ASTM E2062: Standard Guide for PDD Examination Practice

What Is ASTM E2062 and Why Does It Matter?

ASTM E2062-11(2017) is the Standard Guide for PDD (Psychophysiological Detection of Deception) Examination Standards of Practice, published and maintained by ASTM International. This document establishes essential and recommended elements in the procedures for conducting PDD examinations [1]Verified ASTM E2062-11(2017) Standard Guide for PDD Examination Standards of Practice
Confirms E2062 is the standard guide for PDD examination standards under Committee E52, published in Vol. 14.02, first published as E2062-00 in 2000, serving as the foundational procedural framework that defines how professional polygraph examinations should be conducted to ensure consistency, scientific rigor, and ethical compliance.

Unlike mandatory regulatory codes, ASTM E2062 is a voluntary consensus standard — developed through a collaborative process involving polygraph professionals, researchers, government representatives, and other stakeholders. Despite its voluntary nature, the standard carries significant weight in the polygraph profession. Federal agencies including the Department of Defense, Department of Justice, and Department of Homeland Security frequently reference ASTM standards when establishing their internal polygraph program protocols. Many state licensing boards also incorporate ASTM E2062 requirements into their regulatory frameworks.

The standard was first published in 2000 as E2062-00 [1]Verified ASTM E2062-11(2017) Standard Guide for PDD Examination Standards of Practice
Confirms E2062 is the standard guide for PDD examination standards under Committee E52, published in Vol. 14.02, first published as E2062-00 in 2000, underwent multiple revisions (including versions in 2007 and 2010), received its last full revision in 2011, and was reapproved in 2017 without substantive changes [1]Verified ASTM E2062-11(2017) Standard Guide for PDD Examination Standards of Practice
Confirms E2062 is the standard guide for PDD examination standards under Committee E52, published in Vol. 14.02, first published as E2062-00 in 2000. It falls under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E52 on Forensic Psychophysiology, specifically Subcommittee E52.05 on Psychophysiological Detection of Deception (PDD) [2]Verified Committee E52 on Forensic Psychophysiology
Confirms E52 was formed in 1996, has approximately 22 members, jurisdiction over 7 standards, and meets twice yearly[3]Verified ASTM E2062 Product Page — Subcommittee E52.05
Confirms E2062 is under Subcommittee E52.05 and references E2000, E2031, E2065, and E2080. This placement within a dedicated forensic psychophysiology committee underscores the specialized scientific nature of PDD examinations.

Importantly, as of 2026, ASTM E2062-11(2017) has been withdrawn [4]Verified ASTM Forensic Science Standards — Complete Listing
Confirms E2062-11(2017) withdrawn 2026, along with multiple other PDD standards including E2324 and E2386, along with several other PDD-related ASTM standards. However, its principles and procedures remain foundational to professional polygraph practice worldwide, and professional organizations such as the APA and the International Society of Polygraph Examiners (ISOPE) continue to reference ASTM standards in their own standards of practice [5]Verified Standards of Practice — International Society of Polygraph Examiners
Confirms ISOPE references ASTM standards E1954, E2000, E2063, E2439, E2229, and E2062 in its Standards of Practice. For current APA forensic standards for polygraph examiners, these ASTM benchmarks remain an essential reference point.

Scope and Applicability of the Standard

ASTM E2062 was intentionally broad in scope, designed to apply across all contexts in which PDD examinations are administered. Whether a polygraph examination is conducted for pre-employment screening at a federal agency, as part of a law enforcement background investigation, during a criminal investigation, for post-conviction sex offender testing (PCSOT), or in a private sector application, the standard guide's principles and procedures apply equally.

The document addresses the complete examination lifecycle, covering examiner preparation and qualifications, the pre-test interview, the testing environment, question design and sequencing, physiological data collection and analysis, and post-test procedures. Each phase includes specific guidance designed to minimize error, protect examinee rights, and maximize the diagnostic accuracy of the examination. For a deeper understanding of how testing errors are categorized and managed, see our guide on polygraph testing errors: procedural, random, and systematic.

Importantly, ASTM E2062 does not prescribe a single specific testing technique or scoring algorithm. Instead, it establishes minimum procedural standards that apply regardless of whether an examiner uses the Control Question Test (CQT), the Concealed Information Test (CIT), the Zone Comparison Technique, or any other validated testing format. This technique-agnostic approach ensures the standard remains relevant as testing methodologies evolve. For a complete list of currently approved methods, consult our guide to APA validated polygraph techniques.

