For some positions with state agencies a “certified” typing speed is necessary. The Department of Personnel (DOP) offers typing tests at no charge at their location in Olympia. For those who live outside the Olympia area, other locations are available (Word File).

 

DOP staff recommends that you practice and build up your typing speed and skills before you schedule a test. 

 

 

Typing Skills Certificate

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Typing tests to obtain a certified skills certificate that you can use to meet the requirements for certain state positions can be taken at:

 

     Department of Personnel
     521 Capitol Way S.   
     Olympia, WA  98504
     
     Testing Hours:  Monday – Thursday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
       (no appointment necessary)

 

Or at one of the various official typing test locations (Word File).

 

 

Testing and Certification Information

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The following provides general information about testing at DOP in Olympia (call to check specific information for other locations (Word File) before going to them):

• Test is monitored by DOP’s job seeker support team
• Five minute hands-on test to assess your typing speed and number of errors
• Two computers are available at DOP for job seeker typing tests
• Maximum of five minutes to practice before actual test begins  
• Picture identification is necessary

 

Once you’ve taken the test:

• DOP staff review your picture identification and then date stamp the certificate. 
• Original of the certificate should be kept in a safe place
• You will need to make copies of the certificate to present to employers with your application materials
• Typing Test Certificate will be valid for one year from date of testing