A Detailed Guide on How to Pass NYC Sanitation Exam: with Tips
Updated November 20, 2023
In New York, sanitation workers are highly regarded to keep the city clean and safe.
Sanitation workers are rewarded well after five and a half years of service with a minimum annual salary of $83,000, a pension and overtime.
With prospects such as these, a role as a sanitation worker can be highly sought after, but to be able to become one you’ll need to take an NYC Sanitation Exam.
This article will look at how to apply for the New York Sanitation Exam, some examples of questions that will be asked and how to become successful in passing the test.
What Is the New York Sanitation Exam?
First let’s look at the facts about the exam itself.
The purpose of the NYC Sanitation Test is to assess if an individual is a good fit and qualified to become a sanitation worker in New York City and Staten Island.
This role requires skills in problem-solving, spatial awareness, written skills and visualization, in addition to being a physically demanding role.
The NYC Sanitation Exam is helpful for measuring those required skills, which is why it is part of the NYC Sanitation Test application process. The other two exams are a physical assessment and a medical assessment to ensure you’re healthy and fit enough for the role that will see you outside in all terrains.
The NYC Sanitation Exam only happens every four to six years, so it is important to be aware of application times and when the next exam will be if this is a career you’re interested in, as it is very competitive and thousands often apply.
If you score the minimum of 70% in your exam, you’ll be notified within six to nine months by the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS), which will certify that you have passed the exam and give you a list number.
This means you are eligible and ready to become a sanitation worker.
Once you are listed, you will need to have a valid driving license, have a high school diploma and be 21 years old to actually take the role. As the test is only set every four to six years, many people have to wait a few years before being appointed to a position.
Take a Practice Sanitation Exam at JobTestPrep
How to Apply for the NYC Sanitation Test
As well as knowing when to register for the NYC Sanitation Test, it is important to understand the eligibility criteria and how to apply.
The DCAS will have the dates of the NYC Sanitation Test application period on its website. There is only a certain window to be able to register.
You then register through the New York City website or visit the DCAS in person to apply.
The main requirements before the test are to ensure you are 17 and a half years of age by the end of the NYC Sanitation Exam application period and that you are a New York resident.
The registration cost is $61 though there are possibilities of the fees being waived for veterans or those receiving state benefits.
When it is time to take the test, you must visit your local DCAS test base in your area. There is one in every borough of New York.
The exam is then taken on a computer.
What Is in the NYC Sanitation Exam?
The NYC Sanitation Test is a multiple-choice exam, covering four main topics that will help measure the skills of the candidate.
The four areas that cover the 70 questions included in the exam are:
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Written comprehension – This is measuring the ability to understand written sentences and passages of writing. A sanitation worker will have to understand guidance literature, street and road signs and information and general instructions, so it is essential they have good written comprehension.
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Problem sensitivity – This is looking at the candidate’s ability to recognize when something is wrong or a problem is arising. Sanitation workers will come across problems in their equipment, vehicles or similar so they need to be able to recognize them.
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Written expression – This is testing a person’s ability to write using grammar, spelling and punctuation and so others will understand it. There will be times in their role when a sanitation worker will need to write to colleagues or residents, so their written skills should be up to scratch.
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Spatial orientation – This is focusing on someone’s understanding of knowing where they are in relation to an object or person. Moving vehicles and heavy equipment on busy roads is part of a sanitation worker’s daily role. Spatial awareness is a must.
These are all written questions, with no time limit.
NYC Sanitation Test Example Questions
Within the different sections it is good to know the format of questions and their level of difficulty.
Below are example questions and answers for each section.
Example Question 1 – Written Expression
Which of the following sentences is punctuated correctly?
a) The bookshelves are stocked, can you carry, the final box here?
b) The bookshelves are stocked can you carry the final box here?
c) The bookshelves are stocked; can you carry the final box here?
d) The bookshelves are stocked, can you carry the final box here?
There is to be a street parade in one of the boroughs you work in. Below are the details:
The parade will take place on Friday.
It will start at 1:00 p.m. and finish no later than 2:00 p.m.
The streets it will cover are New Street, West Street and Hopper Street inclusively. All of these roads will be closed for any other vehicles during the time of the parade.
