Booking a polygraph test isn’t just about finding someone with a machine; it’s about hiring a qualified professional who can produce results you can trust. Whether you’re an employer, lawyer, or private individual, asking the right questions upfront helps you avoid wasted time, money, and legal complications.
This guide walks you through the essential questions to ask before you commit, so you know exactly what kind of service and results to expect.
🧾 1. Are You Registered with SAPFED or SAPPA?
Start by confirming whether the examiner is a member of SAPFED or SAPPA — South Africa’s leading polygraph associations. Membership with these bodies means the examiner follows strict ethical and technical standards.
You can verify this by:
- Visiting their official websites
- Checking the membership directories by name or location
- Asking the examiner for proof of their membership certificate
🎓 2. What Training Have You Completed?
A professional examiner should have completed formal training from an institution that is recognised by the American Polygraph Association (APA).
Ask:
- Where did you receive your polygraph training?
- Is this school accredited by the American Polygraph Association
- How many years have you been practising?
- Do you specialise in certain types of cases (e.g. theft, infidelity, pre-employment)?
🔍 3. What Testing Method Do You Use?
Different testing formats suit different situations. Common types include:
- Specific Issue Tests (e.g. theft, infidelity, incident-related)
- Periodical/Screening Tests (used for ongoing employment screening)
- Pre-employment/Vetting Tests (used to ensure that the candidate is the right fit for your company
Also ask:
- What kind of equipment does your polygraph instrument consist of (more of this later in our How to Choose a Professional Polygraph Examiner series.
- Are your sessions video recorded for quality assurance?
This helps ensure the test follows best practices.
💬 4. How Do You Structure the Pre-Test Interview?
The pre-test interview is critical. It helps establish the test subject’s suitability, explains the process, and reviews the questions to be asked.
Ask:
- How long is the pre-test interview? (A pre-test interview is typically between 30 minutes to an hour)
Avoid any examiner who skips or rushes this stage.
🕵️ 5. How Many Tests Do You Do Per Day?
Fatigue affects accuracy. A quality examiner will limit themselves to no more than 5 tests per day.
Ask:
- How many tests do you perform per day?
- Will the person being tested be the first or last of the day?
If they schedule too many in one day, it’s a red flag.
📝 6. What Will the Results Look Like?
Results should be delivered in a clear, written report. It should include:
- Test type and purpose
- Questions asked
- Result interpretation (e.g. NDI, NSR, DI, SR, or Inconclusive – More on this later in our series)
- Examiner’s professional opinion
Ask:
- When will I receive the report?
- Will it be sent electronically or in person?
- Will you explain the results to me?
💰 7. What Does Your Fee Include?
Don’t just ask about the price — ask what’s included. A reputable examiner will be upfront about costs and services.
Ask:
- Does the fee include travel?
- Is there a cancellation fee?
- Are there extra charges for weekends, urgent results, or printed reports?
This helps you avoid surprise costs.
⚖️ 8. Are There Situations Where You Refuse to Test?
This question reveals ethical standards. A qualified examiner will refuse to test if the subject:
- Is intoxicated or unwell
- Is under 18 without proper consent
- Has been coerced into the test
Avoid anyone willing to “test anyone, anytime, no questions asked.”
🧠 Bonus: Ask Yourself This
Before you book, ask yourself:
- Am I clear on why I want the test done?
- Have I explained the situation honestly to the examiner?
- Am I prepared to accept the results, whatever they are?
✅ Final Thoughts
Choosing a polygraph examiner without asking these questions is like hiring an investigator blindfolded. The answers will help you gauge whether you’re dealing with a seasoned professional or someone just out to make a quick buck.
Need a free consultation to help you decide?
👉 Contact our team, we’re happy to walk you through the process and answer all your questions.