Frequently Asked Questions for Court Officer Exam

GENERAL INFORMATION

What is the starting salary of a NYS Court Officer-Trainee?

When will the NYS Court Officer-Trainee examination be held?

Where will the NYS Court Officer-Trainee examination be held?

What are the minimum qualifications for appointment to the position?

Is there an age restriction to take the examination?

Can I still take the examination if I currently do not meet the minimum qualifications for appointment to the position?

Are there additional qualifications for appointment to the position?

When do I select locations where I would be willing to accept an appointment as a NYS Court Officer-Trainee?

Do I need to take the examination if I passed the NYS Court Officer-Trainee Examination 45-784 administered in 2014, but have not been appointed from the eligible list?

What benefits do NYS Court Officer-Trainees receive?

I am employed with New York State or New York City. Are my retirement benefits transferrable if I am appointed a NYS Court Officer-Trainee? Are my leave days transferrable?

 

FILING FOR THE EXAMINATION

When must I file the on-line application?

How do I file the on-line application?

How much is the non-refundable application filing fee and how do I pay?

I am on public assistance or unemployed. Can I have my application fee waived?

Are all the examination site locations listed on the application?

I am having technical trouble filing the on-line application. What should I do?

What are the most common on-line application filing problems and solutions?

I did not receive an Application ID Number upon filing the on-line application. What should I do?

I did not receive a confirmation e-mail after I filed the on-line application. What should I do?

I made a mistake or omitted information on my application. Do I have to submit a new application?

After submitting my application, I have a change of personal information. What should I do?

 

COVID-19 PROTOCOLS AND CONCERNS

Do I need to take a COVID-19 test or show proof of COVID-19 vaccination for entry into the test site?

Are test site staff required to routinely take a COVID-19 test or are required to have been COVID-19 vaccinated?

Under what conditions due to COVID-19 will I need to reschedule my test date?

What are the COVID-19 safety protocols and procedures at the test site?

May I bring hand sanitizer and/or disinfectant wipes with me to the test site?

 

Self-Scheduling the Examination

When will I receive the e-mail with the PSI self-scheduling link?

I have not received the e-mail containing the examination self-scheduling link between August 16, 2021 and September 3, 2021. What should I do?

When is the deadline to self-schedule for the examination?

My preferred date/test site is booked? What can I do?

I am experiencing technical issues when I attempt to self-schedule. Is there help available?

Can I reschedule my examination?

I no longer want to take the examination. What should I do?

 

Preparing for the Examination

What subject matter is on the examination?

How much time is permitted during the examination?

Is there a practice examination available?

Can you advise me how to study for the examination?

Are there recommended study guides or test prep courses?

 

At the Examination Site

What conduct is expected of me while at the test site?

How much time should I plan on being at the test site?

What kinds of photo IDs are acceptable to present at the test site?

My ID has or does not have my middle name or middle initial. Will that present a problem at the test site?

What should I bring with me to the test site?

What should I not bring with me to the test site?

Are there special test site requirements if I will be under 18 years-old on the day of my examination appointment?

Are non-applicants permitted at the test site?

I am experiencing a problem while testing. What should I do?

 

After the Examination

How long will it take to receive my examination results and what is the passing score?

If I pass the examination am I guaranteed a job?

How long will the new eligible list 45-815 be active?

Do I need to do anything after the examination?

 

Reasonable Accommodations

I require reasonable accommodations to take the examination. What is the procedure to request them?

 

Active Military

I am currently on active duty in the U.S. Military and cannot attend any session. What should I do?

 

Veteran Credit Information

I am a veteran or currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Military and wish to add Veteran Credits to my examination score. What should I do?

