A Study Guide to the CDCR Test: With Tips
Updated November 20, 2023
The California Correctional Officer Test (CCOT) (also known as the CDCR Written exam) is an examination administered by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR).
The aptitude test is used for those applying to be correctional officers in state prisons.
Candidates' knowledge, reasoning, problem-solving, communication and physical abilities are evaluated, helping ensure prospective officers possess the necessary skills for the demanding role of a Californian correctional officer.
What Is the CDCR Test?
The California Correctional Officer Test, also known as the CDCR test, is essential to becoming a correction officer in California.
The role of a correctional officer is a demanding and complex one. Correctional officers ensure that order is maintained in prisons and that inmates follow the rules, while also dealing with unforeseen or disruptive situations.
The CDCR test is a standardized examination administered by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) to assess whether an individual has the skills and aptitude to successfully deal with the demands placed on a correctional officer in a Californian state prison.
These include:
- Basic numeracy skills
- Being observant
- Teamwork
- Communication, both written and verbal
- Decision-making ability
- Ability to follow instructions
- Reading comprehension
- Problem-solving
Around 76% of candidates will pass the test but the CDCR test is just one of many steps in the application process to become a Californian correctional officer.
If you pass the written test you will proceed to additional stages such as a background check and a CDCR psychological exam.
Prepare for the CDCR Test with JobTestPrep
What Is on the CDCR Test?
The test consists of multiple-choice questions that cover various topics relevant to the role of a correctional officer, including:
Written Comprehension and Expression
This section assesses the ability to understand written information and express thoughts clearly and effectively in writing. Also candidates' grammar, spelling and punctuation skills.
The test includes information presentation, paragraph organization, restatements, spelling and sentence completion questions.
Reasoning and Problem-Solving
This section evaluates critical thinking skills and the ability to analyze situations, make sound decisions, follow rules and solve problems.
This includes simple math questions such as addition, subtraction and multiplication. Candidates are also provided with a set of questions they have to answer, given a set of rules.
Judgment and Decision-Making
Here you will be assessed on ethical decision-making skills, situational judgment and the ability to make appropriate choices in a correctional setting.
Candidates are provided with situations that test how a candidate will react in specific scenarios.
Interpersonal Skills and Communication
This section evaluates communication abilities, conflict resolution skills and the capacity to interact effectively with inmates, staff and the public.
Physical Abilities
Besides the CDCR written exam, candidates must also pass a physical fitness test to demonstrate their physical readiness for the job's demands.
Example Questions for the CDCR Test
You are a correctional officer assigned to a housing unit in a California state prison. During your shift in the recreational area, you observe two inmates engaging in a heated argument. The argument appears to be escalating; several other inmates have gathered around the two having a heated argument.
What would be your worst course of action in this situation?
a) Immediately intervene and physically separate the inmates to prevent further escalation.
b) Use verbal escalation to show the inmates you are in charge.
c) Alert your supervisor and request additional staff support to handle the situation.
d) Monitor the situation from a safe distance and report it in your shift report at the end of your shift.
Below is a list of six sentences. When combined, the sentences form a paragraph. Place the sentences in the correct order so that the sentences form a logical paragraph.
5. A California correctional officer faces a multitude of challenging situations within a state prison environment.
4. They may call for backup or additional staff support to help maintain control and ensure the situation is appropriately managed.
3. One such scenario could involve a potentially dangerous altercation between two inmates. In this situation, the officer must remain vigilant and observant, quickly assessing the level of escalation and potential risks involved.
1. Ultimately, the correctional officer's ability to respond calmly, think critically and make sound judgments is paramount to maintaining order and security within California's correctional facilities.
6. Documentation of the incident is also crucial, as the officer must accurately report the details for future reference and potential disciplinary actions.
2. They may need to use their training in de-escalation techniques, employing effective verbal communication to defuse the tension and prevent physical violence while prioritizing their safety and the safety of other inmates.
Which of the following options represents the correct order of sentences to form the most logical paragraph:
a) 2, 4, 6, 1, 5, 3
b) 5, 3, 2, 4, 6, 1
c) 4, 6, 1, 3, 2, 5
d) 5, 6, 3, 2, 1, 4
Below is a detailed timetable for prisoner A. Use the information in this timetable to answer the question given.
