MINNEAPOLIS, MN, Jan. 29, 2018 – The Minnesota Law Enforcement agency has entered into an agreement with Pearson VUE, the global leader in computer-based testing (CBT), as its new exam delivery vendor.
The announcement follows a competitive bid process and is the state’s first partnership with a national CBT provider. Pearson VUE will deliver the license exams for cadets to complete the POST (Police Officer Standards and Training) test for minimum competency for entry into the law enforcement sector.
The exams will be transformed from paper-and-pencil to CBT meaning candidates can schedule their test on-demand and attend a local, highly secure Pearson VUE testing center at their convenience.
As an occupational regulatory agency, POST is responsible for licensing over 10,800 active peace officers and over 100 active part-time peace officers. The board has the legislative authority to adopt administrative rules that have the force and effect of law, enabling the establishment of policies and standards to which all licensees must adhere.
Nate Gove, Minnesota POST board executive director, said: “POST board is always looking at ways we can improve to meet the needs of our officers and the communities they serve. We are excited to take another step towards bettering our training and testing processes by providing convenient services to people entering the law enforcement profession. Our partnership with Pearson VUE will enable our candidates to schedule their exams at highly secure testing locations throughout the state of Minnesota and around the country.”
Bob Whelan, president of Pearson Assessments, said: “The transformation of these exams from paper-and-pencil to CBT will mean greater access and convenience for peace officers across Minnesota, and we look forward to working with the POST board to implement this program.”
About Minnesota POST
The POST Board's mission is to establish law enforcement licensing and training requirements and set standards for law enforcement agencies and officers in the state of Minnesota. POST is responsible for licensing over 10,500 active peace officers and over 250 active part-time peace officers. The board has the legislative authority to adopt administrative rules that have the force and effect of law, rules that enable the board to establish policies and standards to which all licensees must adhere.
To implement the board’s mission, the board and its staff perform the following functions, among others:
- Administer a professional licensing program, which includes examination development and administration, licensure, and re-licensure.
- Develop, coordinate, and approve continuing education programs for peace officers and part-time peace officers.
- Work cooperatively with law enforcement trainers, educators and practitioners to develop in-service training programs.
- Develop learning objectives for and certify the Professional Peace Officer Education programs at participating colleges and universities.
- Provide technical assistance to colleges, universities, law enforcement agencies and other groups involved in the practice of law enforcement and law enforcement education.
- Conduct studies and research projects that relate to peace officer education and the practice of law enforcement.