 

FAQs

What is the starting salary of a NYS Court Officer-Trainee?
Effective April 2020, New York State Court Officer-Trainees enter the academy with a starting salary of $51,113 (Judicial Grade 16). Location pay is $4300 for New York City, Nassau, Suffolk, Rockland, and Westchester Counties.  Location pay is $2150 for Orange, Dutchess, and Putnam Counties.  Effective April 2023, the starting salary is expected to increase 7%.back to top

 

 

 

When will the NYS Court Officer-Trainee examination be held?
The original examination period was postponed due to COVID-19 precautions. The test administration period is now scheduled from September 7, 2021 to December 10, 2021. 

 

 

 

Where will the NYS Court Officer-Trainee examination be held?
The examination will be held throughout New York State (and in some neighboring states) at PSI Test Centers. Remote and on-line testing will not be offered.

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What are the minimum qualifications for appointment to the position?
New York State Court Officer-Trainees, at time of appointment to the position, must be:
  • at least 20.5 years old
  • a high school graduate or equivalent
  • A United States Citizen
  • A resident of New York State
  • Valid New York State Driver’s License  
  • Legally eligible to purchase and carry firearms
  • Fully vaccinated against COVID-19  (Note: Vaccine mandate lifted 2/17/23.)

All of the above minimum qualifications must be met by the time of hiring to the position, not at the time of examination.   

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Is there an age restriction to take the examination?
While there is no age restriction to take the examination, keep in mind that a candidate must be at least 20.5 years old at time of appointment to the position.  It typically takes about six months after the conclusion of the examination period to establish an eligible list, and an eligible list remains active an additional four or more years.  

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Can I still take the examination if I currently do not meet the minimum qualifications for appointment to the position?
If you do not meet all the minimum qualifications for appointment to the position, you may still take the examination. It typically takes about six months after the conclusion of the examination period  to establish an eligible list, and an eligible list remains active an additional four or more years.  Therefore, some applicants may meet all the minimum qualifications for appointment prior to the eligible list expiring.

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Are there additional qualifications for appointment to the position?
Physical, medical and psychological examinations and evaluations are held to ensure that candidates can satisfactorily perform the duties of this position.  Substance abuse screening and an extensive background investigation are conducted as well.  For detailed information and requirements:http://ww2.nycourts.gov/careers/cot/screening.shtml

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When do I select locations where I would be willing to accept an appointment as a NYS Court Officer-Trainee?
When self-scheduling, you will complete an Availability Inquiry for appointment.  Please note that the Inquiry is not a job offer.  You may select ONE of four regions in New York State where you would be willing to accept an appointment as a NYS Court Officer-Trainee.  You may change the selection anytime while the resulting eligible is active.  The regions are:
  •  New York City (All boroughs)
  • 10th Judicial Districts (Long Island)
  • 9th Judicial District (Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, and Westchester counties)
  • 3rd to 8th Judicial Districts (All remaining NYS counties except those comprising the 7th Judicial District: NYS Court Officer-Trainees are NOT appointed in Monroe, Wayne, Ontario, Livingston, Yates, Seneca, Cayuga or Steuben counties)

You may refer to the Judicial District Map (http://ww2.nycourts.gov/careers/cot/where.shtml) for detailed Judicial District/county location information.

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Do I need to take the examination if I passed the NYS Court Officer-Trainee Examination 45-784 administered in 2014, but have not been appointed from the eligible list?
Yes. It is anticipated that eligible list 45-815 will be established in the first half of 2022. Once the new list is established, the old list will no longer be used.  Your name will NOT transfer from the old list. 

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What benefits do NYS Court Officer-Trainees receive?
NYS Court Officer-Trainees are eligible to participate in the New York State Health Insurance Plan and the New York State Employee’s Retirement System.  In addition, NYS Court Officer-Trainees annually earn 20 paid vacation days and 12 paid holidays.

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I am employed with New York State or New York City.  Are my retirement benefits transferrable if I am appointed a NYS Court Officer-Trainee?  Are my leave days transferrable?
There are numerous reciprocity agreements in existence.  Please contact your agency’s HR specialist.   

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When must I file the on-line application?

