Fact check: What kind of polygraph test do ICE agents have to pass?

1. Summary of the results

Based on the available analyses, ICE agents are subject to polygraph examinations, but the specific type of polygraph test is not clearly defined in the sources reviewed. The analyses reveal that:

• Law enforcement applicants for Criminal Investigator (1811 job series) and Deportation Officer (1801 job series) positions may be subject to pre-employment polygraph examinations ^[1]
• The stated purpose of polygraph examinations is to determine if candidates are willing to be forthcoming and demonstrate integrity ^[2]
• Current DHS employees, including ICE agents, are being subjected to polygraph tests to identify potential leakers of classified documents and sensitive law enforcement information ^{[3] [4] [5] [6]}

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original question lacks important context about the dual nature of polygraph testing within ICE:

• Pre-employment screening polygraphs are administered during the hiring process for specific positions ^[1]
• Investigative polygraphs are being used on current employees to identify those leaking information to media outlets and nonprofit groups ^{[4] [7]}

DHS Secretary Noem has specifically implemented polygraph testing as a tool to identify leakers within the agency ^[6], suggesting these tests serve both screening and investigative purposes. The analyses indicate that every polygraph exam must include questions about unauthorized communication with nonprofit groups and media outlets ^[7].

Key stakeholders who benefit from this polygraph implementation include:

• DHS leadership seeking to control information flow and prevent leaks
• Political appointees who want to maintain operational security
• Polygraph testing companies that profit from increased government contracts

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question itself does not contain misinformation, but it oversimplifies the polygraph testing landscape within ICE by implying there is a single, standardized test type. The question fails to acknowledge that:

• Different types of polygraph tests serve different purposes - pre-employment screening versus leak investigations
• The polygraph testing program has evolved to include investigative purposes beyond traditional hiring screening ^{[3] [4]}
• Recent policy changes under Secretary Noem have expanded polygraph use specifically to target potential leakers ^[6]

The framing suggests a routine, standardized process when the reality appears more complex, involving both traditional hiring protocols and newer investigative applications targeting employee communications with external parties.