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101 E. 1st Avenue, Ste #208, Mesa, AZ 85210 • (602) 697-8663

What is a polygraph?

Instrument that measures and records several physiological responses, such as blood pressure, pulse, respiration and skin conductivity while the subject is asked and answers a series of question. Law enforcement agencies, the legal community and private parties use polygraph examinations.

Is the polygraph technique accurate?

U.S. Government studies have shown that when a test is conducted by a certified examiner, the polygraph exam is between 85 and 95 percent accurate. It is the most accurate means available for determining the truth or deception of a person answering a direct question.

How does the test work?

The examiner reviews the facts of the case

A list of specific test questions is put together

The examiner explains the test process to the examinee

The examinee is attached to the polygraph instrument

Questions are read three times while the examinee is attached to the instrument, measuring the blood pressure, heart rate, breathing and sweat gland activity.

Upon completion of the test, the examiner analyzes the charts, scores them and results are transmitted to the client verbally as soon as they are ready.

Is the polygraph admissible in court?

Each jurisdiction must be checked to determine admissibility standards; some courts allow the introduction of polygraph evidence while others have not. In most cases, polygraph evidence is used during pre-trial investigation and preparations rather than during the actual trial.

What should I look for when hiring a polygraph examiner?

It is important to note that Arizona has NO licensing board or requirements, meaning, any person who purchases a polygraph instrument can conduct testing with no credentials or experience. While belonging to organizations and associations is important, it is also useful to ask your examiner about any local, state or federal contracts they hold. These agencies, before contracting with a polygraph examiner, will require the examiner to possess experience and credentials they would need if licensing was required and established in Arizona.

We, at AFA, Inc., currently hold 8 governmental contracts at the county, state and federal level. In addition. we hold multiple contracts with private practice agencies.

Most importantly, the examinee should always feel comfortable with the examiner hired to conduct the polygraph test. Look for an examiner with professional affiliations and memberships, such as the American Polygraph Association or other professional organizations that set standards for examiners.

Last, make sure you select an examiner experienced with the type of situation you are testing for.


	What is a polygraph?
	Instrument that measures and records several physiological responses, such as blood pressure, pulse, respiration and skin conductivity while the subject is asked and answers a series of question. Law enforcement agencies, the legal community and private parties use polygraph examinations.
	Is the polygraph technique accurate?
	U.S. Government studies have shown that when a test is conducted by a certified examiner, the polygraph exam is between 85 and 95 percent accurate. It is the most accurate means available for determining the truth or deception of a person answering a direct question.
	How does the test work?
	The examiner reviews the facts of the case A list of specific test questions is put together The examiner explains the test process to the examinee The examinee is attached to the polygraph instrument Questions are read three times while the examinee is attached to the instrument, measuring the blood pressure, heart rate, breathing and sweat gland activity. Upon completion of the test, the examiner analyzes the charts, scores them and results are transmitted to the client verbally as soon as they are ready.
	Is the polygraph admissible in court?
	Each jurisdiction must be checked to determine admissibility standards; some courts allow the introduction of polygraph evidence while others have not. In most cases, polygraph evidence is used during pre-trial investigation and preparations rather than during the actual trial.
	What should I look for when hiring a polygraph examiner?
	It is important to note that Arizona has NO licensing board or requirements, meaning, any person who purchases a polygraph instrument can conduct testing with no credentials or experience. While belonging to organizations and associations is important, it is also useful to ask your examiner about any local, state or federal contracts they hold. These agencies, before contracting with a polygraph examiner, will require the examiner to possess experience and credentials they would need if licensing was required and established in Arizona. We, at AFA, Inc., currently hold 8 governmental contracts at the county, state and federal level. In addition. we hold multiple contracts with private practice agencies. Most importantly, the examinee should always feel comfortable with the examiner hired to conduct the polygraph test. Look for an examiner with professional affiliations and memberships, such as the American Polygraph Association or other professional organizations that set standards for examiners. Last, make sure you select an examiner experienced with the type of situation you are testing for.