LIVE. SERVE. LOVE IOWA.
Scroll down to read through the steps involved in becoming a Polk County Sheriff’s Deputy
Des Moines has blossomed into a vibrant metro that’s one of the fastest growing in the nation. But we remain firmly rooted in Midwestern values that make central Iowa a great place to live and raise a family. Respect, hard work and a more relaxed pace of life. With affordable living costs and low commute times, there’s no wonder why more people are calling Des Moines home.
DES MOINES WAS VOTED
TOP 5
PLACES TO LIVE IN THE US.
PCSO IS IOWA’S
LARGEST
SHERIFF’S OFFICE.
DES MOINES IS RANKED
TOP 3
IN THE US FOR AFFORDABLE LIVING.
PHASE 1 | Apply
How to Apply
Submit Application and required documents.
- Applications must be complete for processing.
- Required documents must be turned in before the deadline.
After you have applied for the job, you will be screened for employment eligibility by our personnel department. If you make it through the initial screening, you will receive notification with instructions on the test scheduling listed in Phase 2.
PHASE 2 | Physical Agility & Written P.O.S.T. Test
The Test Criteria
If accepted, you will be invited to attend our Physical Agility Test, Written Examination and Fingerprinting. All three of these tests will be conducted on the same day.
Physical Agility Test
The physical agility test is a required standardized test. Please review the explanation for more information. Explanation >
Written Examination
The PCSO will accept passing Police Officer Standards and Training (POST) scores from tests taken up to 90 days before our written test date. Applicants with eligible POST scores on file will be contacted. Study Guide >
Fingerprinting/Photo
Fingerprint and photographs are typically done the day of the physical exam.
PHASE 3 | Background & Polygraph Examination
Why This is Done
After successful completion of the tests listed in Phase 2, you will be scheduled for a polygraph examination. Once you’ve successfully completed the polygraph, investigators will begin a background investigation.
Polygraph Examination
The Polygraph Examination is a tool used to verify information submitted by applicants.
Background Investigation
The background investigation is utilized to confirm information listed on your application. Investigators will confirm employment, contact references, speak to neighbors and run a criminal history check on all applicants.
