FAQs About Polygraph Exams

Have Questions About Taking A Polygraph Exam?

We can help. Read below some of the most frequently asked questions. If you don’t get all of the answers you need, reach out to us! We are happy to help.

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About Polygraphs

Taking a polygraph exam (often called a lie detector test) can be stressful for most people, even if you have nothing to hide. It’s completely normal to feel anxious! But there’s no need to worry. We understand your concerns and want to help put your mind at ease with our list of Frequently Asked Questions. As we work with more clients, we continue to expand this list to address the things that matter most to you. Polygraph exams are science-based tests that measure your body’s responses to questions, and as technology has advanced, so has the accuracy of these tests. This should give you more confidence in their reliability.

Some Questions We Answer Are:

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Are polygraph examinations admissible in a court of law?

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How do I choose a Polygraph examiner?

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I believe one of my employee’s is stealing from me, can I have them tested?

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Can you beat a polygraph examination?

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Can I learn more about polygraph examinations on the internet?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a polygraph exam?

A polygraph exam, also known as a lie detector test, is a type of psychological evaluation used to determine whether or not an individual is being truthful. The polygraph exam is based on the idea that certain physiological responses, such as changes in blood pressure, pulse rate, and respiration, are associated with deception. During the exam, the polygraph operator asks the examinee questions while monitoring these physiological responses using a polygraph machine. The operator then analyzes the results to determine whether or not the examinee is being truthful.

There are several different components to a polygraph exam. The first is the pretest phase, in which the polygraph operator explains the process to the examinee and asks questions to establish a baseline for the physiological responses. This may include questions about the examinee’s personal history, as well as questions designed to elicit a physiological reaction (called “control” questions). The operator may also use this time to discuss any concerns or issues the examinee has about the exam.

Next is the testing phase, in which the operator asks the examinee relevant questions. These questions are typically related to the issue or event being investigated. For example, if the test is in connection with a criminal investigation, the questions might be about the details of the crime. The operator will also ask additional “control” questions to elicit a physiological response.

After the testing phase is complete, the polygraph operator will analyze the exam results. This involves comparing the physiological responses to the relevant and control questions and looking for any significant differences. The operator may also use other techniques, such as analyzing the examinee’s body language and verbal responses, to help interpret the results.

There are a few different types of polygraph exams that may be used in different situations. One common type is the “comparison” exam, in which the examinee is asked questions about multiple events or issues, and the operator looks for differences in the physiological responses to help determine which events or issues are truthful and which are not. Another type is the “confrontational” exam, in which the operator directly confronts the examinee with the exam results and asks for an explanation.

Polygraph exams are widely used in a variety of settings. Law enforcement agencies often use them as a tool to investigate crimes and in other settings such as employment screening and military security clearance evaluations.

How much does a polygraph cost?

There is typically no set price for a polygraph examination. Pricing varies based on the type of

test, the complexity of the issue or issues, and the experience of the examiner. Call or email for

pricing options.

How long does a polygraph test take?

A specific issue (single issue) polygraph examination takes around 2-hours. Screening

examinations (multiple issue examinations) may take slightly longer than the specific issue

examination due to the variety or complexity of the issues under examination.

Can you beat a polygraph examination?

Generally speaking, you cannot beat a polygraph examination. People sometimes try and beat

the polygraph examination for a number of reasons. Some of those reasons could be because

they believe being nervous will cause them to fail an examination, or they are concerned the

examiner might not get the correct answer. The polygraph constantly collects physiological

data that is later analyzed by the examiner to determine the veracity of a person’s answers;

however, it is possible to beat the examiner if he/she is not carefully evaluating the process.

Can I find answers on the internet regarding the polygraph examination?

There is some good information regarding polygraph examinations on the internet; however, it

must come from a trusted source. Some of the trusted sources would be the American

Polygraph Association website, the American Association of Police Polygraphist website, or

other peer-reviewed and scholarly sources.

I believe one of my employee’s is stealing from me, can I have them tested?

Yes, but certain conditions must be met in compliance with the Employee Polygraph Protection

Act

(EPPA)

of 1988. Private employer conditions are:

The incident must be an ongoing specific investigation.
It must be an identifiable economic loss to the employer.
Provide the employee with a written statement that includes:

a. identification of the company and location of employee

b. description of the loss or activity under investigation

c. location of the loss

d. specific amount of the loss

e. type of economic loss

f. how the employee had access to the loss Note: access alone is not sufficient grounds

for polygraph testing

g. what kind of reasonable suspicion there is to suspect the employee of being involved in

the loss.

