How do I become a Springfield Police officer?

The Springfield Police Department selects candidates from a civil service list compiled by the Massachusetts Department of Human Resources (HRD). To be placed on this list you must take a competitive examination. This exam is offered approximately once every two years and administered by HRD. Unfortunately the most recent exam was administered on April 23, 2011. If you have questions regarding the civil service examination you can contact the Department of Human Resources at (617)727-3777.

Is there a residency requirement to be considered as a candidate?

Candidates for positions with the Springfield Police Department with few exceptions, will be selected based on "resident preference." Simply stated residents of the City of Springfield are given preference over nonresidents. Before a nonresident would be hired, the list of eligible residents would have to have been exhausted. This has only happened once in approximately fifteen years. In order to qualify for resident preference, an individual must be a resident of the City of Springfield for one year prior to taking the civil service examination.

If it is truly your desire to become a member of the Springfield Police Department, the first step would be to establish residence in the city of Springfield.

What is the exam fee?

Fees must be paid with a money order or cashier's check payable to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. (Check with the MA  web site as the fees change.) Any other form of payment will be returned to you unprocessed along with your application. Write your social security number and exam announcement number on the front of the money order or cashier's check.

Under what circumstances will the exam fee be waived?

If you have received the type of state or federal assistance listed on the FEE Waiver Request Form within the past 12 months, you may apply for a fee waiver. To have your fee waived, complete the form and submit it with your application. You must include appropriate supporting documentation verifying your eligibility under the program(s) you have checked on the form.

Fee Waiver Request forms are available at many City and Town Halls and at 1 Ashburton Place, Room 303 or you can call (617)727-3777 ext. 246 or toll free 1-800-392-6178 and leave your name and address. Ask for the form by name and it will be sent to you within 3 business days.

When do I claim Veterans' Preference or Disabled Veterans' Preference?

You will receive Veterans' Preference Claim forms with your Notice to Appear. If you are eligible (as detailed on the Veterans' Preference section of the examination poster), you should bring the completed form and a copy of your DD214 to the exam with you, Please do not submit your DD214 with your application.

How can I arrange for special assistance if I have a disability?

To arrange special testing accommodations because of a documented disability, fill in item 15 on the application form and submit a letter detailing the accommodation you will require with your application. Please do not use item IS to claim preference as a disabled veteran. (See above)

If I change my mind about taking an exam or if I miss an exam, can I get a refund?

No. There will be no refund of examination fees unless the examination is canceled by the Department of Personnel Administration. Be sure to mark your calendar with the date of the examination you wish to take.

How do I find out about the specifics of a particular exam, such as entrance requirements, exam dates and the exam process itself?

Detailed information about each exam is found on the Examination Announcement. Exam Announcements are available from City and Town Clerk Offices and personnel departments as well as the Department of Personnel Administration, Room 303, 1 Ashburton Place, Boston. Please review the Exam Announcement for the exam you wish to take before submitting your application.

How do I know if I should apply for an open or promotional exam?

If you are a current state or municipal employee with civil service status, contact your Personnel Director to find out if a promotional exam will be offered and if you are eligible. If not, apply for the open exam.

Do I have to deliver my application in person?

You may hand deliver or mail your application to DPA, I Ashburton Place, Room 303, Boston, MA. 02108. We encourage you to do this as early as possible. We are open Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m., closed weekends and holidays.

Why should I file my application early?

You are responsible for submitting a complete and correct application. Incorrect, incomplete or damaged applications will be returned to you. If your incorrect application must be returned to you, and if you are unable to resubmit a corrected application before the last filing date, you will not be allowed to take the exam. Early filing gives you time to resolve questions or problems.

How can I be sure that DPA received my application?

Because of the large number of applications we receive, we are unable to acknowledge receipt of applications, If you want confirmation for your records, we suggest that you send your application by certified mail.

What happens after I file my application?

Approximately 2 weeks before the examination date. We will mail a Notice to Appear to registered applicants telling them where to go to take the exam and the time to arrive. If you have not received your Notice 7 days before the examination date, please call (617)727-3777, Ext. 246 and leave a message giving your name, social security number and day and evening telephone numbers.

What is my home city or town?

This is the city or town in your mailing address.