Understanding ASTM International and Its Standards Development Process

ASTM International is one of the world's largest voluntary standards development organizations. The organization maintains over 13,000 standards [6]Verified ASTM International — Homepage and Standards Overview
Confirms ASTM maintains over 13,000 standards developed through more than 150 technical committees, developed through more than 150 technical committees and more than 2,100 subcommittees [7]Verified ASTM International — What to Expect (Consumer Participation)
Confirms ASTM standards review cycle: reviewed every 5 years, withdrawn if not reapproved after 8 years; over 35,000 members worldwide. The organization has more than 35,000 members worldwide [7]Verified ASTM International — What to Expect (Consumer Participation)
Confirms ASTM standards review cycle: reviewed every 5 years, withdrawn if not reapproved after 8 years; over 35,000 members worldwide. Founded in 1898 by Charles B. Dudley, a chemist with the Pennsylvania Railroad [8]Verified ASTM International — Detailed Overview
Confirms ASTM was founded in 1898 by Charles B. Dudley, headquartered in West Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, the organization was originally known as the American Society for Testing and Materials and changed its name to ASTM International in 2001 [9]Verified ASTM International — Wikipedia
Confirms ASTM name changed to ASTM International in 2001, over 30,000 members from 140+ countries. Its headquarters are located in West Conshohocken, Pennsylvania [8]Verified ASTM International — Detailed Overview
Confirms ASTM was founded in 1898 by Charles B. Dudley, headquartered in West Conshohocken, Pennsylvania.

ASTM standards are developed through a rigorous consensus-based process that requires agreement among all interested stakeholders — producers, users, consumers, and general interest members — before a standard can be published [7]Verified ASTM International — What to Expect (Consumer Participation)
Confirms ASTM standards review cycle: reviewed every 5 years, withdrawn if not reapproved after 8 years; over 35,000 members worldwide. This process ensures balanced representation and prevents any single interest group from dominating the standards development process. Standards must be reviewed at least every five years and are subject to withdrawal if not reapproved within eight years [7]Verified ASTM International — What to Expect (Consumer Participation)
Confirms ASTM standards review cycle: reviewed every 5 years, withdrawn if not reapproved after 8 years; over 35,000 members worldwide.

Within ASTM's organizational structure, Committee E52 on Forensic Psychophysiology was formed in 1996 and is specifically responsible for standards related to polygraph and PDD examinations [2]Verified Committee E52 on Forensic Psychophysiology
Confirms E52 was formed in 1996, has approximately 22 members, jurisdiction over 7 standards, and meets twice yearly. As of recent data, E52 has a membership of approximately 22 members and jurisdiction over 7 standards published in Volume 14.02 of the Annual Book of ASTM Standards [2]Verified Committee E52 on Forensic Psychophysiology
Confirms E52 was formed in 1996, has approximately 22 members, jurisdiction over 7 standards, and meets twice yearly. The committee meets twice a year, with about 25 members attending two days of technical meetings [2]Verified Committee E52 on Forensic Psychophysiology
Confirms E52 was formed in 1996, has approximately 22 members, jurisdiction over 7 standards, and meets twice yearly. It is distinct from Committee E30 on Forensic Sciences, which covers criminalistics, digital evidence, and other forensic disciplines [10]Verified ASTM Technical Committee List (April 2025)
Confirms E52 is Forensic Psychophysiology in the official committee list, distinct from E30 on Forensic Sciences.

Key ASTM Standards for the Polygraph Profession

While ASTM E2062 is the primary standard guide for PDD examination practice, ASTM International has published several related standards that together form a comprehensive framework for polygraph professionals. Understanding the relationship between these standards provides valuable context:

ASTM E2439 — Standard Guide for Instrumentation, Sensors and Operating Software Used in Forensic Psychophysiological Detection of Deception (Polygraph) Examinations. This companion standard addresses the minimum requirements for polygraph instruments, covering both analog and computerized systems, ensuring that instrumentation simultaneously records respiratory, electrodermal, and cardiovascular activity [11]Verified ASTM E2439-09(2016) Standard Guide for Instrumentation, Sensors and Operating Software
Confirms E2439 covers minimum instrumentation requirements for PDD, under Committee E52, withdrawn 2025. Note: This standard was withdrawn in 2025 [11]Verified ASTM E2439-09(2016) Standard Guide for Instrumentation, Sensors and Operating Software
Confirms E2439 covers minimum instrumentation requirements for PDD, under Committee E52, withdrawn 2025.

ASTM E2063 — Standard Practice for Calibration and Functionality Checks Used in Forensic Psychophysiological Detection of Deception (Polygraph) Examinations. This standard provides guidelines for calibrating analog and computerized polygraph systems, specifying that analog polygraphs may be calibrated by the examiner, manufacturer, or factory-authorized individual, while computerized instrumentation must be calibrated by the manufacturer or factory-authorized personnel [12]Verified ASTM E2063-12(2017) Standard Practice for Calibration and Functionality Checks
Confirms E2063 addresses calibration and functionality checks for analog and computerized polygraph instruments[13]Verified Practice for Calibration and Functionality Checks Used in Forensic PDD Examinations
Confirms analog polygraphs may be calibrated by examiners, manufacturers, or authorized individuals; computerized by manufacturers or factory-authorized personnel.

