How to Complete a Personal History Statement (PHS)
Completing a Personal History Statement (PHS) is one of the most important steps in the police hiring process. It is also one of the most time-consuming.
Many applicants feel overwhelmed when they first open the packet. The forms ask for years of personal information, and even small mistakes can delay the background investigation.
The good news is that with preparation and attention to detail, you can complete your Personal History Statement accurately and confidently.
What Is a Personal History Statement?
A Personal History Statement is a detailed questionnaire that allows the hiring agency to learn more about your background.
The information you provide helps background investigators verify your history and determine whether you meet the standards expected of a future law enforcement officer.
You may be asked to provide information about:
Previous residences
Employment history
Education
Military service
Driving history
Criminal history
Financial history
Family members
Personal references
Foreign travel
Prior law enforcement applications
Because investigators verify much of this information, accuracy is extremely important.
Start Gathering Information Early
One of the biggest mistakes applicants make is waiting until the last minute.
Before beginning your PHS, gather important records such as:
Driver's license
Social Security card
Birth certificate
Employment records
School transcripts
Military records (if applicable)
Vehicle registration information
Contact information for references
Previous addresses and approximate dates
Having everything ready beforehand will make the process much easier.
Be Honest
If there is one piece of advice that applies to every section of the Personal History Statement, it is this:
Always answer honestly.
Applicants sometimes worry that admitting a past mistake will automatically disqualify them.
In many cases, investigators are more concerned about dishonesty or omissions than the mistake itself.
If a question asks for information, answer it truthfully and completely.
Answer Every Question
Do not leave questions blank unless the instructions specifically allow it.
If a question does not apply to you, follow the instructions provided on the form (for example, writing "N/A" when appropriate).
Incomplete applications often delay the hiring process.
Double-Check Dates
Applicants commonly estimate dates from memory.
Whenever possible, verify dates using:
Tax records
Previous employment records
School records
Military documents
Utility bills
Lease agreements
Even approximate dates should be as accurate as possible.
Keep Your Information Consistent
The information in your Personal History Statement should match information provided during other stages of the hiring process.
Examples include:
Employment dates
Addresses
Driver's license information
Education history
Military service
Inconsistencies may require additional clarification and can delay your background investigation.
List All Required Information
Applicants occasionally leave out:
Temporary jobs
Seasonal employment
Short-term residences
Traffic citations
Previous names or aliases
Prior applications with other agencies
Read each question carefully and provide all requested information.
Review Everything Before Submitting
After completing your packet, review it one final time.
Ask yourself:
Did I answer every question?
Are all dates complete?
Did I sign every required page?
Are all required documents attached?
Is every answer truthful and accurate?
Taking an extra thirty minutes to review your application can prevent weeks of delays later.
Keep a Copy for Your Records
If possible, keep a copy of your completed Personal History Statement.
This can help you:
Prepare for your background interview
Answer follow-up questions
Maintain consistency throughout the hiring process
Reference information if you apply to another agency in the future
Common Mistakes Applicants Make
Some of the most common errors include:
Leaving questions blank
Forgetting previous addresses
Omitting employment history
Guessing dates without verifying them
Forgetting traffic citations
Missing signatures
Providing incomplete reference information
Waiting until the deadline to begin
Most of these mistakes are preventable with careful preparation.
Final Thoughts
Completing your Personal History Statement is more than paperwork—it is your opportunity to demonstrate honesty, responsibility, and attention to detail.
Take your time.
Read every question carefully.
Verify your information whenever possible.
Most importantly, be truthful.
A well-prepared Personal History Statement helps background investigators complete their work more efficiently and allows you to move through the hiring process with greater confidence.
