the chances

[Johnn]

Does anyone here know what the chances are of passing a polygraph retest - at the federal and local level?
My sister just entered the police academy and she was telling me that a handful of students were complaining about the polygraph.  She said that a lot of people failed their initial tests, but were later retested and passed.  I was very surprised to hear this - as I thought once a "failure" always a "failure".
Also, does anyone know what the chances are of passing at the second chance at the federal level?

[George W. Maschke]

Johnn,

Based on feedback received, it seems that the chances of passing a "re-test" with a federal law enforcement agency are practically zero, unless, perhaps, there is some special circumstance (for example, the applicant is a federal LEO with another agency).

At the state or local level, the chances of passing a second polygraph may be better.

[Fair Chance]

Dear Johnn,

The possibility of passing a polygraph retest in the FBI is almost non-existent.  It is performed as a preventive maintenance measure.  The FBI has no desire or reward for overturning its "perfect" system.  It is so sad to see so many fine applicants dismissed over such a flawed system.

Regards.