Veterans Preference in State Civil Service
Eligible veterans, widows/widowers, and spouses of 100% disabled veterans are ranked in the top rank of state employment eligibility lists.
State BenefitCaliforniaEmployment
Verified September 30, 2026 against calcareers.ca.gov
At a glance
- Benefit type
- Employment — California
- Who it's for
- Veterans, Spouses, Survivors
- VA rating needed
- No rating requirement
- Where it applies
- California
- Last verified
- September 30, 2026
What is Veterans Preference in State Civil Service?
Veterans Preference in State Civil Service is a California employment benefit for veterans, spouses, survivors. Eligible veterans, widows/widowers, and spouses of 100% disabled veterans are ranked in the top rank of state employment eligibility lists.
Who qualifies
- Veterans
- Spouses
- Survivors
- Available to any veteran
- Honorable discharge required
- California residency
Who is eligible
Eligibility
Veterans (honorable discharge, with DD-214 documentation), widows/widowers of veterans, and spouses of 100% disabled veterans. Active-duty military members within 6 months of separation also qualify. Voluntary program. Applies only to open (not promotional) examinations. Not available after achieving permanent civil service status.
How to apply for Veterans Preference in State Civil Service
How it works
Per California Government Code §18973.1, an eligible veteran who passes an entrance exam (minimum score 70) is ranked in the top rank of the resulting eligibility list. Does not guarantee an interview or hire — applicants still compete through the full hiring process.
How to apply
Through CalCareers.
Verified information & sources
- Last verified
- September 30, 2026
- Official source
- calcareers.ca.gov
Compiled and fact-checked against the official source linked above. Benefit rules and dollar amounts change over time — always confirm current details at the official source before applying. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is a free, accredited advocate who can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.
How VetUnlock verifies benefitsFrequently asked questions about Veterans Preference in State Civil Service
Who qualifies for Veterans Preference in State Civil Service?
Veterans Preference in State Civil Service is for Veterans, Spouses, Survivors; available to any veteran; california residency. See the eligibility details on this page and confirm with the official source before applying.
How do I apply for Veterans Preference in State Civil Service?
Apply through the official source linked on this page. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.
Where can I verify Veterans Preference in State Civil Service?
Benefit rules and dollar amounts change, so always confirm current details at the official source linked on this page. A free, accredited county or state Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can also verify your eligibility and help you apply.