A failed pre-employment result is not always the end of the road; this guide explains how to appeal the outcome and what steps may follow a lie detector test.
A failed pre-employment polygraph doesn't have to end your career aspirations. This in-depth guide covers every available option for appealing, challenging, or overcoming a deceptive polygraph result during law enforcement, federal, or government hiring processes — from formal agency appeals to independent examinations and legal remedies.
TL;DR — The Short Version
- Appeals are possible — Most federal agencies and law enforcement departments have formal appeal procedures for candidates who fail pre-employment polygraphs.
- Act quickly — Appeal windows typically range from 30 to 90 days from notification of a deceptive result.
- Document everything — Request your results, note procedural irregularities, gather medical records, and consider an independent polygraph exam.
- Know your rights — The Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA) protects most private-sector applicants; government applicants have agency-specific protections.
- Medical conditions matter — Anxiety disorders, heart conditions, thyroid disorders, medications, and sleep deprivation can all produce physiological responses that may be scored as deceptive.
- Legal counsel helps — An employment attorney experienced in polygraph cases can significantly strengthen your appeal.
- Reapplication is an option — Even if an appeal fails, most agencies allow reapplication after a waiting period, typically ranging from one to two years.
Who This Guide Is For
- Job applicants who received a deceptive result on a pre-employment polygraph for law enforcement, federal, or government positions
- Candidates preparing for a pre-employment polygraph who want to understand their appeal options in advance
- Attorneys representing clients in employment disputes involving polygraph testing
- HR professionals and hiring managers who oversee polygraph-based screening programs
- Military applicants or intelligence community candidates who failed a national security polygraph
- Private-sector job applicants who believe an employer illegally required a polygraph test
Understanding Pre-Employment Polygraph Failures
What a 'Failed' Polygraph Actually Means
When someone says they "failed" a polygraph test, they typically mean the polygraph examiner rendered an opinion of Deception Indicated (DI) based on their analysis of the physiological data collected during the examination. It is critical to understand that a polygraph does not directly detect lies. Rather, it measures physiological responses — changes in blood pressure, respiration patterns, electrodermal activity (skin conductance), and sometimes movement — that the examiner interprets within the context of specific questions Verified Polygraph Test Costs: Expert Guide (2025)
Confirms average polygraph test cost of $400-$1,200 in the United States with a national average of approximately $800. The quality of the pre-test interview and question review process is essential to avoid these issues.
Sleep Deprivation, Physical State, and Environmental Factors
Sleep deprivation significantly impairs the body's physiological regulation systems and can distort polygraph readings. Candidates who stayed up all night worrying about their test, or who traveled across time zones to reach the testing location, may produce unreliable data. Similarly, dehydration, hunger, caffeine overconsumption, and recent alcohol use can all affect results.
The testing environment itself can also affect outcomes. An uncomfortable chair, extreme room temperature, distracting noises, or an overly long testing session can all produce physiological responses unrelated to deception. At CBP, for instance, polygraph screening averages about four hours, though the actual time applicants spend connected to the device is limited to 10- to 15-minute intervals [18]Verified Do 'Lie Detectors' Work? - American Psychological Association
Confirms APA meta-analysis reported 89% accuracy rate, and NRC 2003 finding that CQT testing could identify lies about 70% of the time.
Examiner Error or Bias
While polygraph examiners are trained professionals, they are human and subject to error. Errors can occur in sensor placement, question formulation, pre-test interview technique, chart interpretation, and numerical scoring. Research on computerized scoring systems has specifically identified that examiners' judgments can be influenced by biases as well as personal factors such as fatigue and stress, potentially affecting the accuracy of test results [19]Verified To Tell the Truth: A Short History of the Polygraph
Confirms historical use of federal polygraphs and that APA reports over 90% accuracy for properly performed tests.
The development of computerized scoring systems like OSS-3 and PolyScore was driven partly by the desire to reduce this subjectivity. Studies have shown that OSS-3 accuracy exceeded the average decision accuracy of 10 human scorers on multiple dimensions [20]Verified Huge Number of Border Agent Candidates Failing DHS Polygraphs
Confirms Border Patrol union reports that half to two-thirds of CBP applicants fail the polygraph.
Your Legal Rights Under the EPPA and State Laws
The Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA)
The Employee Polygraph Protection Act of 1988 (EPPA) is the primary federal law governing polygraph use in the private sector. It generally prohibits most private employers from using polygraph tests for pre-employment screening or during employment. However, the EPPA contains significant exemptions that are critical to understand:
Government exemption: Federal, state, and local government agencies are exempt from the EPPA. This means law enforcement agencies, intelligence agencies, and other government entities can legally require polygraph testing as a condition of employment.