Applications must be filed on-line during the open-filing period, January 22, 2020 through February 26, 2020 at http://ww2.nycourts.gov/careers/COT-2020.shtml .  You are encouraged to apply early during the open-filing period. 

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How do I file the on-line application?
(The open filing period closed February 26, 2020.  No late applications can be accepted.)  Applications must be filed using the examination on-line application. Paper applications are not accepted. Please read the examination announcement before you file an application. Go to http://ww2.nycourts.gov/careers/COT-2020.shtml to access the on-line application. Note that the $30 application fee is non-refundable and non-transferrable. IF YOU DID NOT RECEIVE AN APPLICATION ID NUMBER (CONFIRMATION), YOU DID NOT FILE THE APPLICATION.

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How much is the non-refundable application filing fee and how do I pay?
A $30 non-refundable, non-transferrable application filing fee is required using a credit card (Mastercard, Visa or Discover) or reloadable debit card. Debit cards requiring a PIN are not accepted. Foreign (international) credit cards are not accepted.  

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I am on public assistance or unemployed. Can I have my application fee waived?
If you receive public assistance or are unemployed and head of your household, select the public assistance fee waived option in the Application Fee portion of the application.  You must complete the appropriate fields to qualify. Note that persons who are not head of a household, or persons who have sufficient financial means to support a household without employment (i.e. pension, savings, rental income, inheritance, etc.) are not eligible for an application fee waiver. Please note that we are unable to refund application fees to applicants who have paid the application fee but would have otherwise qualify for a fee waiver.    

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Are all the examination site locations listed on the application?
No. The drop-down box “Exam Site Preferences” is designed to simply collect applicants’ testing area preferences so we can better plan for and accommodate the very large number of applicants who will apply for the examination. Available testing locations offered when self-scheduling may therefore differ than those included on the drop-down box.  Applicants will be permitted to self-schedule their examinations at any available test site, including at test sites outside of the "Exam Site Preference" area selected on the application. Available test sites and test site addresses will be confirmed only when applicants self-schedule. 

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I am having technical trouble filing the on-line application. What should I do?

Due to the very large number of applications filed, technical support is limited and confined during regular weekday business hours via e-mail. The on-line application is user-friendly; read the instructions and complete all required fields, including the verification box, before you submit the application. We strongly recommend that you file the application early during the open-filing period so that any technical issues you may encounter can be resolved before filing closes.  IF YOU DID NOT RECEIVE AN APPLICATION ID NUMBER (CONFIRMATION), YOUR APPLICATION HAS NOT BEEN FILED.

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What are the most common on-line application filing problems and solutions?

Common application filing problems and simple solutions include:

Application lost or "goes blank" after clicking submit tab: The application times out after 45 minutes. You will need to begin and file a new application.       

Obsolete or non-compatible computer software: If you are having difficulty filing from your computer, you may wish to try from another computer.

Filing the application using a mobile device instead of a computer: Not all application fields may be visible and there is a greater chance for typing errors.

Missing required field: All required fields must be completed in the required format including the “Verification” acknowledgment tab located on the final page of the application above the “Submit Application” tab.  A red error message at the top of the application will indicate which required field is missing information. Common error messages include "violations" and "dismissals" which refer to the Legal Questions section questions.   

SSN Not Valid message: This message will sometimes appear if you go back to page one of the application to change or correct an item.  You must go back to the SSN fields and replace the ********* characters with your SSN before using the "continue" tab.        

Credit/Debit Card issues: Be sure to input the correct billing address/zip code of the credit/debit card holder. Debit cards requiring a PIN are not accepted.   Acceptable cards are Visa, Mastercard and Discover. International cards are not accepted. 

reCaptcha field not functioning: reCaptcha outages are infrequent and typically short-term.  You may attempt to re-submit filing before the application times out (45 minutes) or complete a new application at a later time. 

