FBI Polygraph Questions

Applicants who apply for a position with the FBI are required to undergo a thorough background investigation and must submit to a polygraph examination. The results of your polygraph examination, along with information gathered as part of the background investigation process, will be used to assess your overall suitability and eligibility to hold a position with the FBI.

Many of the questions you will be asked during your polygraph examination and your personal interview (part of the background investigation) will relate to your current situation and past actions/behaviors and will involve responses you previously provided to questions on your application and background investigation forms.

It is important to understand that polygraph examiners and investigators conducting the personal interviews are trained professionals tasked with gathering the facts. A trained personnel security specialist will later review these facts and make a final determination regarding your suitability and eligibility for employment. Therefore, it is crucial to be honest and forthcoming when filling out any and all application and background forms and when speaking with the polygraph examiner and investigator, even if it is uncomfortable.

Providing false or misleading information on forms or during the personal interview is an automatic disqualifier. Conversely, if you are honest and forthcoming with your forms and personal information, it may be possible to mitigate concerns and avoid automatic disqualification.

Understanding the FBI Polygraph Process

The polygraph examination process typically begins with a pre-test phase, where the polygraph examiner will explain the procedure and review the questions that will be asked during the examination. This phase is designed to ensure that the applicant understands the process and is comfortable with the questions being asked.

During the actual polygraph examination, the examiner will ask a series of questions while monitoring the applicant’s physiological responses, such as heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, and skin conductivity. These responses are recorded and analyzed to determine whether the applicant is being truthful.

Following the examination, there is a post-test phase where the examiner will review the results with the applicant. If there are any areas of concern or indications of deception, the applicant may be given an opportunity to explain or clarify their responses.

The entire polygraph process can be nerve-wracking, but it is important to remain calm and focused. Being well-prepared and honest throughout the process will help ensure the best possible outcome.

Common Topics Covered in the FBI Polygraph Examination

The FBI polygraph examination covers a wide range of topics related to the applicant’s personal history, behavior, and integrity. Some common areas of inquiry include:

Drug Use and Substance Abuse

• Have you ever used illegal drugs?
• Have you ever abused prescription medications?
• Have you ever sold or distributed illegal drugs?

Criminal Behavior

• Have you ever committed a crime that went undetected?
• Have you ever been involved in theft, fraud, or embezzlement?
• Have you ever engaged in violent or abusive behavior?

Financial Integrity

• Have you ever been involved in financial misconduct or fraud?
• Have you ever failed to report income or assets on tax returns?
• Have you ever misused company or government funds?

Employment History

• Have you ever falsified information on job applications or resumes?
• Have you ever been terminated or asked to resign from a job?
• Have you ever engaged in misconduct or unethical behavior in the workplace?

National Security

• Have you ever engaged in espionage or sabotage against the U.S.?
• Have you ever been a member of a group that advocates the overthrow of the U.S. government?
• Have you ever disclosed classified or sensitive information without authorization?

Personal Integrity

• Have you ever lied during a background investigation or polygraph examination?
• Have you ever withheld information about your criminal history?
• Have you ever engaged in behavior that could compromise your ability to perform your duties?

List of Potential FBI Polygraph Questions

1. Have you ever engaged in illegal drug use?
2. Have you ever falsified any information on your application forms?
3. Have you ever committed a crime that went undetected?
4. Have you ever stolen anything from an employer?
5. Have you ever lied to law enforcement officers?
6. Have you ever been involved in any form of smuggling?
7. Have you ever been terminated or asked to resign from a job?
8. Have you ever received money or gifts for performing your job duties?
9. Have you ever been involved in any form of human trafficking?
10. Have you ever participated in any form of espionage or sabotage against the U.S.?
11. Have you ever been a member of a group that advocates the overthrow of the U.S. government?
12. Have you ever abused any prescription medication?
13. Have you ever lied during any previous background investigations?
14. Have you ever been involved in any illegal activities while serving in the military?
15. Have you ever used your position to gain personal favors or advantages?
16. Have you ever been involved in any activities that could be considered a conflict of interest?
17. Have you ever been arrested or charged with any offense?
18. Have you ever lied to protect someone else involved in criminal activities?
19. Have you ever engaged in any behavior that could compromise your position?
20. Have you ever withheld information about your criminal history during previous employment applications?

By being aware of the types of questions that may be asked, applicants can better prepare for the polygraph examination and ensure they provide honest and accurate information throughout the application process.