Police Commander Promotional Exam

Front of the Police Headquarters columbus ohio

The eligible list for Police Commander has been established and is in effect until midnight, June 24, 2026. The next planned administration for this exam is in 2026. Questions regarding this exam can be directed to Chelsea Whims at (614) 645-3647. Additional information will be posted as it becomes available.

Exam Information

Important Dates

2026 Police Commander Promotional Exam

Event Date
Cut-off date for reading list (internal sources) July 1, 2025
Test filing period March 23 – April 6, 2026
Education requirement cut-off April 7, 2026
Exam notices sent on or before April 8, 2026
 Time in rank minimum qualification  April 21, 2026
Written Work Sample April 22, 2026
Oral Board Week of May 3, 2026
Release of tentative results June 10, 2026
Paper inspection of WWS and Oral Board Exam review (by appointment only) June 12, 15, & 16, 2026
Final list and results out June 24, 2026
Eligible list established June 25, 2026

Note: Dates are subject to revision due to unforeseen circumstances.

Exam Resources

Reading List

2026 Columbus Police Commander Promotional Exam Reading List

Revisions cutoff date: July 1, 2025

Internal Division of Police Sources
  • 2023, 2024, and January – June 2025 Legal Updates
  • Arrest, Search, & Seizure Manual
  • Directives Manual
  • Emergency Operations Manual
  • FOP Contract (December 9, 2023 – December 8, 2026)
  • Patrol SOP Manual
  • Supervisor’s Manual
Outside Sources

Supplemental materials may be announced during the application filing period.

Legal Updates

If Legal Updates conflict, the most recent update supersedes prior versions.

Please Note

Candidates may reference listed materials and a dictionary during applicable exam phases. Personal electronic copies are not permitted.

Review the Police Commander Promotional Exam Test Guide