ASTM E2000 — Standard Guide for Minimum Basic Education and Training of Individuals Involved in the Detection of Deception (PDD). This standard established the minimum education and training requirements for individuals conducting PDD examinations [14]Verified ASTM E2000-05 Standard Guide for Minimum Basic Education and Training
Confirms E2000 covered minimum education and training requirements for PDD examiners; withdrawn 2014. Although withdrawn in 2014, its principles continue to inform APA accreditation standards.

ASTM E2031 — Standard Practice for Quality Control of Psychophysiological Detection of Deception (Polygraph) Examinations. This practice established that all PDD examinations may be subjected to quality control review by experienced examiners, with reviews required to be independent and objective [15]Verified Practice for Quality Control of Psychophysiological Detection of Deception (Polygraph) Examinations
Confirms all PDD examinations may be subjected to quality control review; reviews must be independent and objective[16]Verified ASTM E2031-99(2016) Standard Practice for Quality Control of PDD Examinations
Confirms quality control review procedures including requirement that reviewer attest in writing whether data supports original conclusion; withdrawn 2025.

ASTM E2229 — Standard Practices for Interpretation of Psychophysiological Detection of Deception (Polygraph) Data. This standard addresses the analysis and interpretation of polygraph data, providing guidance on scoring methodologies [4]Verified ASTM Forensic Science Standards — Complete Listing
Confirms E2062-11(2017) withdrawn 2026, along with multiple other PDD standards including E2324 and E2386. For more on modern data analysis approaches, see our guide to evaluating polygraph data: automated scoring and analysis.

ASTM E2065 — Standard Guide for Ethical Requirements for Psychophysiological Detection of Deception (PDD) Examiners. First published in 2000, this standard established comprehensive ethical requirements for all individuals engaged in forensic PDD, creating a foundational framework widely cited by professional organizations and courts [17]Verified E 2065-00: Standard Guide for PDD Examinations
Confirms the standard established comprehensive ethical requirements for PDD examiners in 2000, widely cited by professional organizations and courts. For a deeper look at examiner ethics, see our polygraph examiner code of ethics guide.

Together, these standards covered the essential elements of professional polygraph practice: properly trained examiners using properly calibrated equipment following properly standardized procedures. This comprehensive approach mirrors the quality assurance framework used in other forensic disciplines.

Educational and Training Requirements

ASTM E2062 establishes clear minimum qualifications for individuals conducting PDD examinations. The standard references the educational standards outlined in ASTM E2000, which specifies that examiners must complete adequate training to be qualified for conducting PDD examinations [14]Verified ASTM E2000-05 Standard Guide for Minimum Basic Education and Training
Confirms E2000 covered minimum education and training requirements for PDD examiners; withdrawn 2014.

In practice, this means graduating from a polygraph training program accredited by the American Polygraph Association (APA) or an equivalent nationally recognized accrediting body. APA-accredited polygraph training programs require a minimum of 400 hours of in-residence instruction [18]Verified APA Accredited Training Program Requirements
Confirms APA-accredited programs require minimum 400 hours of in-residence study, completed in 10 to 17 weeks, with 95% instruction by recognized faculty, completed in 10 to 17 weeks [18]Verified APA Accredited Training Program Requirements
Confirms APA-accredited programs require minimum 400 hours of in-residence study, completed in 10 to 17 weeks, with 95% instruction by recognized faculty. The curriculum covers psychophysiology, test question construction, data analysis, interviewing techniques, ethics, and supervised practical examinations. At least 95 percent of all instruction must be delivered by recognized faculty members [18]Verified APA Accredited Training Program Requirements
Confirms APA-accredited programs require minimum 400 hours of in-residence study, completed in 10 to 17 weeks, with 95% instruction by recognized faculty.

Beyond initial training, ASTM E2062 emphasizes the importance of continuing education. The APA requires practicing examiners to complete a minimum of 30 continuing education hours every two years [19]Verified APA Continuing Education Policy
Confirms practicing examiners must complete minimum 30 continuing education hours every two years. The standard also references educational prerequisites for entering polygraph training programs. Most accredited programs require applicants to hold at minimum a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, though requirements vary. For those interested in pursuing a polygraph career or exploring international training options, our guide on polygraph training schools in Africa provides pathway information.

