Application Deadline: January 19, 2026 at 11:59 PM CDT
Starting Salary (at Step 1)
$99,426
Exam Date (Part 1)
Feb 23, 2026
About the Position
The Police Officer (Assigned as Detective) position involves specialized investigative work to serve the community and protect the lives, rights, and property of all people in Chicago. Detectives work under general supervision to manage investigative cases, secure and preserve evidence, gather information from witnesses and suspects, and enforce federal, state, and municipal laws.
Key Responsibilities
- Investigate complaints and incidents involving violent crimes, property crimes, and crimes against special victims
- Secure crime scenes and collect, compile, and preserve evidence
- Interview victims, witnesses, and suspects to gather information
- Research and analyze data from various sources to develop leads
- Apprehend suspected law violators using proper arrest procedures
- Prepare written reports, case files, and legal documents
- Perform court-related activities including obtaining warrants and providing testimony
- Utilize impartial policing strategies and de-escalation techniques
Examination Process
Written Job Knowledge Examination
Monday, February 23, 2026
This pass/fail examination tests knowledge required to perform Detective assignments. Candidates who pass will be eligible to take the Written Competency-based Assessment. All candidates will have an opportunity to review and appeal their results.
Written Competency-Based Assessment
Wednesday, April 23, 2026
This assessment evaluates candidate performance on competencies such as analysis, decision-making, and interpersonal skills. Only applicants who pass the Written Job Knowledge Examination are eligible. Candidates will be ranked based on performance, with rank position determined by assessment score, seniority date, and date of birth if needed.
Selection Process: At least 80% of promotions will be based on rank-order from the Written Competency-based Assessment. Up to 20% may be selected via merit appointment at the discretion of the Superintendent of Police.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the minimum qualifications to take the exam?
- Must be employed by the City of Chicago as a Chicago Police Officer for at least two (2) continuous years
- Must have completed the 18-month probationary period plus an additional six (6) months as an active Career Service Chicago Police Officer
- Must have a valid State of Illinois Driver's License
- Must be a resident of the City of Chicago
- Must have a valid Firearm Owner's Identification (FOID) card
- Must be on full duty and in active status (not on medical roll) by the date of pre-service training notice
When will I be notified about the exam?
Eligible members will be notified at the email address used during application of the time and location to report for the examination. It's important to note that members who are late or fail to appear for the Written Job Knowledge Examination will be disqualified and not rescheduled.
What happens after I pass the exams?
After passing both examinations, candidates will be placed on an eligibility list in rank order. To be eligible for promotion, you must have three (3) years of continuous service as a Chicago Police Officer. Upon receiving notification to report for pre-service training, you may defer promotion in writing while maintaining your rank-order position.
Are accommodations available for the exam?
Yes, accommodations are available for:
- Medical/ADA: Submit requests to disabilityaccommodations@cityofchicago.org with supporting documentation
- Military commitments: Submit requests to Testingaccomodations@cityofchicago.org at least 7 days before the exam
- Religious conflicts: Submit requests to eeodiversity@cityofchicago.org per the City's Religious Accommodation Policy
Note that DHR email boxes are checked Monday-Friday during traditional office hours.
Where can I find study materials?
The Police Officer (Assigned as Detective) Exam reference material, including a suggested reading list and study guide for the written test phase, can be accessed at: 2026 Detective Examination Materials. Preparation materials for the Written Competency-based Assessment will be sent via email to applicants who pass the Written Job Knowledge Examination.
What if I need to miss work for the exam?
Candidates will not be granted overtime when scheduled to report for any portion of the selection process during off-duty hours. However, the station supervisor/designated unit supervisor will excuse a member who has been scheduled for testing during duty hours, provided the supervisor was notified by the affected member at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled testing.