4. The Statement provided to the employee MUST be signed by someone other than the

polygraph examiner, who is authorized to legally bind the employee, and MUST be

retained by the employer for at least 3 years.

5. Provide the employee with 48 hours advanced notice (not counting weekends or

holidays) to the date and time of the scheduled polygraph test.

__________________

For a complete list of requirements for EPPA please visit:

https://webapps.dol.gov/elaws/elg/eppa.htm?_ga=2.178443810.707999126.1639530886-

1158354285.1639530886#EmplRights

Are polygraph examinations admissible in a court of law?

Generally, they are not admissible; however, they can be admissible if the polygraph is stipulated

prior to the conductance of the examination. In criminal cases, when the defense and

prosecution counsel stipulate to the results being admissible, it is possible for the results of the

examination to be considered during a criminal proceeding.

How do I choose an examiner?

When choosing an examiner there are many things to consider. Research the examiner to make

certain he or she is reputable in the profession and has integrity. The examiner should be bonded

or insured. The examiner must be a member in good standing with the American Polygraph

Association. Look for an examiner that excels in the field of Forensic Psychophysiology

(Polygraph). Understand the examiners expertise so that an informed decision can be made.

Contact the examiner and ask any questions that you may have. Most of all, feel comfortable

with the examiner you choose.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 8 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Gilbert Guthrie 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. A very competent and experienced polygraph examiner with over thirty years of investigative experience.  I have attended several of his trainings and have been able to put his knowledge into practice for myself.  He is professional and thorough when taking on a project and will provide you with the best possible service you could ask for.  He is also the best interviewer I have ever seen and will get to the truth of any issue you bring to him.  I would strongly recommend him for any matter where you just want to know what really happened and be given the unbiased truth.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Kenneth Aycock 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very professional and discreet polygraph services.  I have known the owner/founder of Pensacola Polygraph for 20 years and there is no one who is more honest and ethical.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Todd Vande Zande 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent polygraph examiner.  I worked with him when he was the past-president of the Georgia Polygraph Association as well as mentored under him when I became a law enforcement polygraphist in Georgia.  His attention to detail and professionalism are exemplary.  Highly recommend him for any type of polygraph need you may have.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Sean Edgar 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Throughout the last several years, I have known John to be nothing but professional.  While living in Georgia, John was the president of the Georgia Polygraph association, and did a fantastic job.  His leadership was very strong, and his ethics were the best.  John's reputation in the polygraph community is the best among the people that I know.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Sharon Lee 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have known and worked with the owner for many years. He is one of the most knowledgeable and ethical examiners I have had the pleasure of working with. He is extremely skillful and driven to get to the truth. I highly recommend this company and their services.  S. Carroll, retired L.E Lieutenant.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   James Hayes 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have personally known John for many years and as a fellow Polygraph Examiner, I can assure you, an Examination from John will bare the Truth in whatever the matter.  His Ethics, Professionalism and Dedication to to his craft are seldom found in this day and age.   John is a true professional and if I ever needed a test for myself or my family and closest friends, I would send them around the globe to be Examined by John Sweat.   Good luck, Sir!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Rebecca Taylor 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very experienced and helpful with polygraph services. I highly recommend them, and was very happy to find this company in Pensacola.

FAQs About Polygraph Exams

Have Questions About Taking A Polygraph Exam?

Contact Us

About Polygraphs

Some Questions We Answer Are:

Are polygraph examinations admissible in a court of law?

How do I choose a Polygraph examiner?

I believe one of my employee’s is stealing from me, can I have them tested?

Can you beat a polygraph examination?

Can I learn more about polygraph examinations on the internet?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a polygraph exam?

How much does a polygraph cost?

How long does a polygraph test take?

Can you beat a polygraph examination?

Can I find answers on the internet regarding the polygraph examination?

I believe one of my employee’s is stealing from me, can I have them tested?

Are polygraph examinations admissible in a court of law?

How do I choose an examiner?

When The Truth Matters-

Call Pensacola Polygraph

Contact Us