National defense exemption: Private contractors working with the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy, the CIA, or the NSA can require polygraph testing for employees who would have access to classified information.
Security service exemption: Private security firms (armored car companies, alarm services, security guard companies) can administer polygraph tests to applicants and employees.
Pharmaceutical exemption: Companies that manufacture, distribute, or dispense controlled substances can use polygraph testing.
If you are a private-sector applicant whose employer is NOT covered by one of these exemptions and you were required to take a polygraph, the employer likely violated the EPPA. Civil actions under the EPPA must be brought within three years of the date of the alleged violation. Remedies may include employment, reinstatement, promotion, and payment of lost wages and benefits.
State-Level Polygraph Laws
Many states have their own laws governing polygraph testing that provide additional protections beyond the EPPA. Some states restrict employer use of polygraphs even in situations the EPPA would allow. Notable examples include:
Massachusetts (M.G.L. Chapter 149, Section 19B): Makes it unlawful for any employer to subject any employee or applicant — including those applying for employment as a police officer — to a lie detector test. All job applications in Massachusetts must include a notice stating that it is unlawful to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment.
New Jersey (N.J.S.A. 2C:40A-1): Prohibits employers from requiring employees or prospective employees to take lie detector tests as a condition of employment, though the law does include exceptions for employers authorized to handle controlled dangerous substances.
Oregon, Minnesota, Delaware, Maryland, and Iowa also have state laws restricting employer polygraph use beyond federal protections.
If you are applying to a state or local law enforcement agency, the EPPA government exemption applies, but state-specific procedural requirements may still govern how the test must be administered, how results can be used, and what appeal rights you have. Checking your state's specific laws is an essential early step in any appeal.
Due Process and Civil Service Protections
Applicants to government positions may have additional protections under civil service rules and regulations. Many agencies are required to provide written notification of a deceptive result, the basis for the determination, and information about the appeal process. Federal employees and applicants may also have recourse through the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) or their agency's Inspector General if they believe testing procedures were improper.
Federal News Network reports that if you fail a federal polygraph exam, you are permitted to appeal the results. However, obtaining the actual results typically requires a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request.
The Step-by-Step Appeal Process
A Systematic Framework for Your Appeal
While the specific appeal process varies by agency, the following framework applies broadly to most federal and law enforcement pre-employment polygraph appeals. Acting quickly and systematically is essential — delays can cost you your appeal window.
Step 1 — Request Your Results in Writing: Immediately after being notified of a deceptive result, request formal written notification of your polygraph outcome. Ask specifically for the examiner's name and credentials, the date and location of the test, the specific questions on which deception was indicated, the scoring methodology used, and the agency's appeal policy and deadline. Under many agency policies and some state laws, you are entitled to this information.
Step 2 — Document Everything Immediately: While the experience is fresh in your memory, write a detailed account of the entire polygraph session. Include the pre-test interview questions and your answers, the exact wording of each polygraph question, any environmental issues (room temperature, noise, equipment problems), the examiner's demeanor and conduct, any statements made during or after the test, the duration of the exam, and whether you were offered breaks.
Step 3 — Review the Agency's Appeal Policy: Every agency has different appeal procedures. Some allow a simple written appeal; others require specific forms. Some permit retesting; others only allow chart review by a different examiner. Find the official policy — it may be in your application materials, the agency's website, or in documentation you signed before the test. Pay close attention to deadlines, required documentation, and who within the agency handles appeals.
Step 4 — File Your Formal Appeal Within the Deadline: Draft and submit your formal appeal letter within the specified timeframe. Your appeal should be professional, factual, and comprehensive. Include a clear statement that you are appealing the deceptive finding, specific procedural concerns or irregularities you observed, any relevant medical documentation, a request for a retest or chart review, and supporting character references.
Step 5 — Obtain Medical Documentation: If you have any medical conditions, mental health conditions, or take any medications that could have affected your results, gather documentation from your healthcare providers. A letter from your physician or psychiatrist explaining how your condition or medication could impact physiological responses is powerful supporting evidence.
Step 6 — Consider an Independent Polygraph Examination: Scheduling a private polygraph examination with a certified, independent examiner can provide supporting evidence. Choose an examiner trained to APA standards who uses accepted testing methodologies and has experience with pre-employment screening protocols. More on this below.
