San Jose Police Department Policy Manual

The San Jose Police Department (SJPD) posts its Duty Manual and related documents through an official Documents & Policies portal. The Duty Manual functions as a comprehensive set of policies, rules, and procedures governing patrol operations, investigations, supervision, discipline, and administrative practices. Portions of the public version may be redacted for security reasons, but the manual still provides a detailed look at how SJPD expects officers and supervisors to handle day-to-day and high-risk situations in a major tech-driven city.

For SJPD promotion prep, treat the Duty Manual as both a legal framework and a leadership guide. Start by mapping the manual's main sections and identifying which ones:

- Define **core operational standards** (use of force, arrests, searches, pursuits, custody, and report writing).
- Describe **supervisory responsibilities** (incident command, complaint handling, corrective action, evaluations).

Build a study schedule that cycles through operational topics first, then layers on administrative and supervisory material. For each policy, note what is expected of a field supervisor versus a watch commander. Because San Jose is heavily influenced by technology, privacy expectations, and community engagement, pay attention to sections that mention documentation, review of digital evidence, and public transparency.

Key SJPD policy topics worth emphasizing:

- **Use of force and firearms** – definitions, reporting, review mechanisms, and expectations for de-escalation.
- **Vehicle pursuits and emergency response** – criteria for initiation, supervisory control, and termination decisions.
- **Arrest, search, and detention procedures** – legal standards, handling of juveniles, and special populations.
- **Complaints, internal investigations, and discipline** – intake, investigation process, officer rights, and progressive discipline concepts.
- **Body-worn cameras and digital evidence** (where applicable) – activation expectations, review, storage, and supervisory roles.
- **Professional conduct and workplace expectations** – rules related to ethics, off-duty conduct, and interactions with the community.

Organizing these topics into a clear outline makes it much easier to recall the details during testing.

For SJPD promotional exams:

1. **Practice reading policy through a supervisor lens.** When you see a policy rule, ask yourself, “What would I check, correct, or document as a sergeant or lieutenant?”
2. **Create quick-reference guides.** Build one-page summaries for high-liability topics like use of force, pursuits, and complaints that you can review repeatedly before the exam.
3. **Use scenario-based repetition.** Write short scenarios reflecting common San Jose challenges (busy calls, tech hubs, protests, large events) and practice applying the manual step by step.
4. **Track updates.** Because the Duty Manual can be revised, keep a log of any changes announced by the department and review those sections in detail before testing.