If you’re getting winded just reading the exercises, we highly recommend you start training now to get into top physical condition by the time of your evaluation. This is a physically strenuous test designed to simulate the actual physical demands officers face.

Candidates who wish to improve on specific areas and train before starting the process can practice the PAT at the San Diego Police Plaza, 4020 Murphy Canyon Rd, San Diego, CA 92123. The facility is open to aspiring applicants the first Saturday of every month from 10 - 11 a.m. and every Thursday from 12 - 1 p.m.

NOTE: Practices are subject to cancelation due to inclement weather without notice, so check the forecast.

The PAT is a fitness test modeled after the California P.O.S.T. Work Sample Test Battery the police academy uses. It was specifically developed to determine which candidates meet the broad range of physical abilities necessary to become SDPD officers.

Candidates are required to pass the following challenges:

• Run a 99-yard obstacle course consisting of several sharp turns, curb-height obstacles, and a 34-inch high obstacle that must be vaulted
• Lift and drag a 165-pound dummy for 32 feet
• Run five yards to a six-foot chain link fence, climb over the fence, and continue running another 25 yards
• Run five yards to a six-foot solid fence, climb over the fence, and continue running another 25 yards
• Complete a 500-yard run

What to Wear

Wear shorts and loose-fitting clothes that do not restrict arm or leg movements, and comfortable footwear. Athletic shoes with gripping rubber soles are best and bring water.

For a detailed look at our PAT course, we have a video you can look at.

San Diego Police Department – Physical Abilities Test

Apply online: JoinSDPDNow.com

Questions? Contact us at sdpdrecruiting@pd.sandiego.gov