Fish and Wildlife Warden Career: Application Process

To Apply

Applicants meeting the minimum requirements (i.e., education, age, etc.) need to complete a standard State Examination Application- STD 678 (PDF)(opens in new tab) and provide a POST Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery PELLETB(opens in new tab) exam with a score of 42 or greater. If you need a PELLETB please contact ledwardenhiringunit@wildlife.ca.gov 

These two items must be sent to CDFW Human Resources by email or mail.

Email (preferred): wildlifecadetexamsubmission@wildlife.ca.gov.

Mailing address: California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Attention: HR- Recruitment and Selection Unit, P.O. Box 944209, Sacramento, CA 94244-2090

*Soon after your initial documents are accepted by HR, the Law Enforcement Division's Backgrounds, Hiring, and Recruitment Unit will contact you to request a copy of your unofficial transcripts and a Criminal Record Supplemental Questionnaire  

Physical Ability Test

  • The Physical Ability Test measures endurance, flexibility, and strength. The test consists of the following components:
  • 300 Meter Run
  • Push Ups in 1 minute
  • Sit Ups in 1 minute
  • 1.5 mile run
  • Swim Test

YouTube Link for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife's Law Enforcement Division's PAT(opens in new tab)

Please see attached for details on the Physical Abilities Test (PDF)(opens in new tab)(opens in new tab)

Special Physical Requirements

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife's Law Enforcement Division follows the guidelines set by Peace Officer's Standards and Training (POST). A vision requirement of 20/40 uncorrected is required in order to qualify. Please see the POST Medical Screening Manual(opens in new tab) for full details.

Background Investigation

A thorough investigation is conducted into each candidate’s background to determine if he/she meets the POST job dimensions for a peace officer.

  • Integrity
  • Impulse Control / Attention to Safety
  • Substance Abuse and other risk taking behavior
  • Stress Tolerance
  • Confronting and overcoming problems
  • Obstacles and adversity
  • Conscientiousness
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Decision making and judgment
  • Communication skills
  • Learning ability
  • Observational skills

Each candidate will be required to be fingerprinted and the fingerprints will be submitted to the California Department of Justice and the FBI to check for criminal history. A polygraph examination is also used to verify the information submitted by each applicant during the examination process. Specific areas covered in the background investigation include:

  • Personal Information
  • Relative and References
  • Education
  • Residences
  • Experience and Employment
  • Military Service
  • Financial
  • Legal
  • Motor Vehicle Operation
  • General Information

Medical Examination

Each candidate must complete a State health questionnaire and be examined by a physician. The results of the medical questionnaire and examination are submitted to the State Medical Officer to determine the presence of any medical condition/s that may prevent the candidate from performing his/her duties as a Warden.

Psychological Evaluation

Each candidate is required to complete a psychological screening administered by CDFW and be personally interviewed by a licensed psychologist.