Application ID Number not received: The Application ID Number is your confirmation that the application has been filed. IF YOU DID NOT RECEIVE AN APPLICATION ID NUMBER, YOU DID NOT FILE THE APPLICATION. Complete a new application and be sure to file the application using the “Submit Application” tab located at the end of the application.

Confirmation E-mail not received: IF YOU DID NOT RECEIVE AN APPLICATION ID NUMBER AND YOU DID NOT RECEIVE A CONFIRMATION E-MAIL, YOU DID NOT FILE THE APPLICATION. Complete a new application and be sure to file the application using the “Submit Application” tab located at the end of the application.  If you received an Application ID Number at time of filing, but did not a confirmation e-mail within one hour, please check your junk/spam mail before contacting us about correcting or changing your e-mail address.  The Application ID Number confirms that you filed the application, but failure to receive a confirmation e-mail indicates a problem with receiving e-mail.   Be sure to add UnifiedCourtSys@nycourts.gov to your address book to ensure receipt of correspondence regarding this examination.

Your Application Has Not Been Processed confirmation message: You selected an incorrect option in the Application Fee field. You have likely selected the Unified Court System Employee fee waiver option, and you are not a Unified Court System employee. YOU MUST COMPLETE A NEW APPLICATION and either pay the application fee or select and complete the Public Assistance fee waiver option. Please note that Town and Village Court employees are not eligible for the Unified Court System fee waiver and must pay the application fee.

On-Line Application off-line: There are times when the application system may be off-line due to temporary maintenance or other technical issue. These outages are generally short-term. Simply try again later.

Remember to file your application early during the open-filing period and to wait for an Application ID number (confirmation) when you submit the on-line application.

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I did not receive an Application ID Number upon filing the on-line application. What should I do?
The Application ID Number is your confirmation that the application has been filed.   IF YOU DID NOT RECEIVE AN APPLICATION ID NUMBER, YOU DID NOT FILE THE APPLICATION.  Complete a new application and be sure to select the “Submit Application” tab located at the end of the on-line application. 

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I did not receive a confirmation e-mail after I filed the on-line application. What should I do?
IF YOU DID NOT RECEIVE AN APPLICATION ID NUMBER AND YOU DID NOT RECEIVE A CONFIRMATION E-MAIL, YOU DID NOT FILE THE APPLICATION. Complete a new application and be sure to select the “Submit Application” tab located at the end of the application.

If you received an Application ID Number at time of filing, indicating that you filed the application, but failed to receive a confirmation e-mail within one hour, there is a problem with sending or receiving e-mails.  Please check your junk/spam mail before contacting us about correcting or changing your e-mail address. Be sure to add UnifiedCourtSys@nycourts.gov to your address book to ensure receipt of correspondence regarding this examination.  Please note that there may be a delay in e-mailing your confirmation e-mail during peak server or browser times. 

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I made a mistake or omitted information on my application. Do I have to submit a new application?
If you made a mistake or omitted information on your application, e-mail UnifiedCourtSys@nycourts.gov and we will update your application. Clearly state what needs to be corrected or added. Include your complete name, Application ID Number, and Examination #45-815 on all correspondence.   

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After submitting my application, I have a change of personal information. What should I do?
It is important that you let us know of any personal information changes such as e-mail address, mailing address, phone number, or name. E-mail any changes to UnifiedCourtSys@nycourts.gov . Include your complete name, Application ID Number, and Examination #45-815 on all correspondence.     

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Do I need to take a COVID-19 test or show proof of COVID-19 vaccination for entry into the test site?
COVID-19 test and proof of vaccination are not required for entry into the test site.    

All applicants are required to complete a COVID-19 Safety Questionnaire at check-in. To expedite check-in, you may print and complete (but do not sign) the questionnaire prior arriving at the test site. You must sign the questionnaire in front of a proctor on the day of your examination.  

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Are test site staff required to routinely take a COVID-19 test or are required to have been COVID-19 vaccinated?
Test site personnel are not required to undergo routine COVID-19 testing and are not required to have been vaccinated.