Please state which of the following scenarios could see an issue arise for the street parade:
a) The butchers on West Street closes for lunch from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. every day.
b) A resident in Hopper Street is having a party on Friday evening at 8:00 p.m., with lots of people from different boroughs visiting.
c) The bar on West Street is expecting a delivery in a truck between 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Friday.
d) You are not working on Friday.
At the local primary school, three teachers will resign at the end of the school term. Every teacher in the school teaches math. The principal of the school is also due to leave at the end of the school term. She is taking early retirement due to poor health but she will miss all the children she looked after, especially her math class. Even as the head teacher she taught one math class per week.
Which of the following statements is incorrect?
a) The principle is not old enough for retirement
b) The school needs four math classes covered in the new school year
c) Three teachers are leaving the school
d) You can take early retirement as a teacher
There are three different ways to get to the office on Simon Street for some training. You are currently on North Street and the time is 1:45 p.m., and you need to be in the office by 2:00 p.m.
Which of the following routes should you take in your car?
a) Follow the road north up to the traffic lights at the end of North Street, turn left onto Bridge Street and follow the road for 13 minutes. When you get to the end, you should turn right onto Jessie Road. Follow this road for two minutes. Then take the sharp turn on to Telephone Road and stay on this road for one minute. Then turn right onto Simon Street where you reach your destination.
b) Turn back on yourself and turn on to Montague Road. There you’ll see the footpath. Follow the road straight for seven minutes. At the end of the footpath, turn right onto Telephone Road, then cut through the shortcut footpath and you’ll reach your destination.
c) Turn back and follow the road south to the end. Then turn left onto Fishers Boulevard. Follow this for nine minutes, take a sharp turn onto Jessie Road, then immediately on to Telephone Road. Follow this road for two minutes and then turn left onto Simon Street. You will then be at the office.
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How Is the NYC Sanitation Exam Scored?
The minimum score for passing the NYC written test is 70% to be considered for a job.
Each question is worth the same amount and the test consists of 70 questions, so this means you need to answer at least 49 questions correctly.
It is important to note that applications are considered in score order, so the highest score will be chosen first, and the lowest within the minimum last.
If you pass the exam, you will be sent certification within six to nine months, and given a list number.
You may also apply for extra credits if you pass, which will help you apply for roles in other areas of the New York council.
How to Prepare for the Test
The NYC Department of Sanitation Exam application process is highly competitive, due to how infrequently it is held and the fact that a sanitation worker is a sought-after role with many prospects.
For example, through NYC sanitation police exam training, existing sanitation workers can undertake law enforcement training to become sanitation police.
If you combine the competitive application process with the need for a 70% pass score to be successful in the test, it is essential to prepare thoroughly and revise hard.
Our top tips for preparing for the next NYC Sanitation Exam are:
Step 1. Familiarize Yourself With the Question Types
Take online practice tests and explore the official website. It is wise to look at as many past papers and example questions for each section as possible.
This then gives you a chance to revise and study efficiently, knowing the areas you need to be aware of, such as grammar and punctuation.
Step 2. Take Practice Tests Online
Taking practice tests will not only help with understanding the different types of questions, which will help with revision, but it also gives you full answers and solutions.
If you are unsure of the answer to a question, these tests will help you understand the questions and correct answers.
You will also be able to see what score you get and understand what areas you need more practice in.
Step 3. Study Important Concepts
The job of a sanitation worker is very important with lots of different information, rules, challenges and work to do.
The exam will cover these important concepts, and it is vital for you to know them. This way you’ll not only be able to relate them to the answers in the test but also be well prepared for the job itself.
Step 4. Read a Lot of Different Materials
Reading as much information as possible will give you well-rounded knowledge on a wide range of scenarios that may occur in the exam.
Reading lots of different materials is also great practice for the comprehension part of the exam.
Step 5. Get Enough Rest Before the Test
You will work more efficiently with sufficient rest. It is also essential to ensure you have eaten a healthy meal and drunk enough water before the test.
The NYC Sanitation Civil Service Exam is a test used to measure if a person is suitable for the role of a sanitation worker in the city of New York and Staten Island.
