Thank you for considering a career with the District of Columbia Department of Corrections (DOC). We’re excited that you’re interested in joining our team, and we’re here to assist you every step of the way. The application process involves multiple steps, but don’t let that discourage you—we’re committed to helping you. Please remember that the entire process can take up to six months, so patience is key. If you ever have questions about your application status or need any assistance, our Human Resources team is ready to help. You can reach us at (202) 671-2131.

Criteria	Requirements
Age	Individuals may apply if they are 20 years & 6 months at the time of application
Education	High School Diploma or GED
General work experience	At least of year of verifiable general work experience
Driver’s License	Must have a valid driver’s license
Citizenship/Permanent Residency Status	Citizen or permanent resident with at least 1 year of permanent residency status
Physical Agility Test	70% passage rate required

Applicants will only be invited to proceed to the next step if they successfully clear the prior step.

Step 1 – Apply Online

Submit your application online at careers.dc.gov. You can search for the Correctional Officer position using JOB ID 26009.

Step 2 – Complete Supplemental Application

Once your initial application is reviewed, DOC Human Resources will contact you with instructions to complete a Supplemental Information Form. You’ll need to submit scanned copies of the following documents:

• Signed and Notarized Authorization for Release of Information and Liability Release Agreement
• Social security card
• Valid US driver’s license
• Certified copy of your motor vehicle driver’s history (available at your local DMV)
• High school diploma, GED certificate, or high school transcript
• DD-214 (military information, if applicable)

Step 3 – Attend Correctional Officer Pre-Employment Testing (COPET)

You will receive an email invitation to attend the in-person Correctional Officer Pre-Employment Testing (COPET), where you will be required to complete a physical agility test, video scenario tests, and a psychological evaluation. Additionally, you will receive a Background Questionnaire Booklet (Blue Book) and a Medical Release Form, along with deadlines for completion.

Step 4 – Attend Second Psychological Evaluation

After passing the initial COPET, you will be scheduled for a second psychological evaluation, followed by a brief interview with a psychologist.

Step 5 – Attend Background Investigation Interview

If you pass the psychological evaluations, you will be invited to attend a Background Investigation Interview with the DOC Office of Investigative Services.

Step 6 – Attend In-Person Background Investigation Interview

Following the background interview, you will be required to attend an in-person psychological review with DOC’s background investigators.

Step 7 – Drug Test, TB Test, and Physical Exam

Upon clearing the previous steps, DOC will register you with LabCorp for a urinalysis drug test. You will also need to complete a Physical Examination and Tuberculosis (TB) Test with a certified physician of your choice and submit the results to DOC HR.

Step 8 – Accept Final Job Offer

Once you successfully clear the drug test, TB test, and physical examination, you will receive a Job Offer Letter from DOC HR with your start date. Simply sign and return the offer to DOC HR to finalize your acceptance. We wish you the best of luck throughout the application process and look forward to the possibility of welcoming you to the DOC team!

Other Employment Opportunities

If you are interested in learning of other employment opportunities with the DC Department of Corrections, please our Job Announcements page.