The Department of Defense Polygraph Institute (DoDPI), established in November 1986 as a redesignation of the U.S. Army Polygraph School [20]Verified NCCA History — National Center for Credibility Assessment
Confirms original U.S. Army Polygraph School established in 1951 at Fort Gordon, Georgia; DoDPI designated November 1986; renamed DACA January 2007; redesignated NCCA August 2010, was a major institutional force in standardizing polygraph training. The original U.S. Army Polygraph School was established in 1951 as part of the Provost Marshal General School at Fort Gordon, Georgia [20]Verified NCCA History — National Center for Credibility Assessment
Confirms original U.S. Army Polygraph School established in 1951 at Fort Gordon, Georgia; DoDPI designated November 1986; renamed DACA January 2007; redesignated NCCA August 2010. DoDPI was renamed the Defense Academy for Credibility Assessment (DACA) in January 2007 and subsequently redesignated the National Center for Credibility Assessment (NCCA) in August 2010 [20]Verified NCCA History — National Center for Credibility Assessment
Confirms original U.S. Army Polygraph School established in 1951 at Fort Gordon, Georgia; DoDPI designated November 1986; renamed DACA January 2007; redesignated NCCA August 2010[21]Verified National Center for Credibility Assessment — Wikidata
Confirms succession timeline from U.S. Army Polygraph School (1951) through DoDPI (1986) to NCCA (2010). The NCCA continues to serve as the federal government's primary center for credibility assessment education and quality oversight [22]Verified Recognizing the National Center for Credibility Assessment (NCCA) — Congressional Record
Confirms NCCA and predecessors served over 50 years as core agency for credibility assessment standardization in the federal government.

Professional Responsibilities Under ASTM E2062

Beyond formal qualifications, ASTM E2062 outlines professional responsibilities that examiners must uphold throughout their careers. These responsibilities fall into four key areas:

Technical Competency: Examiners must demonstrate proficiency in administering validated testing techniques, properly operating polygraph instrumentation, and accurately scoring physiological data. The standard expects examiners to employ only scientifically validated methods and to avoid relying on unvalidated or discredited techniques. Research such as Monte Carlo simulations by Donald J. Krapohl and Donnie W. Dutton has provided systematic criterion accuracy estimates for multi-issue examinations, confirming the importance of proper technique adherence and that each question must be evaluated independently [23]Verified Best Practices in Polygraph Examination
Confirms Monte Carlo simulations based on 299 subtotal scores provided first systematic criterion accuracy estimates for two-relevant-question multi-issue examinations. The Federal Zone Comparison Technique is one widely studied example of a validated methodology.

Ethical Conduct: The guide requires adherence to recognized codes of ethics, including those established by the APA and state licensing boards. Examiners must avoid conflicts of interest, protect examinee confidentiality, and refrain from any conduct that could compromise the objectivity of examination results. For a comprehensive overview, see our guide to ethical responsibilities of a polygraph examiner.

Documentation Standards: ASTM E2062 requires comprehensive documentation of every phase of the examination process. This includes the written consent form, pre-test interview notes, test question formats, physiological charts and data recordings, scoring worksheets, and the final written report of examination results. For guidance on proper report formatting, see our overview of diagnostic impression in a polygraph report. Many professional organizations now also recommend video recording of polygraph sessions as an additional quality assurance measure — learn more about why polygraph examiners video record sessions. For data retention requirements, consult our guide to APA data retention and secure storage standards.

Quality Assurance Participation: Examiners are expected to participate in quality assurance programs, which may include peer review of examination charts, periodic proficiency testing, and internal or external audits. The companion ASTM E2031 standard specifically established that all PDD examinations may be subjected to quality control review and that such reviews must be independent and objective, with the reviewer required to attest in writing whether the data supports the original examiner's conclusion [15]Verified Practice for Quality Control of Psychophysiological Detection of Deception (Polygraph) Examinations
Confirms all PDD examinations may be subjected to quality control review; reviews must be independent and objective[16]Verified ASTM E2031-99(2016) Standard Practice for Quality Control of PDD Examinations
Confirms quality control review procedures including requirement that reviewer attest in writing whether data supports original conclusion; withdrawn 2025.

The Critical Importance of the Pre-Test Interview

The pre-test phase is the most complex and time-intensive component of a PDD examination, and ASTM E2062 devotes considerable attention to its proper execution. The pre-test interview typically accounts for a significant portion of a standard examination that may last two to three hours total. Far from being mere administrative preparation, the pre-test phase serves multiple critical functions that directly impact the diagnostic accuracy of the entire examination.

During the pre-test phase, the examiner must establish rapport with the examinee — creating a professional yet comfortable dynamic that encourages honest communication. Research in polygraph methodology has consistently demonstrated that the quality of the pre-test interview significantly influences the quality of the physiological data collected during the in-test phase. An examinee who feels anxious, confused, or adversarial during the pre-test is more likely to produce physiological data that is difficult to interpret accurately. Understanding emotional responses during testing is crucial — for more context, see our guide on how crying can influence a polygraph test.

Informed Consent and Examinee Rights

ASTM E2062 mandates that informed consent must be obtained before any PDD examination can proceed. This is not a mere formality — it is a fundamental ethical and legal requirement that protects both the examinee and the examiner. The informed consent process requires the examiner to explain the purpose of the examination, the general nature of the testing process, the types of questions that will be asked, the voluntary nature of participation, the examinee's right to terminate the examination at any time, and how the examination results will be used and disclosed.