Step 7 — Consult with an Employment Attorney: If your appeal is denied, or if you believe testing procedures violated applicable laws, consulting with an attorney experienced in employment law and polygraph testing is advisable.
Step 8 — Follow Up and Maintain Communication: After submitting your appeal, maintain professional communication with the agency. Follow up at reasonable intervals and keep copies of all correspondence.
Agency-Specific Appeal Procedures
FBI Polygraph Appeals
The FBI uses polygraph testing extensively for both special agent candidates and other positions requiring security clearances. The FBI requires all applicants to pass a polygraph exam as part of the employment process. If you receive a Deception Indicated result, you will typically receive written notification. The FBI has an internal review process where your charts may be reviewed by a different examiner or quality control unit.
It is important to note that the FBI shares polygraph information through the Scattered Castles database for intelligence community positions and other interagency systems. A failed FBI polygraph may be visible to other agencies, which underscores the importance of a successful appeal. The FBI's polygraph failure rate is approximately 35-40%, significantly lower than some other agencies, which reflects the agency's relatively well-calibrated approach. For historical context on the FBI's evolving polygraph practices, see our guide on the FBI polygraph program from Hoover to the modern era.
CBP and Border Patrol Polygraph Appeals
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is one of the largest users of pre-employment polygraphs in the federal government, conducting 78% of the Department of Homeland Security's screening polygraph exams in fiscal year 2016. The Anti-Border Corruption Act of 2010 requires all CBP law enforcement officer candidates to undergo polygraph testing.
CBP's polygraph program has faced significant scrutiny over its historically high failure rates. In 2010, CBP's Assistant Commissioner for Internal Affairs testified before Congress that approximately 60% of candidates failed the polygraph. By 2017, the Associated Press reported the failure rate had risen to approximately 65%, more than double the average at other federal law enforcement agencies. The Border Patrol union president stated that half to two-thirds of applicants continue to fail.
CBP has a quality assurance review process — a polygraph result is not considered final until quality control personnel review, concur with, and certify the examiner's results. Applicants who fail can retake the exam after 2 years. Those with inconclusive results may be invited to retake the exam sooner. For complete preparation guidance, visit our CBP polygraph exam candidate guide. Candidates applying to other DHS components should also review our DHS polygraph exam guide.
Secret Service, DEA, and ATF Appeals
The Secret Service polygraph process is rigorous, with failure rates reported at approximately 35%. Candidates who receive a deceptive result should contact their point of contact in the Personnel Division to inquire about the appeals process. The Secret Service typically allows chart review by a supervisory examiner who was not involved in the original test.
The Drug Enforcement Administration requires polygraph examinations for special agent candidates, with failure rates around 36%. The DEA's internal policies govern the appeal process, and candidates should request information from the DEA's Human Resources Division.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) uses polygraph testing for special agents. ATF candidates who fail should contact the ATF's Human Resources Operations Division. The ATF generally follows Department of Justice polygraph quality assurance standards.
State and Local Police Department Appeals
Appeal procedures for state and local police departments vary significantly. Some departments have formal written appeal processes; others have no formal mechanism at all. Many departments are governed by civil service commissions that may provide additional appeal rights.
If you fail a police department polygraph, check the department's written polygraph policy (often available through public records requests), contact the civil service commission or human resources department, review any collective bargaining agreements if applicable, and check state laws that may require appeal rights for applicants.
The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) standards state that polygraph examinations should never be used as a sole determinant of employment status, but rather as "an investigative aid to be considered with other information". For more detailed preparation guidance, see our police polygraph exam guide and state police polygraph exam guide.
Getting an Independent Polygraph Examination
Why an Independent Polygraph Can Strengthen Your Appeal
One of the most impactful steps you can take in supporting your appeal is to undergo a private polygraph examination conducted by an independent, professional examiner. While agencies are not obligated to accept outside polygraph results, a passing result on an independent test can demonstrate your willingness to be transparent and submit to additional testing, provide a counter-data point to the agency's deceptive finding, and highlight potential issues with the original examination if the questions and format were comparable.
Choosing an Independent Examiner and Understanding Costs
When selecting an independent examiner, choose someone who is a member of the American Polygraph Association (APA) or a state polygraph association, uses accepted and validated testing methodologies, has experience with pre-employment screening protocols, and uses current computerized scoring systems such as OSS-3 or PolyScore alongside manual scoring.
