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Pre-employment psychological evaluations typically include an interview with a licensed psychologist trained in public safety assessments and psychological tests (e.g., MMPI-3 or PAI) to help assess your personality and mental health status.

A psychological evaluation is an information-gathering process. It's not a pass/fail test. The psychologist evaluates your suitability for the position based on emotional stability, impulse control, judgment, and related factors in the context of the demands of the job role you seek to fill. The psychologist will recommend you, not recommend you, or recommend you with conditions to the hiring agency.

A history of severe mental illness, poor impulse control, untreated substance abuse, unmanaged anger, serious integrity issues, or poor fit between your psychological traits and the job requirements may lead to a disqualifying decision.

You can refuse to participate in a FFD evaluation, but refusal may be considered noncompliance with agency policy or employment conditions, especially in safety-sensitive roles.

A FFD evaluation includes interviews, psychological testing, and review of relevant records. The psychologist gives an opinion on your fitness and may recommend a full return to duty, treatment, or restricted or limited duty.

The psychologist only provides an opinion about your behavioral, emotional, and psychological status. Based on that recommendation, your employer decides whether to return you to duty, reassign you, or terminate you.

It usually consists of a multiple-choice test (like the MMPI-3) and a brief interview. It's designed to identify risks like aggression, instability, and poor judgment.

Testing and interviewing usually take 1-2 hours. Some states require the psychologist submit a standardized form to the licensing agency.

A mental health history does not automatically disqualify you. The psychologist will evaluate your current functioning, stability, and insight when forming an opinion about your appropriateness to carry a firearm in a professional capacity.

Most states allow appeals or second opinions if you are not recommended, but procedures vary. Check with your licensing authority for specific details in your state.