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Under what conditions due to COVID-19 will I need to reschedule my test date?
If you tested positive for COVID-19 within 14 days; if you are showing symptoms of COVID-19; if you have had close contact within 14 days with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 or who has returned from travel from a restricted country; or if you have returned from travel from a restricted country within 14 days.

If you meet any of the above conditions up to 24 hours before your examination appointment, you are required to self-reschedule your test date. You may reschedule (subject to availability) or cancel up to 24 hours before your test appointment by clicking on the "Reschedule" link in your Appointment Confirmation. If you are within the 24-hour window, you will not permitted to reschedule. 

An applicant who has tested positive for COVID-19 or has met CDC isolation recommendations within 24 hours of the examination appointment, must scan verifiable documentation to UnifiedCourtSys@nycourts.gov for review within three business days of the original examination date. An applicant who has tested positive for COVID-19 must also scan verifiable documentation from a medical professional within 14 days of the original examination appointment regarding his or her medical status to take the examination.  Routine COVID-19 testing, including testing for travel or event admission, and COVID-19 vaccination appointments within 24 hours of the examination appointment are not grounds for rescheduling.      

The above conditions are subject to change based on CDC advisories.

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What are the COVID-19 safety protocols and procedures at the test site?
Protocols are SUBJECT TO CHANGE. Applicants will be advised of up to date protocols during self-scheduling. Current COVID-19 safety protocols include, but are not limited to, the following:

All applicants and staff are required to wear face masks over their mouths and noses at all times and maintain safe distance at all times. (Applicants may be asked to briefly remove face masks at check-in for identification purposes.)

All workstations and supplies are sanitized after each session by site staff. (Applicants are permitted to bring hand sanitizer to their testing station only after inspection.)

All applicants are required to complete the COVID-19 Safety Questionnaire at check-in. To expedite check-in, you may print and complete (but do not sign) the questionnaire prior to arriving at the test site.  You must sign the questionnaire in front of a proctor on the day of your examination.      

Any applicant displaying a sign or symptom of illness will be not be permitted to test.

Used face masks must be disposed of properly outside of the test center.

Note that any applicant who refuses to comply with any test site COVID-19 safety protocol will be required to leave the test site and will be disqualified from the examination. The examination application fee remains non-refundable for applicants disqualified from the examination.

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May I bring hand sanitizer and/or disinfectant wipes with me to the test site?
You permitted to bring hand sanitizer to your testing station, but it must first be inspected.  Please note that all work stations and supplies are sanitized by staff after each session.

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When will I receive the e-mail with the PSI self-scheduling link?
Due to the very large number of applicants competing in the examination, the e-mails with the PSI self-scheduling link will be e-mailed between August 16, 2021 and September 3, 2021  The e-mails will be sent from UnifiedCourtSys@nycourts.gov .  Be sure to add UnifiedCourtSys@nycourts.gov to your address book to ensure receipt of the self-scheduling link e-mail.  Please e-mail COEXAMS@nycourts.gov on, but not earlier than, September 4, 2021 if you have not received your PSI self-scheduling link by September 3, 2021. Please check your spam/junk mail before making any inquiries regarding receipt of your self-scheduling link.  Keep in mind that it is your responsibility to contact us prior to the examination period if you have not received a self-scheduling link.

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I have not received the e-mail containing the examination self-scheduling link between: August 16, 2021 and September 3, 2021. What should I do?
Please check your Spam/Junk mail before contacting us.   E-mail COEXAMS@nycourts.gov on, but not earlier than, September 4, 2021 if you have not received your PSI self-scheduling link by September 3, 2021. Keep in mind that it is your responsibility to contact prior to the examination period if you have not received a self-scheduling link.  