Independent polygraph examinations typically cost between $400 and $1,200, with a national average around $800 for a single-issue exam. Basic screenings may start as low as $200, while comprehensive multi-issue examinations can reach $2,500 depending on complexity and location. While this represents a significant investment, a passing result can be invaluable to your appeal. For current pricing in your area, visit our polygraph test prices page or book a polygraph test directly through our site.
Building Your Appeal Documentation Package
Essential Components of a Strong Appeal
A comprehensive appeal documentation package should include a formal appeal letter addressing the specific agency's appeal criteria, detailed contemporaneous notes of the polygraph session, medical documentation from healthcare providers (if applicable), results from an independent polygraph examination (if obtained), character references from supervisors, colleagues, or community leaders, copies of all communications with the agency, and any evidence of procedural irregularities during testing.
Your appeal letter should be professional and factual — avoid emotional language or accusations. Focus on demonstrable facts: specific procedural concerns, documented medical conditions that could affect results, and concrete evidence supporting your truthfulness. If you are researching polygraphs before your test, know that this is perfectly acceptable and demonstrates good preparation.
Legal Options and When to Hire an Attorney
When Legal Counsel Is Essential
Consider hiring an attorney experienced in employment law and polygraph testing if your administrative appeal is denied and you believe the denial was improper, you suspect the testing violated EPPA requirements or applicable state laws, you were a private-sector applicant whose employer was not covered by an EPPA exemption, you believe your civil rights were violated during the testing process, or you want to pursue a formal complaint through the agency's Inspector General.
For private-sector EPPA violations, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of the violation. Available remedies include employment, reinstatement, promotion, payment of lost wages and benefits, and civil money penalties against the employer. The Secretary of Labor is authorized to file suit to enforce the EPPA, and individuals may also file their own private suits in federal or state court.
Reapplication Strategies After a Failed Polygraph
Waiting Periods and Preparation
Even if an appeal is unsuccessful, most agencies allow reapplication after a waiting period. Based on available public information, typical waiting periods include:
CBP/Border Patrol: 2 years after a failed polygraph. CBP polygraph results are generally valid for two years, and applicants are eligible to retake the exam after that period.
FBI: Typically 12-24 months, though specific policies may vary by position.
DEA, Secret Service, ATF: Generally 1-2 years, varying by agency policy.
State and Local Police: Varies widely; some departments allow retesting within 6 months, others require 1-2 years.
During the waiting period, address any factors that may have contributed to your initial result. If anxiety was a factor, consider working with a mental health professional to develop coping strategies. If medical conditions played a role, work with your physician to document and manage these conditions. Review our article on whether you can get another job after failing a lie detector test for additional guidance.
Importantly, failing a polygraph with one agency does not necessarily prevent you from applying to other agencies. Other agencies can request the status of your application process, but the results do not automatically preclude you from other positions. As new screening technologies develop, some candidates may also encounter alternatives — learn about EyeDetect in law enforcement as one such emerging tool.
Request Your Results in Writing
Immediately after notification, request formal written details including the examiner's credentials, specific questions flagged, scoring methodology, and the agency's appeal policy and deadline.
Document the Entire Session
Write a detailed contemporaneous account of everything that happened — pre-test interview questions, exact wording of polygraph questions, environmental conditions, examiner conduct, session duration, and any irregularities.
Review the Agency's Appeal Policy
Locate the official appeal procedures in your application materials, the agency website, or documentation signed before testing. Note deadlines, required forms, and the specific office that handles appeals.
File Your Formal Appeal
Submit a professional, factual appeal within the deadline. Include a clear statement appealing the deceptive finding, procedural concerns, medical documentation, and a request for retest or chart review.
Gather Medical Documentation
If you have any conditions or take medications that could affect physiological responses, obtain documentation from your healthcare provider explaining the potential impact on polygraph results.
Schedule an Independent Polygraph
Take a private polygraph with an examiner trained to APA standards using validated methodology. A passing result provides a counter-data point and demonstrates transparency. Costs typically range from $400-$1,200.
Consult an Employment Attorney
If your appeal is denied or you believe testing procedures violated laws or regulations, consult an attorney experienced in employment law and polygraph testing for further options.
Follow Up and Prepare for Reapplication
Maintain professional communication with the agency. If the appeal fails, prepare for reapplication after the waiting period by addressing any factors that may have contributed to the initial result.
