Are employers allowed to require job applicants to take a physical or mental ability test?

In California, employers are allowed to require job applicants to complete a physical or mental ability test only if it is job-related and necessary for the business. For example, if an employer is hiring a painter, they may require applicants to have the physical ability to be able to paint for the duration of the job. Likewise, if an employer is hiring an accountant, they may require applicants to have the mental ability to pass a math test. The process must also be conducted in a fair and nondiscriminatory way. For example, employers must ensure that the ability test is not designed to be more difficult for a particular group, and that the same test is given to all applicants. Employers are also not allowed to set different standards for different applicants, as this would result in a form of discriminatory hiring practices. In addition, employers in California must consider reasonable accommodation when necessary. This means that if an applicant is unable to complete an ability test due to a disability or religious belief, employers must offer alternative solutions. For example, if the applicant needs to use special equipment to complete the test, the employer must allow them to do so. Overall, employers in California may require job applicants to take physical or mental ability tests, but they must follow certain procedures to make sure the process is fair and nondiscriminatory.

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Are employers allowed to require job applicants to take a physical or mental ability test?

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