing score
- Often 70 (varies)
- Ranking
- Eligible list by score
- Veterans
- 5- or 10-point preference (federal)
What Is a Civil Service Exam?
Civil service systems hire on merit, so candidates compete on job-related tests rather than connections. After the exam, candidates are placed on an eligible list ranked by score, and agencies hire from the top of the list under their rules.
More on What Is a Civil Service Exam →Federal Civil Service Exams
There’s no general federal civil service exam anymore. Instead:
- USAJOBS applications include occupational questionnaires that rate your experience.
- USA Hire assessments are online tests of reasoning, judgment and work styles used by many agencies.
- Specialized exams exist for some jobs, such as the U.S. Postal Service’s virtual entry assessments and the Foreign Service Officer Test.
State and Local Civil Service Exams
States, counties and cities announce exams through their civil service or human resources departments. Common exams include:
| Job type | What’s usually tested |
|---|---|
| Police officer | Reading, writing, memory, judgment; then physical, background and psychological screening |
| Firefighter | Mechanical aptitude, reading, math, situational judgment; then a physical ability test |
| Clerical / administrative | Spelling, grammar, filing, data checking, math, typing |
| Corrections officer | Judgment, reading comprehension, report writing |
How to Pass the Civil Service Exam
- Read the exam announcement: it lists the tested areas and minimum qualifications.
- Brush up on basics: percentages, averages, ratios, spelling and grammar.
- Practice judgment questions: the right answer usually follows policy, safety and courtesy.
- Work on speed: clerical sections reward fast, accurate checking.
- Take timed practice tests. Our civil service practice test covers math, grammar, vocabulary, clerical skills and judgment.
Veterans’ Preference
Eligible veterans can receive 5-point or 10-point preference in federal hiring; 10 points is generally for veterans with service-connected disabilities. Many states offer similar preference. Veterans may also want to read our C&P exam guide, since disability ratings can affect preference eligibility.
More on Veterans’ Preference →Free practice test
Ready to test yourself?
Choose your test length, practice with instant feedback or take it exam-style, and get your score with an explanation for every answer.
Go to the USA Civil Service Exam practice test →USA Civil Service Exam FAQs
Is there a federal civil service exam?
Not a single general one. Federal agencies use USAJOBS questionnaires, USA Hire online assessments and job-specific exams.
Full answer →What is on a civil service exam?
Most state and local exams test reading comprehension, math, grammar and spelling, clerical skills and situational judgment. Police and fire exams add physical and background steps.
Full answer →What score do I need to pass a civil service exam?
Many jurisdictions use 70 as a passing score, but hiring is based on your rank on the eligible list, so aim as high as possible.
Full answer →How do I find civil service exams near me?
Check your state, county or city civil service or HR website for exam announcements, and USAJOBS.gov for federal jobs.
Full answer →Do veterans get extra points on civil service exams?
Eligible veterans can get 5 or 10 points of preference in federal hiring, and many states offer similar benefits.
Full answer →Official sources
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information. Rules, fees and procedures can change. Confirm the current requirements with the official agency listed in the sources. Read our editorial policy.