🔒 NYC Correction Officer Exam 7302
The Correction Officer position with the NYC Department of Correction is one of the highest-paying entry-level law enforcement careers in New York City. Officers are responsible for maintaining security, supervising inmates, and ensuring safety within correctional facilities.
📌 Exam Details
| Exam Title | Correction Officer |
|---|---|
| Exam Number | 7302 |
| Application Period | September 2, 2026 – October 27, 2026 |
| Application Fee | $0 (No Fee Required) |
| Test Date | Expected December 15, 2026 |
💡 This exam has no application fee, making it one of the easiest law enforcement exams to apply for.
📝 How to Apply
👉 Apply Online via NYC OASys System
👉 Learn About NYC Civil Service Process
Related Law Enforcement Careers:
💰 Salary & Benefits
Starting Salary: $56,838 per year
Top Salary (5.5 Years): $109,352+
Uniform Allowance: $1,100 annually
💡 Includes full health insurance, pension, and longevity pay increases.
👮 Job Duties
- Supervise inmates and maintain facility security
- Conduct searches for contraband
- Escort inmates within and outside facilities
- Monitor inmate activities, meals, and visits
- Respond to emergencies and disturbances
- Prepare reports and maintain logs
- Enforce rules and ensure safety procedures
⚠️ Correction Officers are responsible for the care, custody, and control of inmates.
⚠️ Working Conditions
- Rotating shifts (nights, weekends, holidays)
- Physically demanding work environment
- Close interaction with inmates
- Exposure to stressful and high-risk situations
- Long periods of standing and walking
🎓 Minimum Qualifications
You must meet one of the following:
- 39 college credits (Academy adds additional credits)
- High school diploma + 6 months military, social service, or law enforcement experience
- High school diploma + 1 year of full-time work experience
- 2 years of military reserve service (honorable discharge)
⚠️ Additional Requirements
Age Requirement
17 to take exam, 21 for appointment.
Driver License
Must obtain NYS driver license before completing academy.
Background Check
Strict background investigation required. Felonies disqualify candidates.
Medical & Psychological
Must meet physical and mental fitness standards.
Physical Test
Must pass fitness test and maintain standards throughout career.
Drug Testing
Strict zero-tolerance policy for illegal drug use.
📍 Residency Requirement
Must live in NYC or surrounding counties (Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Orange, Rockland, Putnam) at time of appointment.
🧠 Exam Format
The exam is a multiple-choice test assessing decision-making, reasoning, and job-related skills.
📈 Career Growth
- Promotion to Captain (Correction)
- Advancement to Warden positions
- Long-term pension and benefits
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is the exam really free?
Yes, there is no application fee.
How much do Correction Officers make?
Starting at $56,838 and exceeding $109,000 after several years.
Is this job physically demanding?
Yes, it requires strength, endurance, and the ability to respond to emergencies.
Do I need college?
Not necessarily. There are multiple ways to qualify.
⚠️ This page is for informational purposes only. Refer to official NYC Department of Correction and DCAS sources for full details.