Testing Locations

[uoplax13]

Thanks for the replies to my last post, and on to my question..... I am prepared to take some flak for this, so fire away. Back in college I smoked some marijuana a couple of times. A month or two ago I called up a recruiter in Sacramento to ask about time periods and getting DQ'd. He told me that since the last time I smoked was in January of 2004, I should be okay to apply in Jan. 2006. I have a friend that's an officer, and has taken me on several ride-alongs so far (good times, interesting stories...). He suggested that I go ahead and put an application in already, because by the time they get to it, it will probably already be January. I'm a little hesitant to take his advice because I don't want to get DQ'd and have to wait for the next cycle. I read somewhere online that you won't even be scheduled for a written unless it's been at least two years since your last marijuana use (I know it looks a little fishy with my January 04 date matching up so closely with the two years, but it's the truth). Right now I am living within the Valley Division, and believe the written exam date they have set is 12/10, putting me just short of the two years. Southern, Northern, and Golden Gate have dates scheduled for after the 4th of January, which would put me past that two year mark. If I do not live in any of those Divisions, can I still send an application and go test at one of those locations instead? Aside from ridiculous shin splints from running, I think that this will be my only major hurdle to getting hired. I know two years is a short period of time to show a real growth in maturity, especially for someone my age, but I've gone on to almost complete a Master's degree (finish in December) and have been otherwise well behaved (for lack of better wording). I look forward to some responses, thanks.

[dw]

Your recent drug use is something you will have to explain during your QAP interview. You are correct that two years is not a lot of time to show a growth in maturity -- the burden of proof is on you. This application process is extremely competitive, and the recency of your drug use may make you less competitive. Then again, it may not. The purpose of the QAP interview is to, as the title indicates, appraise your qualifications. The interview is your time to shine and your drug use will almost certainly be discussed. It sounds like you are on the right track in life -- just be prepared to explain your lapse in judgement.

You can submit an application to test in any Division. You do not have to be a resident of the Division in which you test. As long as you are willing to travel, you're welcome to test anywhere.

I'd suggest taking one of the next available tests, if for nothing else, than to get the written out of the way. You said you are close to completing your Masters, but the written throws some recent college graduates. Be sure you download the Applicant Study Guide (in the links section) and if there is any question, throw down the $25 for the Learning Express book. If you pass the written and are DQ'ed later in the process, you can reapply later and not have to take the written.

[uoplax13]

Thank you for the response. I have just filled out an application, and am dropping it in the mail tonight. Thanks.