The companion ASTM E2065 ethical requirements standard, first published in 2000, reinforced these principles by establishing comprehensive ethical requirements for all individuals engaged in forensic PDD [17]Verified E 2065-00: Standard Guide for PDD Examinations
Confirms the standard established comprehensive ethical requirements for PDD examiners in 2000, widely cited by professional organizations and courts. Together, these standards ensure that examinees are treated with dignity, respect, and full transparency throughout the examination process.

The concept of voluntariness is especially important in law enforcement and national security contexts, where examinees may feel implicit pressure to participate. ASTM E2062 requires that the voluntary nature of the examination be clearly communicated, regardless of any institutional expectations surrounding the examination. This protects the integrity of the examination process and the admissibility of its results.

Question Formulation and Review

ASTM E2062 provides detailed guidance on the formulation and review of test questions — one of the most technically demanding aspects of PDD examination practice. All test questions must be reviewed with the examinee during the pre-test phase. This serves several purposes: it ensures the examinee understands each question completely, it allows the examiner to assess the examinee's reactions and clarify any ambiguities, and it eliminates the element of surprise during the actual testing phase.

Questions must be simple, clear, and answerable with a "yes" or "no" response. They should address a single issue and avoid compound constructions that could confuse the examinee. The standard distinguishes between relevant questions (which address the specific issue under investigation), comparison questions (which provide a psychological comparison baseline), and irrelevant questions (which serve as neutral baseline stimuli).

Cleve Backster's foundational work on standardized examination notepacks and numerical scoring established the three-zone structure (Red, Green, Black zones) and the numerical scoring system (+3 to -3) that became the basis for modern polygraph examination and scoring practices [24]Verified Standardized polygraph examination notepack
Confirms the notepack established the three-zone structure (Red, Green, Black zones) and numerical scoring system (+3 to -3) foundational to modern polygraph scoring. These innovations shifted the field from subjective global interpretation toward systematic, quantifiable analysis.

Examination Room Standards

ASTM E2062 specifies that the testing environment must be controlled to minimize external stimuli that could interfere with physiological data collection. The examination room should be quiet, private, and free from distractions. Temperature and lighting should be comfortable, and the room should be large enough to accommodate the examiner, the examinee, and all necessary equipment without creating a claustrophobic or intimidating atmosphere.

The standard recommends that the examination room be isolated from sources of noise, vibration, and interruption. Telephones should be silenced, and access to the room should be restricted during testing. The goal is to create an environment where the only significant stimuli experienced by the examinee are the test questions themselves. For a detailed look at facility requirements, see our guide on polygraph examination room setup and APA facility standards.

The examination chair should be comfortable enough to allow the examinee to remain still for extended periods, as excessive movement can introduce artifacts into the physiological recordings. Understanding and managing artifacts in polygraph testing is a critical skill for every examiner. The physiological sensors must be properly positioned to obtain clean, interpretable data from all monitored channels.

Physiological Channels and Recording Standards

ASTM E2062 requires that PDD examinations record physiological data from at least three major channels: respiratory activity, electrodermal activity (skin conductance), and cardiovascular activity. The companion standard ASTM E2439 provided more detailed specifications for instrumentation, sensors, and operating software used in PDD examinations [11]Verified ASTM E2439-09(2016) Standard Guide for Instrumentation, Sensors and Operating Software
Confirms E2439 covers minimum instrumentation requirements for PDD, under Committee E52, withdrawn 2025.

Respiratory activity is typically measured using pneumograph components placed around the chest and abdomen. Electrodermal activity is recorded through galvanic skin response (GSR) electrodes attached to the fingers. Cardiovascular activity is monitored through a blood pressure cuff or cardio activity monitor. Some modern systems also incorporate a motion sensor to detect deliberate or involuntary movements that could affect data quality. Understanding cardiovascular arousal in polygraph testing is essential for proper data interpretation.

The standard requires that all physiological data be recorded simultaneously and continuously during each test chart. The data must be preserved in a format that allows for subsequent review, rescoring, and quality control analysis. The polygraph reaction window — typically a 10 to 35 second scoring period after question onset — is the critical timeframe during which physiological responses are evaluated.

Scoring and Data Analysis Methods

ASTM E2062 requires that physiological data be analyzed using recognized, validated scoring methods. The standard does not prescribe a single scoring algorithm but requires that whatever method is used must be supported by scientific research and applied consistently.

The most widely used manual scoring method is the seven-position numerical scale, derived from Backster's original +3 to -3 system [24]Verified Standardized polygraph examination notepack
Confirms the notepack established the three-zone structure (Red, Green, Black zones) and numerical scoring system (+3 to -3) foundational to modern polygraph scoring. Automated scoring systems such as the Empirical Scoring System (ESS) and the Objective Scoring System (OSS-3) have been developed and validated through extensive research including Monte Carlo simulation studies. These computerized approaches reduce subjectivity and improve consistency in decision-making.

