Phase 1: Apply and Testing 

1. Apply with the City of Portland  

2. Take the NTN

• It is encouraged to take NTN Test within 60 days of application (if you possess a bachelor’s degree or you’re a lateral officer, you do not need to take the NTN test). Create account with the National Testing Network (NTN). We have partnered with the National Testing Network (NTN) to administer the entry level test to become a Portland Police Officer. This allows our applicants to take the test from anywhere in the country. 

• Schedule your exams with NTN. There are three parts to the 2.5-hour test: a video-based human relations test; a reading ability test; and a written language ability test.

• Please make sure you elect to have your scores sent to the "Portland Police Bureau Police Officer" through NTN. Passing scores for the NTN test are: 65% on the video portion; 70% on the reading ability; and 70% on the written ability. We will pull scores and applications approximately every 14 days.

If at any time during the process you have concerns or questions, please contact our Personnel Division or the NTN Support Line at 866-563-3882.