Veteran's Preference Guidance
You earned it. Make sure you claim it. Veteran's preference applies differently at federal, state, and local agencies — understanding the rules is how you turn your service into a competitive advantage.
Join the Waitlist — Get Early AccessFederal Veteran's Preference
Federal veteran's preference is governed by the Veterans' Preference Act of 1944 and applies to most competitive service positions, including federal law enforcement. Points are added to passing examination scores. Some preference categories also provide absolute protections against being passed over in favor of non-veterans.
5-Point Preference (TP)
Awarded to veterans who served on active duty in the Armed Forces and were separated under honorable conditions after completing at least 2 years of service, or serving in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign medal was authorized.
10-Point Preference — Compensable Disability (CP)
Awarded to veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 10% or more (but less than 30%). Most common preference category.
10-Point Preference — Disability (CPS)
Awarded to veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 30% or more. Provides additional protections and placement advantages.
10-Point Preference — Derived (XP)
Awarded to certain spouses, widows/widowers, or mothers of veterans who are not eligible themselves but whose service member was killed in action, has a service-connected disability, or is 100% disabled.
How to Apply Preference on USAJobs
- ✓Select your veteran preference category in your USAJobs profile
- ✓Upload your DD-214 (Member 4 copy) to document your service
- ✓If claiming disability preference, upload your VA disability rating letter
- ✓Derived preference (spouse/widow/mother) requires additional documentation
- ✓BadgePrep's Federal Resume Writer ensures your preference is correctly documented throughout your application
State-Level Veteran's Preference
All 50 states have veteran's preference laws for state employment, but they vary significantly in scope, point values, and which positions they cover. Some states extend preference to local government hiring; others limit it to state civil service positions only.
- ✓Point additions to written exam scores (typically 5 or 10 points)
- ✓Absolute preference — veterans go to the top of the hiring list regardless of score
- ✓Tie-breaking — veteran status breaks ties in competitive scoring
- ✓Some states extend preference to surviving spouses and disabled veterans' spouses
- ✓Check your state's specific civil service commission rules for law enforcement positions
Local Agency Preference
Municipal police departments, county sheriff's offices, and fire departments set their own preference policies — often governed by local civil service rules or collective bargaining agreements.
- ✓Many local agencies offer 5–10 point additions to exam scores
- ✓Some agencies have dedicated veteran hiring events and lateral programs
- ✓Military police, combat arms, and security clearance holders often preferred for LEO roles
- ✓Contact each agency's recruiting office directly to verify current preference policies
- ✓Some agencies offer preference for honorable discharge regardless of disability status
Making Your Military Experience Work for You
Beyond preference points, your military service gives you real advantages that civilian candidates don't have. The key is translating them into language that resonates with hiring panels.
How BadgePrep Helps You Prepare
Tools built for veterans navigating the federal hiring process — from resume to appointment.
Federal Resume Writer
USAJobs-format resume builder with veteran's preference fields and DD-214 guidance built in.
Federal Agency Guides
See how veterans' preference is applied at FBI, CBP, DEA, USSS, and more.
Disqualifier Checker
Confirm your eligibility before applying — including military-specific considerations.
Application Tracker
Track your federal applications with veteran's preference status noted.
Your Service Earned You An Advantage.
BadgePrep helps you claim every advantage you've earned — veteran's preference, federal resume formatting, and agency-specific hiring guides for every major federal agency.