Written Exam
Be the Change
The California Commission on Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) provides the written test, known as the Entry‐Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLET-B). The written exam is divided into three tests: Writing Ability, Reading Ability, and Reasoning Ability. This exam is intended to assess each candidate’s foundational knowledge and abilities as it relates to success in becoming a CHP officer.
CHP Written Exam
Who Needs to Take the Exam?
Every applicant will need to take the CHP written exam, even if you’ve taken it with our Department or another agency before. Each time you apply, you will be required to take the written exam with our Department, as passing scores from other agencies will not be accepted.
When Can I Retake the Exam?
An applicant must wait for a period of one month (30 calendar days) before retaking the exam again, regardless of passing or failing. This applies even if the exam is taken through a different department/agency than the original exam.
What Happens When I Pass the Exam?
Applicants who earn a passing score with the CHP will move on to the next step of the hiring process, the background investigation. We highly recommend all those in the hiring process to join and participate in their division’s respective Applicant Preparation Program (APP), where resources will be offered to help guide and aid applicants in preparing for our Department’s testing, such as the Physical Abilities Test and the written exam.
How Can I Prepare for the Exam?
We recommend taking advantage of these resources:
What is the PELLET-B Exam?
The PELLET-B (POST Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery) is the standardized written exam to become a California Highway Patrol officer. It tests reading comprehension and writing ability. A passing score qualifies applicants for the background investigation phase.
How Do I Apply to the Written Exam?
You can apply to the CHP exam online. Select from one of the 8 available divisions across the state to take both the written and physical abilities tests. To plan ahead and find the division closest to your location, view the current CHP exam schedule.
Learn about the different officer career paths available within the CHP, how to get started with an application, and tips on the hiring process.
