Frequently Asked Questions

What is a polygraph?

A professional polygraph examination has three phases: a pretest phase, data collection (the test) phase, and a post-test phase, which includes test data analysis. A typical polygraph examination will last at least 90 minutes, and sometimes longer.

In the pretest phase, required paperwork is completed and the polygraph examiner gets to talk with the examinee about polygraph and the issue being tested.

The data collection or "test" phase takes place in a quiet room where distractions are held to an absolute minimum. The examiner will attach the sensor components to the person and then ask the previously reviewed questions that are designed to be answered “yes” or “no”. Data is collected by the sensors and instrument and a computerized recording of physiological responses is obtained.

In the post-test phase, the examiner will analyze and score the chart data and render an opinion as to the truthfulness of the person being examined.

Are polygraphs reliable?

The polygraph has been in use for over 75 years. During that time approximately 250 studies have been conducted on the accuracy of polygraph tests. Since conditions and factors involved in research will vary, and since a polygraph examination is a very complex process, it is difficult to extract a precise accuracy figure from the data. Nevertheless, the preponderance of available information indicates that the accuracy of a properly trained examiner, utilizing established testing procedures, is around 95% for specific-issue investigations.

Do Outside Factors Influence The Outcome Of A Polygraph Exam?

Professional polygraph examiners take specific steps to mitigate circumstances that could affect the results of the exam. The examiner also take outside factors into consideration when administering the test and analyzing the data to eliminate factors not related to the examination.

What should I wear?

Dress comfortably for private polygraph examinations, but please do not wear tank tops, gym shorts, sweats, bathing suits, baggy shirts, bulky sweaters, or soiled clothes. All polygraph sensors will be donned on the outside of the clothes you wear. If you are taking an exam for pre-employment or other professional purposes, a suit and tie are not required; 'business casual' attire is recommended for those situations.

What else can I do to prepare myself?

Get a good night's sleep and eat something before the examination. Do not schedule your test at the end of a long, hard workday; you want to be fully rested for the examination. If possible, schedule the test on your day off, or at the beginning of your day.

Do not consume any alcoholic beverages or illegally use any drugs for 24 hours prior to the examination.

If you are taking a prescribed medication, continue to take the medication according to your doctor's instructions. If you are worried about the effect of any drug on your ability to take the examination, call before the test and discuss the matter with an examiner.

If you have any injury, illness, or physical condition that you feel could affect your ability to take a test, call and discuss the matter with an examiner.

How do I schedule an appointment?

Polygraph testing is by appointment only. Please email to schedule an appointment. Every effort will be made to accommodate your schedule and conduct the exam promptly.

If you have other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.