Every civil service test has its own examination announcement that sets its scoring. Here is what New York State and New York City publish.
The short answer
A passing score is 70 or above on New York State exams. The NYPD Police Officer exam also needs 70%.
Passing doesn't mean a job offer. Your score sets your rank on an eligible list, and agencies hire from the top of that list. Always check your own exam announcement for its pass mark.
Checked October 24, 2026 against the official sources listed at the bottom of this page.
From the Department of Civil Service guide Getting a Job with New York State:
Results are emailed, in most cases in 120 days or less.
A passing score is 70 or above, and the result usually includes your rank on the eligible list.
The three highest-scoring people on the list are considered first for openings.
Most eligible lists last one to four years.
NYPD Police Officer
The DCAS notice for exams 7311-7322 (July 2026 to June 2027) says you must score at least 70% to pass. The fee is $0. If you pass, your name goes on an eligible list in score order. If you think your test was rated wrong, you can appeal to DCAS through OASys. Police practice test.
Firefighter
The state's Firefighter Series test guide explains the subjects, not a pass mark; your exam announcement sets it. Firefighter practice test. Florida's law enforcement exam has its own rule: SOCE passing score.
More questions
What is a passing score on a New York State civil service exam?
70 or above, per the Department of Civil Service. Check your exam announcement, which sets the scoring for that exam.
What score do you need to pass the NYPD exam?
At least 70% (DCAS Notice of Examination 7311-7322).