VA Form 0120: VA Police Officer Pre-Employment Checklist – VA Form 0120 is a critical document in the hiring process for becoming a VA Police Officer. This form helps the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) assess an applicant’s suitability and qualifications for protecting Veterans, staff, and facilities across the United States.
If you’re applying for a VA police position through USAJOBS or directly with a VA facility, understanding this form is essential for a smooth application. Below is everything you need to know about VA Form 0120.
What Is VA Form 0120?
VA Form 0120, officially titled the VA Police Officer Pre-Employment Screening Checklist, is used to document background checks, employment history verification, criminal record reviews, and qualification assessments for GS-083 Police Officer candidates.
The form supports pre-employment screening to ensure candidates meet rigorous standards for law enforcement roles within VA medical centers, clinics, and other facilities. It is approved under OMB Control Number 2900-0524 and takes about 10 minutes to process per response, though the overall screening involves multiple parties.
Download the official form here:
Download VA Form 0120 PDF (Latest available version from VA.gov).
Purpose of the VA Police Officer Pre-Employment Screening Checklist
The primary purpose of VA Form 0120 is to verify an applicant’s:
- Criminal history (local and FBI checks)
- Employment background (past 5 years)
- Qualifications for GS-083 series positions
- Suitability for protecting persons and property in a healthcare environment
Human Resources Management and the Chief of Police collaborate to complete different sections. The form ensures candidates have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform VA police duties effectively.
This screening is part of a broader background investigation process required for federal law enforcement positions.
Key Sections of VA Form 0120
Part I – Applicant Information
This section includes basic personal details such as name, Social Security Number, date of birth, and sex. HR staff complete criminal record repository checks using the applicant’s home-of-record for the past five years and an FBI National Crime Information Center check.
Part II – Arrest Record Checks and Certification by Chief of Police
The Chief of Police reviews arrest records and certifies that the candidate has relevant experience for VA police duties. Any records must be explained in Part V.
Part III – Telephone Checks
This section verifies work history from the past 5 years. Inquiries cover:
- Quality of work
- Honesty and character
- Reason for leaving
- Whether the employer would rehire
All negative responses require documentation in Part V.
Part IV – Basis for Qualification and Certification
HR documents how the applicant meets minimum qualifications, including:
- Acceptable job experience
- Substitute education (with transcripts)
- Qualifying military service (specific MOS codes for Army, Marine Corps, Air Force, Navy, etc.)
Part V – Clarifying Statements
Used to provide additional explanations for any issues found in prior sections. HR provides final certification that the applicant meets GS-083 standards.
Who Completes VA Form 0120?
- Human Resources Management: Handles Part I, IV, and final certification.
- Chief of Police / Police and Security Service: Completes arrest record reviews and experience certification (Part II).
- References / Former Employers: Provide input via telephone checks (Part III).
The form is submitted to local HR. It is a joint responsibility outlined in VA Handbook 0730.
How to Prepare for VA Police Officer Screening?
- Gather Documents: Resume, DD-214 (if veteran), employment records, transcripts.
- Review Your Background: Be prepared for criminal, credit, and reference checks.
- Understand Qualifications: Review GS-083 Police Officer requirements on USAJOBS announcements.
- Be Honest: Accuracy is critical; discrepancies can disqualify applicants.
Veterans with qualifying military police experience often have an advantage.
VA Police Officer Application Process Overview
Applying for a VA Police Officer position typically involves:
- Submitting an application via USAJOBS
- Completing assessments and interviews
- Undergoing pre-employment screening (including VA Form 0120)
- Background investigation, physical, and psychological evaluations
- Final job offer and training
VA Police Officers play a vital role in ensuring safety at VA facilities nationwide.
Common Questions About VA Form 0120
Is VA Form 0120 required for all VA police applicants?
Yes, it is a standard part of the pre-employment screening for Police Officer positions.
Where can I find the most current version?
Always download from the official source:
Official VA Form 0120 PDF or the VA Forms page.
What happens after the form is completed?
It contributes to the overall suitability determination. Additional steps like polygraph or medical exams may follow depending on the facility.
Can I fill out the form myself?
Applicants provide information, but HR and Police leadership complete most sections.
Tips for Successful VA Police Officer Candidacy
- Highlight any prior law enforcement, military police, or security experience.
- Maintain a clean background and strong employment references.
- Prepare for a thorough investigation process that can take weeks to months.
- Visit VA Careers for current openings and resources.
VA police positions offer competitive federal benefits, opportunities to serve Veterans, and a meaningful career in public safety.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consult official VA sources and current USAJOBS listings. The screening process ensures only the most qualified individuals join the VA Police force.
This article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available VA resources. Always refer to official VA.gov documentation and HR guidance for your specific application.