DART POLICE DEPARTMENT
PHYSICAL ABILITY TEST
The physical ability test is designed to test a person’s physical strength, muscular endurance, and agility that
DART Police Officers will use throughout their career. Passing this test demonstrates the applicant possesses
the minimum physical ability level to perform the duties of a DART Police Officer.
The test is comprised of three portions: sit up test, 300 meter run, and push up test. Each portion of the test
must be passed. The physical ability test is a pass/fail element of the selection process; applicants who do not
pass will be disqualified.
Sit Up Test
Applicants must complete 30 sit ups in one minute to pass this portion of the test. Incorrectly performed sit
ups will not be scored. A correctly performed sit up is described as follows:
1. The applicant starts by lying on his/her back, knees bent at a 90 degree angle, heels flat on the floor,
with the fingers of both hands laced and held behind the head. Applicant must avoid pulling on the
head or neck with the hands. The buttocks must remain on the floor with no thrusting of the hips.
2. Another applicant or test administrator holds the feet down firmly while the applicant sits up to a
vertical position.
3. In the up position, the applicant should touch elbows to knees and then return to the reclining position
until the shoulder blades touch the floor. This is one repetition. (See diagram below.)
4. The applicant then performs as many correct sit ups as possible in one minute.
5. Any resting should be done in the up position.
6. Breathing should be as normal as possible and applicants should not hold their breath.
7. Neck remains in the neutral position. Do not pull on the head or neck.
300 Meter Run Test
Applicants must complete a 300 meter run on a flat surface in 74 seconds to pass this portion of the test.
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Push Up Test
Applicants must complete 20 push ups in one minute to pass this portion of the test. Incorrectly performed
push ups will not be scored. A correctly performed push up is described as follows:
1. The hands are placed slightly wider than shoulder width apart, with fingers pointing forward. Feet
must be together with toes touching the floor. A test administrator will place a 3 inch cushion on the
floor below the applicant’s chest.
2. Starting from the up position (elbows extended), the applicant must keep the back, buttocks, and legs
straight at all times and lower the body to the floor until the chest touches the cushion. Applicant then
returns to the up position. This is one repetition. (See diagram below.)
3. Resting should be done in the up position. Both hands must remain in contact with the floor at all
times.
Preparation instructions
Weeks/Months prior to the test
1. If you currently have a physical work out regimen that does not include push ups, sit ups, and running,
you should include these in your regimen. It is recommended that you allow yourself a gradual
increase in intensity.
2. If you do not currently have a physical work out regimen, you should start one that includes strength
and endurance exercises, to specifically include push ups, sit ups, and running. It is recommended that
you allow yourself a gradual increase in intensity.
Day of the test
1. The meal preceding your test should be light and should be consumed within two to four hours prior to
your appointment. Please be sure to eat a light breakfast (i.e., toast, bagel, juice), because this enables
you to better handle physical exertion.
2. Continue taking your medications as usual, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
3. Wear appropriate clothing, which includes gym shorts or sweat pants, t-shirt, athletic shoes and socks.
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