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When is the deadline to self-schedule for the examination?
All applicants are responsible for scheduling their own test appointments.  Applicants may self-schedule upon receipt of the self-scheduling link throughout the examination testing period, provided seats are available.  Self-scheduling is first come, first served; specific dates, times and sites are not guaranteed. It is recommended that applicants self-schedule as soon as possible. 

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My preferred date/test site is booked? What can I do?

All applicants are responsible for scheduling their own appointments. Self-scheduling is first come, first served; specific dates, times and sites are not guaranteed. However, PSI continually monitors seating capacity and adjusts seating capacity accordingly during the self-scheduling period.  In addition, applicants cancel and/or change sessions throughout the administration of the examination.  Therefore, it is recommended that applicants book the best available session and return to the scheduling calendar at a later date for a preferred opening. They may do so by selecting the blue “Reschedule” box found on their PSI appointment confirmation/reminder. Note that if an applicant accidently cancels an appointment by selecting "Reschedule," the applicant is responsible for scheduling a new appointment.

Please refer to the PSI Appointment Scheduling Guide and How to Select Test Center/Date Range for detailed answers about how to schedule your appointment.

 

 

 

I am experiencing technical issues when I attempt to self-schedule.  Is there help available? 

Please refer to the PSI Appointment Scheduling Guide and How to Select Test Center/Date Range for detailed answers about how to schedule your appointment.

Due to heavy scheduling volume, the system may experience slow periods or delays loading the scheduling page. Before contacting Technical Support, please wait 1 to 2 hours and attempt to schedule again. In the event an error message is provided, please email technical support for assistance at: nycucs_support@psionline.com.

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Can I reschedule my examination?
Applicants are responsible for rescheduling their test own test appointments. Applicants are permitted, for any reason, to reschedule their examination appointment up to 24 hours before their examination time if seating is available.  Applicants cannot reschedule for the same day. Applicants may only reschedule by selecting the “Reschedule” box found on their PSI appointment confirmation/reminder. If an applicant is within the 24-hour window, self-rescheduling is not permitted. 

APPLICANTS CANNOT BE RESCHEDULED WITHIN 24 HOURS OF THEIR EXAMINATION TIME EXCEPT DUE TO A VERIFIABLE TRUE EMERGENCY OR DOCUMENTED COVID-19 EVENT OCCURING WITHIN 24 HOURS OF THEIR EXAMINATION TIME. 

Applicants who experience an unexpected true emergency (i.e. incapacitating medical emergency, death in the immediate family) within 24 hours of their examination and are unable to attend their examination appointment,  must report and scan verifiable documentation for review to UnifiedCourtSys@nycourts.gov within three business days of the original examination date. Issues such as routine medical/dental appointments, expired or unacceptable IDs, work/school conflicts, child/adult care difficulties, vacation travel, graduations, weddings, and transportation problems/delays are not grounds for rescheduling.

An applicant who has tested positive for COVID-19 or has met CDC isolation recommendations within 24 hours of the examination appointment, must scan verifiable documentation to UnifiedCourtSys@nycourts.gov for review within three business days of the original examination date. An applicant who has tested positive for COVID-19 must also scan verifiable documentation from a medical professional within 14 days of the original examination appointment regarding his or her medical status to take the examination.  Routine COVID-19 testing, including testing for travel or event admission, and COVID-19 vaccination appointments are not grounds for rescheduling.                

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I no longer want to take the examination. What should I do?
If you no longer want to compete in the examination, e-mail the following statement to UnifiedCourtSys@nycourts.gov :   “I wish to withdraw from NYS Court Officer-Trainee examination 45-815.”   Include your complete name and Application ID Number with your e-mail.  Remember that the application processing fee is non-refundable.

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What subject matter is on the examination?

You may view subject matter covered on the examination at http://ww2.nycourts.gov/careers/COT-2020.shtml.

 

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How much time is permitted during the examination?
The examination time is three hours and 15 minutes which includes the memory portion of the examination.   However, to allot time for check-in and to complete administrative tasks, the test site appointment time shown on your self-scheduling confirmation will be four or more hours.