Research by Krapohl and Dutton (2020) employed Monte Carlo simulations based on 299 subtotal scores to provide the first systematic criterion accuracy estimates and confidence intervals for two-relevant-question multi-issue examinations, confirming that each question must be evaluated independently [23]Verified Best Practices in Polygraph Examination
Confirms Monte Carlo simulations based on 299 subtotal scores provided first systematic criterion accuracy estimates for two-relevant-question multi-issue examinations. This methodological advance has been particularly valuable for establishing evidence-based cutscores and decision rules.

Field research by Ginton (2013) introduced an innovative non-standard method for estimating CQT accuracy using paired examinations, finding 94% accuracy for detecting deceptive examinees and 83.5% for truthful examinees when excluding approximately 20% inconclusive outcomes [25]Verified A non-standard method for estimating the accuracy of lie detection techniques demonstrated on a self-validating set of field polygraph examinations
Confirms 94% accuracy for detecting deceptive examinees and 83.5% for truthful examinees when excluding approximately 20% inconclusive outcomes. This study has been recognized as a significant methodological breakthrough in the ongoing effort to validate polygraph techniques using real-world data. Understanding how inconclusive and false polygraph results are handled is essential for proper interpretation of these findings. For detailed guidance, see our article on handling inconclusive results according to APA standards.

Post-Test Interview and Disclosure

ASTM E2062 addresses the post-test phase, which begins after the final test chart has been collected. The examiner must analyze the physiological data and reach a conclusion before conducting any post-test interview. This sequence is critical — the examiner's opinion must be based solely on the physiological data, not on any admissions or explanations offered during a post-test discussion.

The standard permits a post-test interview in which the examiner may discuss the examination results with the examinee. This phase can serve both investigative and clinical purposes. In investigative contexts, the post-test interview may provide an opportunity for clarification or additional information. In clinical contexts such as PCSOT, the post-test phase may address therapeutic goals. For more on this critical phase, see our guide on polygraph post-test interview goals, techniques, and rights.

Importantly, any post-test interview must be conducted ethically and professionally. ASTM E2062 and its companion ethical standards prohibit coercive, threatening, or deceptive post-test interview tactics. For a nuanced discussion of ethical boundaries, see our guide on deceptive interrogation tactics and ethics for polygraph examiners.

Report Writing and Documentation Requirements

ASTM E2062 requires that every PDD examination result in a comprehensive written report. The report must include the identification of the examiner, the examinee, and the requesting party; the date, time, and location of the examination; a description of the examination purpose and the issues addressed; a record of the testing technique and question sequence used; the examiner's opinion (Deception Indicated, No Deception Indicated, or Inconclusive); and the factual basis for that opinion.

The standard requires that all supporting documentation — including consent forms, physiological charts, scoring worksheets, and any notes from the pre-test and post-test phases — be preserved in the examination file. This comprehensive documentation serves multiple purposes: it enables quality control review, supports potential legal proceedings, provides a basis for resolving any disputes about the examination, and establishes an audit trail for professional accountability.

The importance of detailed documentation cannot be overstated. In legal proceedings, the admissibility and weight given to polygraph evidence often depends on the thoroughness and professionalism of the examination documentation. Attorneys and courts evaluate not just the examiner's conclusion, but the entire examination process as reflected in the written record. For a deeper understanding of what the final report communicates, see our guide to understanding diagnostic impression in a polygraph report.

Core Ethical Principles

The ethical framework underlying ASTM E2062 draws from the companion standard ASTM E2065, first published in 2000 [17]Verified E 2065-00: Standard Guide for PDD Examinations
Confirms the standard established comprehensive ethical requirements for PDD examiners in 2000, widely cited by professional organizations and courts, which established comprehensive ethical requirements for PDD examiners. These ethical principles form the moral backbone of professional polygraph practice and ensure that examinations serve their intended purpose without compromising the rights and dignity of examinees.

Key ethical requirements include: conducting examinations only within the examiner's area of competence; maintaining objectivity and avoiding bias; protecting the confidentiality of examination results; obtaining proper informed consent; refraining from personal relationships that could create conflicts of interest; and reporting examination results honestly and accurately, even when those results are unfavorable to the requesting party.

Examiners are also prohibited from guaranteeing specific outcomes, applying undue pressure on examinees, or using the examination process for purposes other than those disclosed to the examinee. The handling of purposeful non-cooperation (PNC) in polygraph testing must also follow ethical guidelines that respect examinee rights while maintaining examination integrity.

Examinee Protections and Rights

ASTM E2062 establishes several specific protections for examinees. The right to informed consent and the right to terminate the examination at any time are foundational. Additionally, the standard requires that examinees be treated with respect and professionalism throughout the examination process.

Examinees have the right to know the purpose of the examination, the general nature of the questions that will be asked, how the results will be used, and who will have access to the results. They have the right to be free from coercion, intimidation, or deception during the examination process. They have the right to request that the examination be conducted by a different examiner if they have reasonable concerns about the objectivity or competence of the assigned examiner.

