Veterans preference is one of the most underutilized advantages in civil service hiring. Eligible veterans who claim it correctly can add 5 or 10 points to their adjusted exam score — points that can meaningfully shift list position, especially on competitive exams where many candidates cluster in the 80s.
But the rules are specific, the documentation requirements are strict, and the process varies between federal, state, and local exams. Here is what you need to know.
Who qualifies for veterans preference?
At the federal level and in most states, veterans preference applies to honorably discharged veterans who served on active duty. The basic eligibility categories are:
- 5-point preference (TP): Veterans with honorable or general discharge who served during a designated war or campaign period
- 10-point preference — Compensable Disability (CP): Veterans with a service-connected disability rated 10% or higher
- 10-point preference — Disability (XP): Veterans with a service-connected disability rated less than 10%, or receiving disability pension
- 10-point preference — Other (XP): Veterans receiving certain medals or decorations
- Surviving spouse/parent preference: In some jurisdictions, surviving spouses of deceased veterans or parents of permanently disabled veterans qualify
How preference points work on the eligible list
Preference points are added to your adjusted exam score after you achieve a passing raw score. You cannot receive preference credit if you do not pass the exam on your own. Once applied, the points are added to your adjusted score before list ranking.
On a 100-point exam, 10 preference points can shift you significantly on the eligible list — potentially past hundreds of candidates. On exams where scores cluster tightly in the 80s, the difference between a position in the top 5% and the top 20% can come down to those preference points.
What documentation do you need?
The DD-214 is the primary document required to claim veterans preference. Specifically, you need a copy that shows your character of discharge — "Honorable" or "General (Under Honorable Conditions)." Other-than-honorable, bad-conduct, or dishonorable discharge does not qualify.
For disability-based preference (10 points), you also need a letter from the VA documenting your disability rating. This must come from the VA — a doctor's note or personal statement is not sufficient.
State vs. federal preference rules
Federal preference rules are set by the Veterans' Preference Act and apply consistently across all federal civilian positions. State and local rules vary considerably. Some states are more generous than federal law (New York, for example, gives preference to a broader set of veterans). Others have more limited programs.
Always check the preference provisions in your specific examination announcement — they control for that exam. Do not assume federal rules apply to state or local exams.
When to submit your preference claim
Submit your preference documentation at the time you file your exam application. Most jurisdictions will not accept late claims after the eligible list has been established. If you miss the deadline, you generally have to wait for the next exam offering.
If you are applying for a federal position, your preference claim is typically submitted through USAJOBS as part of your application.