IRS Special Agent Test
How Do I Pass the IRS Special Agent Exam?
The IRS Special Agent Test is a key part of the hiring process for federal criminal investigators. It assesses logical reasoning, situational judgment, and work style. To succeed, review the exam format and use free IRS Special Agent practice tests to prepare under timed conditions. Focus on sharpening your reading comprehension and understanding of investigative principles. With the right tools and preparation, you can improve your score and move forward in the IRS Criminal Investigation hiring process.
IRS Special Agent Test – What It Is and How to Prepare
The IRS Special Agent Exam is a key part of the hiring process for becoming a Criminal Investigator (Special Agent) with the IRS Criminal Investigation Division (IRS-CI). These agents are federal law enforcement officers responsible for investigating tax fraud, money laundering, organized crime, and cyber-financial crimes.
What Is the IRS Special Agent Test?
The IRS Special Agent Test is a two-part assessment process used to evaluate a candidate’s skills and suitability for investigative work in a financial law enforcement environment. The test typically includes:
1. Occupational Questionnaire
Measures your background, job-related experience, and self-rated competencies.
Often completed during the application stage via USAJOBS.gov.
Scored automatically to determine eligibility.
2. USA Hire Assessment (If Required)
A computer-based test evaluating:
Reading Comprehension
Logical Reasoning
Situational Judgment
Personality Traits and Work Style
IRS Special Agent Hiring Process
Apply on USAJOBS.gov when openings are posted.
Submit transcripts (must have at least 15 semester hours in accounting or a related field).
Complete assessments (Occupational Questionnaire + USA Hire Test).
Structured interview with IRS-CI agents.
Medical and physical exam (includes a vision/hearing check and drug screening).
Background investigation and Top Secret security clearance.
Law Enforcement Training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC).
How to Prepare
Use free IRS Special Agent practice tests to review reading comprehension, logic, and situational judgment.
Familiarize yourself with federal tax law and financial investigation basics.
Practice answering behavior-based interview questions in the STAR format.
Get comfortable working under time constraints using test simulations.
Tip: The IRS Special Agent role combines law enforcement skills with financial expertise. Candidates with accounting, auditing, or criminal justice backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply.
USMS Physical Fitness Test – What to Expect and How to Prepare
The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) Physical Fitness Test (PFT) is a critical part of the hiring process for aspiring Deputy U.S. Marshals. It ensures candidates meet the physical demands of law enforcement duties such as fugitive apprehension, courtroom security, and prisoner transport. The test follows a standardized format and is scored based on age and gender.
PFT Components:
1-Minute Sit-Ups – Measures core strength and endurance.
1-Minute Push-Ups – Assesses upper-body strength.
1.5-Mile Run – Tests cardiovascular endurance.
Optional: 300-Meter Sprint – May be included to measure short-burst speed and agility.
Each event must be completed within a set time or repetition range, and failing one portion can result in disqualification. Scoring is based on minimum performance standards that increase depending on your assigned training class or academy date.
FAQ
The USMS Entrance Exam is a written test used to assess applicants for the Deputy U.S. Marshal position. It includes sections on reading comprehension, logical reasoning, situational judgment, and basic math.
You must apply through USAJOBS.gov when a vacancy announcement is posted. The process includes submitting a federal resume, completing the entrance exam, passing a structured interview, and undergoing background checks and fitness evaluations.
Yes. All qualified applicants must take and pass the USMS written exam to move forward in the hiring process for the Deputy U.S. Marshal role.
Yes. Candidates must pass the USMS Physical Fitness Test (PFT), which includes push-ups, sit-ups, a 1.5-mile run, and possibly a 300-meter sprint. Failing any portion may disqualify you.
The process can take 6 to 12 months or longer. Timelines vary based on background investigations, clearance requirements, and available academy dates.
All new Deputies attend the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) in Glynco, Georgia, for a 21-week basic training program.
