Frequently Asked Questions

You can apply online through CalCareers. Accounts are free for all job seekers. 

Watch this video from Work for California or visit the application process page on GoGovernment to learn how to search for jobs on CalCareers. 

Yes. California requires you to have already taken examinations for the class specification(s) you’re pursuing at the time of your application.

You can learn more about employment exams by watching this video from Work for California or by visiting the exams and assessments page on GoGovernment.

Each job bulletin contains an application package checklist that describes each of the required or optional documents to submit with your application. Commonly, you will need to submit your resume, transcripts (especially if you are relying on education to meet the minimum qualifications) and a Statement of Qualifications. You may also be asked for certificates or licenses, depending on the class specification. 

Always read the job bulletin to confirm the exact document requirements. To learn more about California job postings, visit How to Read a Job Posting.

Many departments hire paid and unpaid interns and part-time student assistants. Interns and students are nontesting classifications. Therefore, no examination or assessment is required. Anyone meeting the minimum qualifications listed on the Classification Specification may apply to these vacant positions.

Yes. State departments offer opportunities for current high school students.

Yes. Federal employees are not part of the state of California civil service system. Therefore, they are not eligible to transfer into civil service positions and must take a state exam if seeking state employment. For more information, visit the “Federal Workers, California Welcomes You!” page on CalCareers.

Yes. County employees are not part of the state of California civil service system. Therefore, they are not eligible to transfer into civil service positions and must take a state exam if interested in state employment. 

If you are a person with a disability who (1) has a physical or mental impairment, or a medical condition that limits one or more major life activities; (2) has a record or history of such impairment or medical conditions; or (3) is regarded as having such an impairment or medical condition, you may wish to participate in CalHR’s Limited Examination and Appointment Program, authorized by Government Code sections 19240-19243.4. For additional information, please refer to CalHR’s Information for Persons with Disabilities page.

Generally, only a few state jobs require U.S. citizenship. You must have work authorization and meet all requirements set forth by the Immigration and Naturalization Service to be eligible to work in the United States. 

No. You do not need to be a current resident of California to apply. Regardless of residency, job bulletins are open to all who meet the posted minimum qualifications.

Often, yes. Not all job bulletins ask for an SOQ, but if it is mentioned, it is required and will be used to assess applicants. 

Before you submit an SOQ, proofread your draft. Spelling, grammar and formatting can be evaluated to grade application quality, and errors may result in disqualification.

Any experience that shows you have performed on a level comparable with the minimum qualifications can count. This can include paid or unpaid work, part-time experiences, military service, volunteer work, internships or student-assistant work. 

Whatever form your experience takes, ensuring that your application describes the direct connection to the required minimum qualifications from the job bulletin is essential.

Some jobs may offer substitutions between education and experience, so read the job bulletin closely to verify eligibility.