These protections are not merely ethical ideals — they are practical necessities. An examination conducted under coercive conditions produces unreliable data. The quality of the physiological data, and therefore the accuracy of the examination result, depends directly on the examinee being treated with fairness, transparency, and respect.

Federal Government Applications

ASTM E2062 has profoundly influenced polygraph practice across federal agencies. The National Center for Credibility Assessment (NCCA), which evolved from the original U.S. Army Polygraph School established in 1951 [20]Verified NCCA History — National Center for Credibility Assessment
Confirms original U.S. Army Polygraph School established in 1951 at Fort Gordon, Georgia; DoDPI designated November 1986; renamed DACA January 2007; redesignated NCCA August 2010, through the Department of Defense Polygraph Institute (DoDPI, designated 1986) and the Defense Academy for Credibility Assessment (DACA, 2007), continues to serve as the federal government's primary center for credibility assessment standardization [22]Verified Recognizing the National Center for Credibility Assessment (NCCA) — Congressional Record
Confirms NCCA and predecessors served over 50 years as core agency for credibility assessment standardization in the federal government. The NCCA's training and oversight programs reflect many of the principles codified in ASTM E2062.

Federal agencies that conduct PDD examinations — including the FBI, CIA, NSA, Secret Service, DEA, and various Department of Defense agencies — have historically developed their internal policies with reference to ASTM standards. The Federal Examiner standards for the Zone Comparison Technique and other approved methods incorporate many of the procedural safeguards outlined in E2062.

The standard's influence extends to the Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA) of 1988, which regulates the use of polygraph testing in the private sector. While EPPA exempts federal, state, and local government agencies, the procedural standards it references for permitted private-sector testing align closely with the framework established by ASTM E2062.

International Influence

The influence of ASTM E2062 extends well beyond U.S. borders. The European Polygraph Association (EPA), founded in 2003 [26]Verified European Polygraph Association (EPA) — Official Website
Confirms EPA was founded in 2003, registered in the Spanish National Registry of Associations, and requires 400 hours training for membership, promotes standards aligned with those developed by ASTM and the APA. The EPA requires members to have completed training programs with at least 400 hours of theoretical and practical instruction [26]Verified European Polygraph Association (EPA) — Official Website
Confirms EPA was founded in 2003, registered in the Spanish National Registry of Associations, and requires 400 hours training for membership, mirroring the educational standards referenced in E2062.

Poland developed one of Europe's most established polygraph traditions, with its first polygraph examination in a criminal case performed in 1963 [27]Verified Polygraph Examination in Poland. History, Law, Experimental Research, and Practice
Confirms Poland's first polygraph examination in a criminal case in 1963 and explicit legal authorization through 2003 amendment to Code of Penal Procedure. The country established explicit legal authorization for polygraph use through a 2003 amendment to the Code of Penal Procedure [27]Verified Polygraph Examination in Poland. History, Law, Experimental Research, and Practice
Confirms Poland's first polygraph examination in a criminal case in 1963 and explicit legal authorization through 2003 amendment to Code of Penal Procedure[28]Verified Polygraph Examinations in Poland: An Historical Outline
Confirms first polygraph application in a Polish criminal case in 1963 and 2003 amendment to Code of Penal Procedure authorizing polygraph examinations. Lithuania represents another noteworthy case in continental Europe, having utilized polygraph examinations since 1992, primarily employing the Event Knowledge Test in law enforcement applications [29]Verified Polygraph Examination in Lithuania: History, Legal Framework, and Practice
Confirms Lithuania's polygraph use since 1992, primarily employing the Event Knowledge Test in law enforcement, with dedicated Polygraph Law regulating its application.

In each of these international contexts, the procedural framework established by ASTM E2062 — with its emphasis on examiner qualifications, standardized procedures, informed consent, and quality assurance — provides a common reference point for professional practice. For an example of how standards are applied in African jurisdictions, see our guide on polygraph testing in Namibia.

ASTM Standards and APA Standards of Practice

ASTM E2062 and the APA Standards of Practice serve complementary but distinct roles in the polygraph profession. ASTM standards are developed through a formal consensus process that includes non-polygraph stakeholders, giving them a broader base of legitimacy. APA standards, by contrast, are developed specifically by and for polygraph professionals, allowing for more detailed technical guidance.

In practice, the two systems are highly compatible. The APA references ASTM standards in its own publications, and many APA requirements mirror or exceed ASTM specifications. For example, both systems require a minimum of 400 hours of training for entry-level examiners [18]Verified APA Accredited Training Program Requirements
Confirms APA-accredited programs require minimum 400 hours of in-residence study, completed in 10 to 17 weeks, with 95% instruction by recognized faculty, both mandate informed consent, and both require comprehensive documentation of examination procedures and results.

The key difference is in scope and enforcement. ASTM standards are voluntary and carry no inherent enforcement mechanism — compliance depends on adoption by regulatory bodies, agencies, or organizations. APA standards, while also technically voluntary, carry the weight of the profession's primary credentialing body and can be enforced through APA membership requirements and the accreditation process. State licensing boards may reference either or both systems in their regulatory frameworks.

