Polygraph screening has been an integral part of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) vetting process since 2008. Following the Anti-Border Corruption Act of 2010, the polygraph exam became mandatory for all law enforcement applicants. With the 2017 executive order from President Trump to hire an additional 5,000 Border Patrol agents, CBP’s Credibility Assessment Division sought ways to streamline the polygraph process while maintaining high standards of integrity and accuracy.
The Evolution of the Polygraph Exam
To meet the challenge of increased hiring demands, the Credibility Assessment Division reviewed and refined the polygraph process. Working closely with the National Center for Credibility Assessment, CBP eliminated redundant questions that were already covered in background investigations. This reorganization led to a more focused polygraph test that accurately assesses an applicant’s suitability as a federal law enforcement officer or agent.
Streamlined Process and Improved Results
The changes to the polygraph process have yielded significant benefits:
- Reduced Examination Time: The average exam time dropped by an hour.
- Lower Retest Rate: The rate of retests fell by nearly three percent.
- Increased Pass Rates: In Fiscal Year 2019, 5,559 applicants passed the polygraph test, a 24 percent increase from the previous year. This is a remarkable improvement compared to Fiscal Year 2017, where only 2,393 applicants passed, marking an 88 percent increase over two years.
Expanding Testing Capabilities
To accommodate the surge in applicants, CBP expanded its testing sites and increased the number of examiners. New polygraph testing locations were added in San Antonio, Texas; Atlanta, Georgia; and Portland, Maine, with plans to expand to San Juan, Puerto Rico. CBP now maintains 25 permanent testing locations nationwide, with examiners available to travel as needed.
Becoming a Polygraph Examiner
Becoming a polygraph examiner for CBP is a rigorous process. Candidates must have excellent communication skills, a bachelor’s degree, at least two years of investigative experience, and pass a polygraph test. Training takes place at the National Center for Credibility Assessment campus in Fort Jackson, South Carolina. The 14-week intensive curriculum covers psychology, physiology, law, ethics, and polygraph exam techniques. Graduates must then complete a six-month internship and ongoing continuing education to remain certified.
The Polygraph Examination Process
The polygraph exam consists of three phases and typically lasts about four hours:
- Pre-Test Interview: The examiner explains the procedures, addresses any concerns, dispels false information, and gives a practice exam. All test questions are reviewed with the applicant.
- Examination: During the test, the applicant is attached to the polygraph’s components, and physiological responses are recorded as they answer the questions multiple times.
- Post-Test Summary: Preliminary results are shared with the applicant. Final decisions are made by a team of senior polygraph examiners who review all exams.
Myths and Misconceptions
Many myths surround polygraph exams, but it is important to understand the realities:
- Not Intimidating: The polygraph setup is modern and non-intimidating, with sensors detecting changes in perspiration, heart rate, and respiration.
- Not Automatically Disqualifying: Having a record does not automatically disqualify an applicant. Each case is reviewed in context.
- Withholding Information: The most common reason for failure is withholding information or not following instructions. Being honest and cooperative is crucial.
Conclusion
The polygraph exam is not about finding perfect candidates but ensuring that applicants have the integrity required for federal law enforcement roles. CBP remains committed to maintaining high standards while improving efficiency to meet hiring goals. By understanding and preparing for the polygraph process, applicants can approach it with confidence and clarity.
For more information on the CBP polygraph exam and the application process, visit the CBP website. Join the CBP Talent Network or start your application at cbp.gov/careers/apply-now. For further inquiries, contact the CBP Applicant Contact Center at [email protected] or call (855) 500-3722.