Prisoner A Daily Timetable
| 7:00 a.m. | Daily Exercise | 1 hour |
| 8:15 a.m. | Breakfast | 1 hour |
| 10:00 a.m. | Recreation | 1 hour |
| 11:00 a.m. | Janitorial duties | 1 hour and 30 minutes |
| 1:45 p.m. | Kitchen preparation | 3 hours |
Using prisoner A’s daily schedule above, which two activities have less than a 30-minute break in between them?
a) Janitorial duties and kitchen preparation
b) Janitorial duties and recreation
c) Daily exercise and breakfast
d) Breakfast and recreation
Read the short passage below and answer the question that follows, deciding which word contains a spelling or grammatical error.
*Inmates in prison participate in various activities that aim to promote rehabilitation, maintain order and provide structure within the correctional environment. *
While specific opportunities can vary depending on the facility, security level and individual circumstances, there are everyday activities that inmates typically participate in.
Education and vocational programs play a crucial role in inmate rehabilitation. Inmates may attend classes to obtain their high school equivalency or work towards earning college degrees. Vocational training programs provide valuable skills in areas such as carpentry, plumbing, culinary arts or computer technology, enhancing their prospects for employment upon release.
Prisoners also engage in work assignments within the correctional facility. They may perform maintenence, cleaning, food services, laundry or groundskeeping tasks. These work assignments contribute to the facility's operation, teach valuable job skills and instill a sense of responsibility and discipline.
Additionally, inmates can access recreational sessions that promote physical fitness, mental well-being and social interaction. These may include exercise facilities, sports programs, library services, religious activities and counseling or therapy sessions.
Which one of the words in the above paragraph contains a spelling or grammatical error?
a) Recreational
b) Maintenence
c) Equivalency
d) Activities
An officer works in a unit with 59 inmates. There has been an incident, and the officer is required to move the remaining inmates to the recreational area.
Before the incident, 13 inmates were sent to the medical unit for care. One was discharged, with four staying in the unit for two weeks.
The remaining eight inmates returned to the recreational area after getting a medical check.
How many inmates did the officer take to the recreational area following the incident?
a) 46
b) 45
c) 41
d) 48
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Below are the regulations and requirements as stipulated on the travel insurance claim form below. Answer the question that follows according to the rules given in the form.
Travel Insurance Claim Requirements
When making a travel insurance claim, claimants must include the following detail:
1. Name of the claimant, travel insurance policy number, contact details such as phone and email
2. Details of the incident that you are claiming for
3. The date and time of the incident that you are claiming for
4. For lost property, the following details must be included:
- Details of item
- Attach a picture of the item (if available)
- Cost to replace the item
5. For theft of an item, the following details must be included:
- Detail of the item(s) stolen
- Number of items stolen
- Description of the item stolen
- Cost of the item
- Receipt or proof of the cost of the item
The claimant completed the claim form with the details below.
*'I am submitting a claim on my travel insurance for the theft of several items from our hotel room. We went on an organized excursion on the second day of our holiday. When we returned to our hotel room, we found that a number of items were missing; one of these was my mobile phone which was only purchased last year. *
'I contacted hotel reception, and they advised me to contact my travel insurance company to sort this out.'
Based on the information completed in the travel insurance claim form above, how many of the requirements were not met?
a) 4
b) 2
c) 1
d) 3
What Is the Format for the CDCR Test?
The CDCR test is a multiple-choice assessment comprising 53 questions to be completed in one hour and 45 minutes.
Candidates should expect to take two minutes on each question to ensure they complete all questions in the test.
There is a paper version of the test, which can be taken at one of three testing centers across the state.
There is also an online version of the test, meaning that candidates currently outside the state can sit the test.
What Is the Pass Rate?
The pass mark for the CDCR test states that candidates must score at least 70% on the test to progress to the later stages of recruitment.
Progression early on is vital. Failing the test, even by a small margin, can result in the candidate having their application delayed by several months or rejected.
How to Prepare for the CDCR Test
Preparing for the California Correctional Officer Test (CDCR test) requires a focused approach to enhance your knowledge, skills and abilities relevant to the role.
Here are some steps to help you prepare effectively:
Step 1. Understand the Test
Familiarize yourself with the CDCR test structure, content and requirements. Review the official CDCR website or a CDCR written exam practice test to gain insight into the areas that will be assessed.
Step 2. Study the Material
Study materials such as an official CDCR exam study guide, a CDCR practice test and other relevant resources.
Focus on topics such as written comprehension and expression, reasoning, problem-solving, judgment and decision-making, interpersonal skills and communication.