The exam covers different areas such as written skills, spatial awareness and problem sensitivity.
To apply to take the exam, you need to be at least 17 and a half years old at the time of the end of the NYC Sanitation Exam application.
The NYC Sanitation Exam consists of 70 questions, spread over four main areas.
The multiple-choice questions are based on written comprehension, spatial orientation, problem sensitivity and written expression.
You can prepare for the NYC Sanitation Exam online with a range of free or paid practice tests.
These tests allow you to familiarize yourself with the types of questions you could be asked but also let you work on certain areas that you may need to study harder for.
It is also good to read forums and different material about the New York City Department of Sanitation Exam to give you as much information as possible.
A good score on the NYC written sanitation exam is 70% and above. The higher the score, the higher up the list you are for being hired.
Though 70% is the minimum needed to pass the test, higher scorers can then take further tests to help them with possible other roles.
You can pass the NYC Sanitation Exam by preparing for it with online practice tests.
If you do this as much as you can, it will allow you to revise as many different topics as possible.
You can also read about the exam and the job role, which will give you a head start, and get a good rest the night before the exam.
The difficulty level of the NYC Sanitation Exam can vary depending on an individual's preparedness and knowledge of the subject matter.
The exam evaluates candidates on a range of topics related to sanitation regulations, procedures, and safety protocols.
Adequate preparation, including studying relevant materials and familiarizing oneself with the exam format, can significantly increase the chances of success.
While it may require dedicated effort and commitment, with proper preparation, many candidates have successfully passed the NYC Sanitation Exam.
The scheduling of the NYC Sanitation Exam is determined by the New York City Department of Sanitation.
The exam is typically offered periodically throughout the year, but specific dates can vary.
To find out the exact schedule for the next NYC Sanitation Exam, it is recommended to visit the official website of the New York City Department of Sanitation or contact their recruitment office for the most up-to-date information.
The purpose of the NYC Sanitation Exam is to assess the knowledge, skills and aptitude of individuals aspiring to work in the New York City Department of Sanitation.
The exam serves as a comprehensive evaluation of candidates' understanding of sanitation regulations, waste management procedures, recycling practices, and other essential topics related to maintaining a clean and sustainable environment.
Successful completion of the exam is a requirement for obtaining employment within the Department of Sanitation and is crucial for ensuring that qualified individuals are selected for positions that contribute to the city's sanitation efforts.
To access sample questions for the NYC Sanitation Exam, it is recommended to visit the official website of the New York City Department of Sanitation.
They may provide study materials, guides or practice exams that include sample questions.
Additionally, there are online resources, forums and study guides specifically designed to help candidates prepare for the exam. Check out the ones on JobTestPrep.
These resources can provide valuable insights into the types of questions that may be encountered and aid in familiarizing oneself with the exam format.
The availability of online administration for the NYC Sanitation Exam may vary depending on the specific requirements and policies set by the New York City Department of Sanitation.
While some exams can be taken online, others may require in-person attendance at designated testing centers.
It is advisable to check the official website of the New York City Department of Sanitation or contact their recruitment office for detailed information on the current exam administration methods and requirements.
Yes, the NYC Sanitation Exam is typically timed. The specific time limit for the exam may vary depending on the test format and the number of questions included.
The timed nature of the exam is designed to assess candidates' ability to manage their time effectively, think critically, and demonstrate their knowledge within the given timeframe.
It is important to practice time management strategies during exam preparation to ensure that sufficient time is allocated to each question or section.
To obtain a full guide for the NYC Sanitation Exam, it is recommended to visit the official website of the New York City Department of Sanitation.
They may provide comprehensive study guides or reference materials that cover the topics and content areas relevant to the exam.
Additionally, there are websites like JobTestPrep that provide practice materials.
These resources can provide a comprehensive overview, study tips, practice questions, and other helpful information to enhance exam preparation.
Final Thoughts
The NYC Sanitation Exam is only open to take every four to six years.
The role of a sanitation worker is paid well and has good prospects.
Anybody taking this exam will have lots of competition and therefore needs to ensure they are fully prepared.
Lots of revision, doing online practice papers and familiarizing yourself with different questions will all help you to obtain the minimum pass score of 70%.