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Is there a practice examination available?
A practice examination is available at http://ww2.nycourts.gov/careers/COT-2020.shtml.  

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Can you advise me how to study for the examination?
Test preparation suggestions are available at http://ww2.nycourts.gov/careers/COT-2020.shtml

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Are there recommended study guides or test prep courses?
Test preparation suggestions are available at http://ww2.nycourts.gov/careers/COT-2020.shtml. Please note that we are prohibited from endorsing any other study material or test preparation courses.

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What conduct is expected of me while at the test site?

You must abide to all test site COVID-19 safety protocols at all times, including the wearing of a face mask over your mouth and nose and maintaining safe distancing.  Failure to observe the COVID-19 safety protocols will result in your removal from the test site and disqualification from the examination. 

  
You are expected to act professionally and be respectful of other test takers and site personnel. Applicants must abide by all site rules, including being photographed at check-in. Site personnel are empowered to deny admittance to or to remove from the site any applicant who refuses follow site rules and whose behavior, in the opinion of site personnel, is disruptive or disturbing to others. Applicants suspected of cheating or of attempting to steal examination information will also be removed from the site. Applicants removed from the site will be disqualified from the examination and may be prohibited from taking examinations in the future. Criminal and/or civil penalties may also be imposed for applicants who are removed from a site.

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How much time should I plan on being at the test site?
The examination time is three hours and 15 minutes which includes the memory portion of the examination.   However, to allot time for check-in and to complete administrative tasks, the test site appointment time shown on your self-scheduling confirmation will be four or more hours.

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What kinds of photo IDs are acceptable to present at the test site?
You must present an original NON-EXPIRED U.S. or state government issued photo ID at the test site. You will not be admitted to a test site without an original NON-EXPIRED U. S. or state government issued photo ID, and you will not be rescheduled. Acceptable photo IDs include a US driver’s license, US passport, US government issued visa, US Military ID, and valid current year high school identification card. Electronic IDs are not acceptable.

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My ID has or does not have my middle name or middle initial. Will that present a problem at the test site?
No. Only your first and last name(s) of your photo ID must match your examination record. If your examination record reflects a suffix (i.e. Jr.), your photo ID must also reflect the same suffix.  However, if your examination record does not reflect a suffix, it is acceptable if your photo ID reflects a suffix.   

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What should I bring with me to the test site?
You must bring an original NON-EXPIRED U.S. or state government issued photo ID to the test site. It is advisable to bring a copy of your PSI center examination scheduling confirmation.

Print and complete (but do not sign) the COVID-19 Safety Questionnaire prior to arriving at the test site.  You must sign the questionnaire in front of a proctor on the day of your examination.

You will not be permitted entry into the test site without a face mask. Therefore bring at least one face mask. 

If you will be under 18 years old on the day of your examination, you must bring a parent or guardian to the test site. Print and complete the Minor's Release Form.  Your parent or guardian must sign the form in front of a proctor.    

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What should I not bring with me to the test site?
Personal belongings are not permitted in the testing area. This includes, but not limited to, outerwear, jackets, hoodies, hats, scarves, wallets, bags, purses, Google glasses, watches, smart watches,  cell phones, sun glasses and some types of jewelry. While you may be able to store your belongings at the center, it is recommended that you do not bring valuables to the center. Any testing supplies or material will be provided at the test site. No outside materials, including calculators, are permitted.  Use of any test supplies or material without approval from the test center may be considered as cheating and may result in immediate dismissal and disqualification.

Non-applicants are prohibited at any test site, except for a parent or legal guardian accompanying an applicant under the age of 18.  Non-applicants include children, parents of applicants who are not minors, friends, and pets.  No child care or adult care is provided at any test site. Applicants who bring minors or adults requiring supervision will not be allowed to test and will not be rescheduled. 

