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Georgia has a long tradition of polygraph use across law enforcement, government, and private sectors. For individuals interested in pursuing a career as a polygraph examiner, Georgia offers rigorous training pathways designed to meet both state licensing standards and the requirements of national professional associations.
This article outlines the polygraph training process in Georgia, including the basic curriculum, advanced coursework, and continuing education expected of today’s examiners.
What Is Polygraph Training?
Polygraph training is a specialized educational process that prepares examiners to conduct credibility assessments using validated scientific methods. Training includes both classroom instruction and practical fieldwork.
Examiners in Georgia are expected to master:
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The psychology and physiology of human responses to questioning.
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Validated formats for constructing test questions.
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Proper operation of modern computerized polygraph instruments.
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Test data analysis, including detection of countermeasures.
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Legal and ethical responsibilities of examiners.
Basic Polygraph Examiner Course (400 Hours)
The entry-level requirement for examiners is the Basic Polygraph Examiner Course, which in Georgia typically runs for 10 weeks of full-time study, totaling 400 classroom hours.
Key elements include:
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Classroom Modules: Covering psychology, physiology, ethics, history of deception detection, and mechanics of instrument operation.
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Practical Work: Regular charting practice and mock polygraph examinations.
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Examinations: Weekly written tests and a final written and practical exam, with a minimum passing grade of 75%.
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Attendance: Students must attend nearly all classroom hours; missing more than 10% can prevent graduation.
Graduates receive a Course Completion Certificate and advance to supervised fieldwork.
Field Training and Advanced Requirements
After completing the classroom course, Georgia examiner candidates are required to:
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Conduct Supervised Field Exams: Usually ten polygraph examinations reviewed for professional quality.
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Complete Advanced Training: Within 12 months of graduation, at least 40 hours of advanced instruction are expected, such as PCSOT (Post-Conviction Sex Offender Testing) or advanced proficiency courses.
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Earn Accredited Status: Once advanced coursework and acceptable field exams are submitted, graduates may receive an Accredited Graduate Diploma.
Advanced and Continuing Education in Georgia
Examiners in Georgia can enhance their careers and maintain licensure through ongoing education:
🔹 PCSOT Course (40 Hours)
Specialized training for working with probation, parole, and treatment programs. Approved by the APA, this course is mandatory for those conducting post-conviction testing.
🔹 Advanced Proficiency Training (32+ Hours)
For examiners with field experience, this program emphasizes compliance with APA Standards of Practice, forensic science recommendations (NIST, AAFS, ASTM), and evidence-based methods.
🔹 Continuing Education
Licensed examiners in Georgia must complete periodic CE hours to stay current with advances in research, ethics, and polygraph technology.
Career Opportunities for Polygraph Examiners in Georgia
Graduates of polygraph training in Georgia may pursue careers in:
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Law Enforcement: Police departments, corrections, and investigative units.
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Legal System Support: Working with attorneys and in civil cases.
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Private Sector: Employment screening, family-related cases, and corporate investigations.
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Specialized Risk Assessment: PCSOT and high-risk offender management.
Take the Next Step
Polygraph training in Georgia requires commitment, discipline, and dedication to professional ethics. The journey begins with the 400-hour Basic Examiner Course and continues through advanced study and field experience.
📌 If you are considering enrolling in a polygraph training program in Georgia, contact us today. We can connect you with accredited resources and help you take the first step toward becoming a certified examiner.