Pros
- Most federal agencies have formal appeal procedures that give candidates a genuine opportunity to challenge deceptive findings
- Independent polygraph examinations can provide powerful counter-evidence and demonstrate your commitment to transparency
- Medical documentation of conditions affecting physiological responses can provide compelling grounds for appeal
- Quality control review processes at agencies like CBP require multiple examiners to independently verify results
- Computerized scoring algorithms like OSS-3 provide more objective analysis that can identify scoring discrepancies
- EPPA provides strong legal protections for private-sector employees who were improperly required to take polygraph tests
- A failed polygraph at one agency does not automatically disqualify you from positions at other agencies
Cons
- Appeal windows are often short (30-90 days), requiring candidates to act quickly
- Some agencies have limited or informal appeal processes, making challenges more difficult
- Independent polygraph exams cost $400-$1,200 out of pocket and are not guaranteed to change the outcome
- Failed FBI polygraph results may be visible to other intelligence community agencies through shared databases
- Reapplication waiting periods of 1-2 years can significantly delay career plans
- Government applicants are exempt from EPPA protections, limiting legal remedies for procedural issues
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I appeal a failed pre-employment polygraph test?
Yes, most federal agencies and many law enforcement departments have formal appeal procedures for candidates who receive a Deception Indicated result. The specific process varies by agency, but generally involves requesting your results, filing a written appeal within the deadline (typically 30-90 days), and potentially undergoing chart review or retesting. Acting quickly is essential, as missing the appeal window may forfeit your rights.
How much does an independent polygraph cost for an appeal?
Independent polygraph examinations typically cost between $400 and $1,200, with a national average of approximately $800 for a single-issue exam. Basic screenings may start as low as $200, while complex multi-issue examinations can reach $2,500. Choose an examiner trained to APA standards who uses validated testing methodologies such as OSS-3 or PolyScore computerized scoring.
Will failing a CBP polygraph prevent me from getting other federal jobs?
Not automatically. While other agencies can request the status of your application process with CBP, a failed polygraph does not preclude you from applying for other positions. Many candidates who fail a CBP polygraph successfully obtain positions with other federal agencies. CBP's failure rate of 60-65% is significantly higher than other agencies like the FBI (35-40%) and Secret Service (approximately 35%), suggesting the issue may relate to CBP's specific testing approach rather than the candidate's suitability.
How long do I have to wait before retaking a CBP polygraph?
According to the DHS Office of Inspector General, CBP applicants who fail the polygraph can retake the exam after 2 years. If a test result is inconclusive rather than a failure, CBP may invite applicants to retake the exam sooner. During the waiting period, address any factors that may have contributed to your initial result.
Can medical conditions cause a false positive on a polygraph?
Yes. Research has established that numerous medical conditions affecting the autonomic nervous system can impact polygraph readings. Conditions including heart disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disorders, and chronic pain can alter physiological responses. Medications such as beta-blockers, anti-anxiety drugs, and blood pressure medications can also affect results. If you have any such conditions, obtaining documentation from your healthcare provider is essential for your appeal.
Does the EPPA protect me if I'm applying to a government law enforcement agency?
No. The Employee Polygraph Protection Act specifically exempts federal, state, and local government agencies. This means law enforcement agencies and intelligence agencies can legally require polygraph testing. However, you may still have protections under your state's polygraph laws, civil service regulations, and the agency's own internal policies and appeal procedures.
Can I be prosecuted for failing a polygraph?
You cannot be prosecuted simply for receiving a Deception Indicated result on a polygraph — the result itself is an opinion, not evidence of a crime. However, if during the polygraph process you make admissions of criminal conduct to a federal examiner, those admissions could potentially be used against you. This is why it's important to be truthful throughout the process without volunteering unnecessary information.
What is the success rate of polygraph appeals?
Exact success rates for polygraph appeals are not publicly reported by most agencies. However, successful appeals do occur, particularly when candidates can demonstrate procedural irregularities, provide medical documentation of conditions affecting results, or present passing results from independent examinations. Working with an experienced employment attorney can significantly improve your chances.
Should I take an independent polygraph before or after filing my appeal?
Ideally, you should take an independent polygraph as soon as possible after receiving your deceptive result, even before filing the formal appeal. This ensures you have the results available to include in your appeal documentation. However, do not delay filing your appeal past the deadline while waiting for independent test results — you can supplement your appeal with additional evidence after filing.
Can the spy cases like Ana Montes prove the polygraph is unreliable?
Cases like Ana Montes, who passed a DIA counterintelligence polygraph in 1994 while spying for Cuba, and Aldrich Ames, who passed CIA polygraphs while spying for Russia, demonstrate that polygraphs are not infallible — particularly that they can produce false negatives. These cases underscore that polygraph results should be considered alongside other investigative information, not as a sole determinant. For your appeal, these cases support the argument that polygraph results are not definitive indicators of truthfulness or deception. Learn more in our article on Ana Montes and the DIA polygraph.