Comparison with International Standards

Internationally, polygraph practice standards vary considerably. The ISOPE Standards of Practice explicitly reference ASTM standards E1954, E2000, E2063, E2439, E2229, and E2062 [5]Verified Standards of Practice — International Society of Polygraph Examiners
Confirms ISOPE references ASTM standards E1954, E2000, E2063, E2439, E2229, and E2062 in its Standards of Practice, demonstrating the global reach of ASTM's framework. The British and European Polygraph Association (BEPA), established in 2008, similarly promotes high standards of professionalism consistent with ASTM and APA requirements.

Some countries have developed their own regulatory frameworks that parallel or incorporate elements of ASTM standards. Poland's legal framework, for instance, while not explicitly referencing ASTM standards, establishes procedural requirements for polygraph examinations in criminal proceedings that align with many E2062 principles [27]Verified Polygraph Examination in Poland. History, Law, Experimental Research, and Practice
Confirms Poland's first polygraph examination in a criminal case in 1963 and explicit legal authorization through 2003 amendment to Code of Penal Procedure. Similarly, Lithuania's Polygraph Law regulates the extent of polygraph usage, qualified institutions, examiner requirements, and testing conditions [29]Verified Polygraph Examination in Lithuania: History, Legal Framework, and Practice
Confirms Lithuania's polygraph use since 1992, primarily employing the Event Knowledge Test in law enforcement, with dedicated Polygraph Law regulating its application.

The Connecticut POST Standardized Polygraph Exam Protocol provides an example of how individual U.S. states have developed protocols that reflect ASTM principles — learn more in our Connecticut POST protocol guide. The Georgia Polygraph Association and North Carolina Polygraph Association provide additional examples of state-level standards organizations.

Withdrawal of PDD Standards in 2025-2026

Several ASTM PDD standards have been withdrawn in recent years. ASTM E2000 (minimum education and training) was withdrawn in 2014 [14]Verified ASTM E2000-05 Standard Guide for Minimum Basic Education and Training
Confirms E2000 covered minimum education and training requirements for PDD examiners; withdrawn 2014. ASTM E2439 (instrumentation) was withdrawn in 2025 [11]Verified ASTM E2439-09(2016) Standard Guide for Instrumentation, Sensors and Operating Software
Confirms E2439 covers minimum instrumentation requirements for PDD, under Committee E52, withdrawn 2025. ASTM E2031 (quality control) was withdrawn in 2025 [16]Verified ASTM E2031-99(2016) Standard Practice for Quality Control of PDD Examinations
Confirms quality control review procedures including requirement that reviewer attest in writing whether data supports original conclusion; withdrawn 2025. ASTM E2062 itself, along with E2324 (paired testing) and E2386 (screening examinations), was withdrawn in 2026 [4]Verified ASTM Forensic Science Standards — Complete Listing
Confirms E2062-11(2017) withdrawn 2026, along with multiple other PDD standards including E2324 and E2386.

Under ASTM's rules, a standard that is not reapproved within the required review cycle is subject to withdrawal [7]Verified ASTM International — What to Expect (Consumer Participation)
Confirms ASTM standards review cycle: reviewed every 5 years, withdrawn if not reapproved after 8 years; over 35,000 members worldwide. The withdrawal of these PDD standards does not reflect a rejection of their content — rather, it reflects the challenges of maintaining active participation in the ASTM standards development process. Committee E52's relatively small membership of approximately 22 members [2]Verified Committee E52 on Forensic Psychophysiology
Confirms E52 was formed in 1996, has approximately 22 members, jurisdiction over 7 standards, and meets twice yearly means that sustaining the regular review and balloting process across multiple standards requires significant volunteer effort.

Despite their withdrawal, these ASTM standards remain publicly available for informational purposes and continue to serve as authoritative references for professional practice. Polygraph professionals, agencies, and training programs that built their protocols around ASTM standards continue to rely on these documents as foundational references.

The Continuing Legacy of ASTM E2062

The withdrawal of ASTM E2062 does not diminish its significance to the polygraph profession. The standard's core principles — examiner competency, standardized procedures, informed consent, comprehensive documentation, ethical conduct, and quality assurance — represent enduring values that will continue to guide professional practice regardless of the standard's active status.

Professional organizations including the APA, ISOPE, EPA, and BEPA continue to maintain and develop their own standards of practice that reflect the principles codified in E2062. The APA's ongoing accreditation of training programs, its standards of practice documents, and its continuing education requirements all incorporate elements that trace their origins to the ASTM framework.

For professionals seeking the most current guidance, the APA Standards of Practice and the relevant policies of their employing agencies or state licensing boards provide the primary authoritative references. However, ASTM E2062 remains an essential historical document that shaped the modern profession and established the procedural foundations upon which current standards are built. Understanding the polygraph examination disqualification process and other procedural details still draws on the framework E2062 established.