Pre-Employment Polygraph: What Employers and Candidates Need to Know

Pre-employment polygraph examinations are a critical component of the hiring process for law enforcement agencies, government contractors, and security firms. This guide covers everything both employers and candidates need to know.

Who Uses Pre-Employment Polygraphs?

Legal Framework: The EPPA

The Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA) of 1988 restricts most private employers from using polygraph tests. However, there are important exemptions:

• Federal, state, and local government agencies are exempt
• Security service firms (armored car, alarm, guard services)
• Pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors
• Employers authorized to manufacture or distribute controlled substances
• Ongoing investigations involving economic loss or injury

Law enforcement agencies routinely use pre-employment polygraphs as part of their comprehensive background investigation process.

What Pre-Employment Polygraphs Cover

Pre-employment polygraph examinations typically focus on several key areas:

1. Employment History Verification

Questions verify the accuracy of information provided on your application, including previous employers, reasons for leaving, and any disciplinary actions.

2. Criminal History

Beyond what appears in official records, the polygraph explores undisclosed criminal activity, including crimes that may not have resulted in arrest or conviction.

3. Drug Use History

Questions cover past and current drug use, including illegal substances and misuse of prescription medications. Different agencies have different thresholds for disqualification.

4. Integrity and Ethics

Questions may explore theft, dishonesty, or ethical violations in previous employment or personal life that could indicate unsuitability for a position of trust.

For Employers: Best Practices

For Candidates: How to Prepare

If you're facing a pre-employment polygraph, here's what you need to know:

Before the Examination

• Review your application: Be prepared to discuss everything you've disclosed
• Be thorough in your background packet: Disclose everything—omissions are often worse than the underlying issue
• Get adequate sleep: 6-8 hours the night before
• Eat normally: Don't skip meals or overload on caffeine
• Bring required documents: Valid ID, any paperwork provided by the agency

During the Examination

• Listen carefully: Make sure you understand each question before answering
• Answer honestly: Deception is more likely to disqualify you than most disclosures
• Stay still: Unnecessary movement can affect the readings
• Ask for clarification: If a question is unclear, ask the examiner to rephrase it

Common Disqualifying Factors

While policies vary by agency, common issues that may result in disqualification include:

• Recent illegal drug use (timeframes vary by agency and substance)
• Undisclosed criminal activity
• Falsification of application materials
• Pattern of dishonesty or theft
• Domestic violence history
• Significant financial irresponsibility

Important: Many issues that candidates fear will disqualify them actually won't—especially if disclosed upfront. Attempting to hide information is typically far more damaging than the information itself.

The Bottom Line

Pre-employment polygraphs serve an important role in ensuring that individuals in positions of public trust meet the highest standards of integrity. For employers, they're a valuable tool when implemented properly. For candidates, they're an opportunity to demonstrate honesty and suitability for the position.