Where can I book a lie detector test near me?
Sources & References
Confirms NRC's 2003 conclusion that polygraph tests discriminate lying from truth telling at rates above chance but below perfection, and that screening accuracy is lower than specific-incident accuracy
Foundational research on the psychological impact of failed polygraph results and their role in eliciting confessions
Confirms approximately 70,000 federal polygraph examinations annually as of 2013, and that multiple states ban employer polygraph use
Confirms OSS-3 as a validated computerized polygraph scoring algorithm with demonstrable validity across multiple samples
Confirms PolyScore was developed by Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory and identifies major computerized scoring systems including OSS-3 and CPS
Confirms that medical conditions affecting the autonomic nervous system can significantly impact polygraph results, including rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes
Confirms EPPA prohibitions, government exemptions, and regulatory framework for polygraph use in private employment
Confirms EPPA civil actions must be brought within three years of the alleged violation (29 U.S.C. §§ 2004-2005)
Confirms Massachusetts law prohibits all employer polygraph use, including for police officer applicants
Confirms New Jersey prohibits employer-required lie detector tests with limited exceptions for controlled substance employers
Confirms CBP quality control process, that applicants who fail can retake after 2 years, and that CBP conducted 78% of DHS screening polygraph exams in FY2016
Confirms CBP internal affairs official testified that approximately 60% of candidates failed the polygraph in 2010
Confirms CBP polygraph failure rate of approximately 67%, compared to 35% at Secret Service and 40% at FBI
Confirms the law requiring all CBP law enforcement applicants to receive polygraph examinations before hiring
Confirms CBP polygraph screening since 2008, Anti-Border Corruption Act of 2010, and details of CBP's polygraph streamlining efforts
Confirms applicants who fail federal polygraph exams can appeal, and that FOIA requests may be needed to obtain results
Confirms APA meta-analysis reported 89% accuracy rate, and NRC 2003 finding that CQT testing could identify lies about 70% of the time
Confirms historical use of federal polygraphs and that APA reports over 90% accuracy for properly performed tests
Confirms Border Patrol union reports that half to two-thirds of CBP applicants fail the polygraph
Confirms PolyScore was developed by Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory and identifies major computerized scoring systems including OSS-3 and CPS, and that examiners' judgments can be influenced by personal factors such as fatigue and stress.
Confirms APA meta-analysis reported 89% accuracy rate for polygraph tests, and NRC 2003 finding that CQT testing could identify lies about 70% of the time.
Confirms CBP internal affairs official (James Tomsheck) testified in March 2010 that approximately 60% of candidates failed the polygraph.
Confirms CBP polygraph failure rate of approximately 67%, compared to 35% at Secret Service and 40% at FBI, citing 2017 AP reporting.
Confirms the Anti-Border Corruption Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-376) requiring all CBP law enforcement applicants to receive polygraph examinations before hiring.
Confirms CBP polygraph screening since 2008, Anti-Border Corruption Act of 2010, and that CBP polygraph screening averages about four hours with 10- to 15-minute intervals attached to the device.
Confirms applicants who fail federal polygraph exams can appeal, and that FOIA requests may be needed to obtain results.
Confirms historical use of federal polygraphs, that the FBI requires all applicants to pass a polygraph exam, and that the APA reports over 90% accuracy for properly performed tests.
Confirms average polygraph test cost of $400-$1,200 in the United States with a national average of approximately $800, with basic screenings starting at $200 and comprehensive exams reaching $2,500.
Confirms that medical conditions affecting the autonomic nervous system can significantly impact polygraph results, including approximately 60% of patients with rheumatoid arthritis having blunted cardiovagal responses, and patients with diabetes mellitus often having elevated resting heart rates.
Confirms Border Patrol union president Brandon Judd reported that half to two-thirds of CBP applicants fail the polygraph.
Confirms OSS-3 as a validated computerized polygraph scoring algorithm with demonstrable validity across multiple samples, developed by Nelson, Handler, and Krapohl.
Confirms CBP quality control process requires multiple examiners to independently verify results, that applicants who fail can retake after 2 years, and that CBP conducted 78% of DHS screening polygraph exams in FY2016.
If you're rebuilding after a failed screening, a fresh practice exam can help, so find a lie detector test near you and review pricing before you reapply.