Frequently Asked Questions
About the Exam
- How do I apply?
We are not currently accepting applications for Police Officer, but you may sign up for job postings below to be notified when the position is posted and we begin accepting applications.
- The exam date is on a day I cannot attend—do you offer online testing or another test date?
No, unless you are requesting a special accommodation due to religious or medical requirements.In order to ensure a secure test environment and make best use of our resources, we can only offer the exam in person on the specified date except under special circumstances.
- Is there an exam fee?
No, there is not a fee to attend the exam.
- What are the minimum qualifications?
For an overview of the minimum requirements of the position or a complete job description, visit the Urbana Police Department Recruiting Information page.
- Do I need to live in the city in order to take the exam?
No, you do not need to be an Urbana resident in order to take the exam. However, Urbana residents do receive five preference points on the civil service exam. Please review the application for more information on when and how to submit proof to receive resident preference points.
- I have previously taken the exam for Urbana Police Officer; do I need to retest?
Yes! Even if you have taken the exam for Urbana Police Officer before, you will need to retake it in order to be considered.
About the Hiring Process
- If I pass the exam, when will I be hired?
If you pass the exam, you will be placed on the Civil Service Register for Police Officer, but placement on the register does not guarantee that you will be hired; you must still successfully pass several more steps in the process.
Depending on your exam score, you may be invited to interview immediately. If you receive notification that you are on the register but are not in the first group to be interviewed, you may be invited to interview at a later date. Be sure to keep your contact information current; if you change your address, including your e-mail address, be sure to notify the Urbana Human Resources division at (217) 384-2459 or e-mail Elizabeth Borman at: eeborman@urbanaillinois.us.
About the Job
- Where can I find more information about the Urbana Police Department?
For more information about the Urbana Police Department, visit: http://urbanaillinois.us/police.
- Do I need to live in the City if I'm hired?
According to Urbana Civil Service Rule 12.8, Police Officers are required to live within a 15-mile radius of the city limits of the City of Urbana by the time they complete their probation (six months).