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Are there special test site requirements if I will be under 18 years-old on the day of my examination appointment?
Yes. If you will be under 18 years old on the day of your examination appointment, your parent or legal guardian will be required to accompany you to the test site and remain at the test site until you have completed the examination. Only one parent/legal guardian should accompany you. As your parent/legal guardian will need to sign the Minor's Release Form in front of a proctor, your parent/legal guardian will be required to bring government issued photo ID to the test site. While you take the examination, your parent/legal guardian will need to wait outside of the testing room, remain quiet, and will not be permitted to communicate with you.

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Are non-applicants permitted at the test site?

Non-applicants are prohibited at any test site, except for a parent or legal guardian accompanying an applicant under the age of 18.  Non-applicants include children, parents of applicants who are not minors, friends, and pets.  No child care or adult care is provided at any test site. Applicants who bring minors or adults requiring supervision will not be allowed to test and will not be rescheduled. 

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I am experiencing a problem while testing.  What should I do?
The vast majority of test takers do not encounter any irregularities at the test site. If you experience a problem during the examination, it is important that you notify site personnel immediately so the issue can be addressed at the site test. You will not be permitted to retest if you notify site or court personnel of an irregularity after taking the examination.         

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How long will it take to receive my examination results and what is the passing score?
Results are typically e-mailed about six months after the examination period has concluded.

Examination Ratings
Examination final ratings are reported on a scale of 100 with the passing mark set at 70. The passing raw score (number of questions answered correctly) for the examination will be determined at a date following the administration of the examination.

 

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If I pass the examination am I guaranteed a job?
The eligible list is canvassed based upon the needs of the courts. The list is canvassed in score/rank order. There is no guarantee your rank will be reached.  Physical, medical and psychological examinations and evaluations are held to ensure that candidates can satisfactorily perform the duties of this position.  Substance abuse screening and an extensive background investigation are conducted as well.  For detailed information and requirements:  http://ww2.nycourts.gov/careers/cot/screening.shtml

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How long will the new eligible list 45-815 be active?
Eligible lists are in existence for four years and may be extended. Consistent with civil service rules, passing candidates will be canvassed in rank order when there is a vacancy to be filled.

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Do I need to do anything after the examination?
It is important that you let us know of any personal information changes such as e-mail address, mailing address, phone number, or name.  E-mail any changes to UnifiedCourtSys@nycourts.gov. Include your complete name, Application ID Number, and Examination #45-815 on all correspondence.   

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I require reasonable accommodations to take the examination. What is the procedure to request them?
You must select “yes” to the application question “Do you require reasonable testing accommodations?”. After you submit your application, you should immediately e-mail us at UnifiedCourtSys@nycourts.gov to advise us of the kind of accommodation(s) you are requesting. You must also scan documentation, from a qualified medical or psychological professional, indicating the need for the accommodation(s) with your e-mail. We will review your request and underlying documentation. If approved, you will be notified by e-mail how to enter the accommodation(s) request with PSI when self-scheduling.

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I am currently on active duty in the U.S. Military and cannot attend any session. What should I do?
Submit the on-line examination application during the open-filing period if you can. Scan your active duty orders to UnifiedCourtSys@nycourts.gov . In your e-mail, please let us know when you believe you will be available for testing.  Note that once you are separated from active duty, please advise us within 30 days that you are available for testing. Attach your DD-214 with your test availability notification.

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I am a veteran or currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Military and wish to add Veteran Credits to my examination score.  What should I do?
If you wish to be considered for Veteran Credits, you should select “yes” for the application question “If you have served in the Armed Forces, do you claim veteran’s credit.” Print and complete the Veteran Credits Form and follow all instructions on the form carefully. Please note that the Veteran Credits Form and all supporting documentation must be scanned to CSAveteran@nycourts.gov prior to eligible list establishment.  Also note that veteran credits can only be applied to passing scores. A summary of who is eligible for veteran credits is available.

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