The NYC Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) is accepting applications for Exam No. 6329 — Police Communications Technician, working in the NYPD Communications Section. Police Communications Technicians serve as 911 call-takers — obtaining critical information from callers to initiate emergency assistance — and as radio dispatchers of police resources. The role also involves reviewing pictures, videos, and audio sent via “Text to 911,” along with related clerical and administrative duties.

This is fast-paced, high-stakes work performed under direct supervision, requiring calm judgment and clear communication under pressure. City residency is not required for this position, making it accessible to candidates throughout the region.

Police Communications Technicians work under direct supervision in the NYPD Communications Section. They serve as 911 call-takers — obtaining the information needed from callers to initiate emergency assistance — and as radio dispatchers of police resources. Technicians also view pictures, videos, and listen to audio attachments sent via “Text to 911,” and perform clerical and administrative duties related to emergency services.

• !Around-the-clock shifts: Various tours required, including nights, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. Overtime tours may be required based on departmental needs.
• !Sustained focus: Sitting for extended periods with a headset on while monitoring a computer screen, typing information, and coordinating eye/hand movements while handling emergency calls.
• !High-pressure communication: Speaking calmly and clearly to elicit information and give instructions to a continuous flow of callers under stress, while listening carefully to understand emergency information accurately.
• !Time-critical judgment: Making responsible decisions where timing is critical, while sitting within hearing distance of other call-takers working under similar conditions.

You will be given the test before your qualifications are verified — it is your responsibility to confirm you meet the requirements before applying. If found “Not Qualified,” your application fee will not be refunded. The experience requirement must be met by June 30, 2026; the education requirement must be met by June 30, 2027.

All candidates must have a four-year high school diploma or its educational equivalent, plus one of the following:

• ✓Option A: One year of satisfactory full-time experience performing clerical, typing, or secretarial work
• ✓Option B: One year of satisfactory full-time experience dealing with the public, including obtaining information from persons
• ✓Option C: Successful completion of 30 college semester credits from an accredited college or university
• ✓Option D: Two years of active U.S. military duty with honorable discharge
• +Option E: A satisfactory combination of education and/or experience equivalent to Options A, B, C, or D — but a high school diploma or equivalent is required in all cases.

• !Medical & Psychological Assessment: You will be examined to determine whether you can perform the essential functions of the job. You may be tested medically and psychologically periodically throughout your career to ensure continued fitness for the role. Reasonable accommodations are available for candidates with disabilities where appropriate.
• !Drug Screening: You must pass a drug screening in order to be appointed.
• !Background Investigation: The position is subject to investigation before appointment, including a $75.00 fingerprint screening fee. You must present original or certified documents proving date/place of birth, naturalization (if applicable), military service, and education/experience requirements. False, exaggerated, or misleading statements — or missing documents — may result in disqualification.

The multiple-choice test is given at a computer terminal. Your score determines your ranking on the eligible list. You must achieve a score of at least 70% to pass. Calculators are not permitted on this exam. Certain questions may require you to use documents or other materials supplied on the day of the exam.

All applications must be submitted online only through the Online Application System (OASys) at nyc.gov/examsforjobs. A valid email address is required. You can also apply in person at any DCAS Computer-based Testing & Application Center (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm). Centers are closed Monday, May 25, 2026 and Friday, June 19, 2026.

The $68 application fee may be waived for candidates who qualify under any of the following categories:

If you can speak Spanish, you may be considered for appointment to positions requiring this ability through a process called Selective Certification. If you pass a qualifying test, you may be given preferred consideration for positions requiring this skill. Follow the instructions given to you on the day of the multiple-choice test to indicate your interest.

This requirement may be met at any time during the life of the eligible list. If you qualify later, submit a request via nyc.gov/CivilServiceNowNYC using the “Selective Certification” subject, including the exam title/number, your name, and OASys Profile ID.

If you pass the multiple-choice test, your name will be placed on the eligible list in final score order. You’ll receive a list number and be notified of your results via email. The eligible list determines the order in which candidates are considered for appointment and is typically active for four years.

If you believe your test was rated incorrectly, you can appeal to DCAS’s Committee on Manifest Errors through OASys. Your appeal must clearly state the reasons for requesting a higher score.

Make-up tests may be available for: military duty; compulsory court or public body attendance; on-the-job injury or illness (City employees); death of a spouse, domestic partner, parent, parent-in-law, sibling, or child within one week of the test (City employees); DCAS error; temporary disability; or pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition.

Contact DCAS at testingaccommodations@dcas.nyc.gov as soon as possible with documentation.

Requests for disability accommodations, alternate test dates for religious observances, and Legacy credit are handled through the DCAS Special Circumstances Guide.

Veterans and disabled veterans may be eligible for application fee waivers, preference credits, make-up exams, retroactive seniority, and age deductions. See the Civil Service Guidance for Veterans.