Step 3. Practice Questions
Solve practice questions, including sample situational judgment scenarios, to get accustomed to the types of questions you may encounter.
This builds confidence, improves test-taking skills and reinforces knowledge.
Step 4. Review Relevant Knowledge
Review subjects such as criminal justice, corrections procedures, ethical standards and relevant laws.
Understand the role of correctional officers, the challenges they face and the protocols they follow.
Step 5. Develop Critical Thinking
Enhance your critical thinking skills by practicing logical reasoning, problem-solving and decision-making exercises.
Solve puzzles or do jigsaws to get your mind to think logically. These skills are crucial for effectively handling situations as a correctional officer.
Step 6. Plan Your Route to the Test
Make sure you know how you will get to the test center. Factor in how long it takes to get to the test center if you drive by car or take public transportation. Ensure you know relevant public transportation timetables and give yourself enough time to get to the test center.
Step 7. Simulate Test Conditions
Take a CDCR practice test under timed conditions to simulate the actual test experience. Assess your performance, identify areas for improvement and focus on strengthening weak areas.
Step 8. Take Care of Your Well-Being
Practice relaxation techniques, maintain a healthy lifestyle and adopt effective time management strategies to alleviate test anxiety and ensure optimal performance.
A CDCR test is an examination administered by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) to assess the knowledge, skills and abilities of individuals applying for positions within the state's correctional system. It is designed to evaluate their suitability for roles such as correctional officers.
The difficulty level of the CDCR written test can vary depending on individual preparation, knowledge and skills. It is designed to assess candidates' aptitude for the correctional officer role. With adequate preparation and a solid understanding of the test content, passing is achievable with dedication and effort.
CDCR test prep is vital to perform well on the CDCR test. If you’re seeking a CDCR practice test, JobTestPrep has guidance and CDCR example test questions that you can use to help you prepare for the CDCR test.
The CDCR written exam comprises 53 questions, with a total time limit of one hour and 45 minutes. Candidates must complete as many questions as they can in the time allotted.
There are 53 questions in the CDCR written test. The test evaluates candidates on the aptitudes needed to deal with the demanding role of a correctional officer.
These include logical thinking, numeracy, verbal and written communication skills, as well as situational judgment and decision-making skills.
The specific timeline for the CDCR Physical Fitness Test (PFT) after the CDCR written test may vary. It is recommended to consult the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) or the official guidelines provided to determine the exact timeframe for the PFT scheduling.
You will also be required to take a CDCR psychological exam if you pass the written test and a background investigation check.
To pass the CDCR written test, candidates must attain at least 70% on the test.
Practicing with a CDCR sample test is essential to give yourself the best opportunity to attain a good score.
CDCR practice test questions can be found at JobTestPrep, which also has further guidance and practice questions that you can use to help you prepare for the CDCR test.
The CDCR test is a timed assessment. The test lasts 105 minutes, with 53 questions to complete. This means candidates should spend approximately two minutes per question to ensure they complete all questions in the test.
Applicants must be at least 21 years old and be a US citizen. Holding a high school diploma or equivalent is generally required as well.
Some positions may have additional education requirements or preferences, for example, if you’re considering taking the CDCR Special Agent exam.
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation test (CDCR test) aims to assess the knowledge, skills and abilities of individuals applying for positions as correctional officers.
This ensures candidates have the necessary aptitude to effectively perform their duties, such as maintaining safety and security within correctional facilities.
CDCR test prep is an essential part of preparing for the test. Sample CDCR written exam questions can be found at JobTestPrep, along with guidance that you can use to help you prepare for the CDCR test.
Final Thoughts
The CDCR test (California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation) is a crucial assessment used to evaluate candidates applying for positions as correctional officers in California state prisons.
The purpose of the test is to measure the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to excel in the demanding role of a correctional officer.
The CDCR test consists of multiple-choice questions covering areas such as written comprehension, reasoning, problem-solving, judgment and communication. It aims to assess candidates' aptitude for working in a correctional environment and their ability to make sound decisions.
To perform well on the CDCR written exam, candidates can prepare by understanding the test format, reviewing relevant material on criminal justice and corrections, practicing with CDCR example test questions, following a CDCR written exam study guide and developing critical thinking skills.
By practicing and staying focused you can increase your confidence, perform to the best of your abilities on the CDCR test and pursue a career as a correctional officer.
