Frequently Asked Questions

A polygraph test can help resolve questions when the truth matters. Use these FAQs to understand how lie detector tests work, what they can be used for, and what to expect during the process.

Contact The Polygraph Examiner directly for a free, confidential consultation.

General Polygraph Information

What is a polygraph test?

A polygraph test, often called a lie detector test, is a structured interview and physiological assessment used to determine whether a person is being truthful. The instrument records multiple biological responses (breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and skin conductivity) while the examinee answers a series of yes/no questions.

Polygraph testing is used for:

• Infidelity and relationship concerns
• Family and personal disputes
• Theft or property loss
• Workplace investigations
• Legal or post-conviction cases (where allowed)
• And more

A professional polygraph exam includes a pre-test interview, the actual data collection, and a post-test review of results.

How does a lie detector test work?

A lie detector test measures your body’s automatic physiological responses. When someone answers a question, the polygraph records changes in:

• Respiration (upper and lower breathing)
• Cardiovascular activity (heart rate, blood pressure)
• Electrodermal activity (skin conductivity)

These responses are compared across relevant, control, and comparison questions. Validated scoring methods help the examiner determine whether the data supports truthful, deceptive, or inconclusive results.

Modern computerized systems, combined with certified examiner training, make the process both standardized and reliable.

How long does a polygraph exam take?

A standard polygraph exam lasts 1.5 to 2 hours. The time includes:

• Pre-test interview (most important part)
• Review and clarification of every question
• Data collection phase (multiple test charts)
• Post-test explanation of preliminary results

Some cases, especially those regarding infidelity or family disputes, may take slightly longer to ensure clarity and accuracy. Rushing a polygraph reduces reliability, so a thorough process is crucial.

What questions can you ask on a polygraph test?

A polygraph exam uses yes/no questions that are factual, specific, and testable. Common examples include:

• Accusations of cheating
• Theft or missing property
• Sexual contact questions
• Drug or alcohol-related questions
• Family or interpersonal disputes
• Workplace issues

Questions must be clear and measurable. No opinions, emotions, or hypotheticals (e.g., “Do you love her?” “Are you a good parent?”).

Before testing, the examiner works with you to finalize wording so both parties agree on what is being asked.

What types of cases use lie detector tests?

Polygraph tests are used across many personal, family, and workplace situations, including:

• Infidelity testing to confirm or rule out cheating
• Family disputes, including accusations between siblings or relatives
• Theft and property loss in homes, families, and businesses
• Babysitter or caregiver concerns
• Substance use questions (drugs, alcohol, prescription misuse)
• Background or pre-employment screening (where legal)
• Legal or attorney-requested exams, when additional clarity is needed

The polygraph is a decision-support tool that provides clarity in situations where the truth is disputed, unclear, or emotionally charged.

What can a polygraph not test for?

A polygraph cannot measure emotions, thoughts, intentions, fantasies, or opinions. It cannot determine whether someone “loves,” “regrets,” “feels guilty,” or “wants” to do something.

Polygraphs can only test specific, observable behaviors tied to a clear yes/no question, such as sexual contact, undisclosed communication, drug use, property theft, or other concrete actions.

Ready to schedule a polygraph test or ask questions?

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Polygraph Accuracy & Reliability

Are polygraph tests accurate?

Yes. A professionally administered polygraph test is highly accurate, with most research placing reliability in the 92%–98% range for the type of testing I perform. Modern instruments measure multiple physiological responses and use validated scoring systems to distinguish truthful answers from deceptive ones.

Accuracy depends on:

• A certified examiner
• Validated testing formats
• Clear and relevant polygraph questions
• A controlled testing environment

Polygraph tests do not “detect lies” directly; they measure physiological patterns associated with truthfulness or deception. When these standards are followed, polygraphs provide reliable, decision-quality results.

What affects the accuracy of a polygraph test?

Polygraph accuracy is influenced most by the examiner’s training, the testing method, and question construction. Clear, specific questions and a thorough pre-test interview improve reliability.

Factors that can reduce accuracy:

• Poor or vague question wording
• Untrained or uncertified examiners
• Non-validated formats
• Environmental distractions

Factors that do not reduce accuracy:

• Nervousness
• Sweating
• Shaking or being upset

The scoring system is designed to separate normal anxiety from deception-related reactions.

Can you trick or beat a lie detector test?

No. Attempts to “beat” a lie detector test, such as controlled breathing, biting the tongue, or mental countermeasures, create irregular chart patterns that are easily detected by a trained examiner.

Certified examiners use multi-channel computerized data, making manipulation highly unlikely. In most cases, countermeasure attempts result in inconclusive results, not a pass.

Are lie detector tests reliable for infidelity cases?

Yes. Infidelity polygraph tests are just as accurate as any other validated polygraph exam. Accuracy rates for the type of tests I administer remain in the 92% to 98% range, provided the questions are specific and agreed upon during the pre-test interview.

Because relationship cases can be emotional, the examiner ensures that questions are:

• Clear and measurable
• Focused on one specific behavior
• Free from assumptions or interpretations

Reliable testing helps couples get clarity when trust has been damaged.

What percentage of polygraph tests are wrong?

The error rate for a properly administered polygraph test is low. With validated techniques, accuracy averages 92% to 98%, meaning only a small percentage fall into false-positive or false-negative outcomes.

Most errors occur when:

• An examiner uses outdated or non-validated methods
• Questions are poorly structured
• The pre-test phase is rushed or incomplete

Choosing a certified polygraph examiner significantly reduces the likelihood of an incorrect result.

Can someone fail a polygraph even if they’re telling the truth?

This is one of the single most searched questions in the industry.

It’s uncommon, but possible. Truthful people sometimes receive inconclusive results when their physiological responses don’t create a clear pattern for scoring. Inconclusive does not mean deceptive; it simply means the charts didn’t produce enough readable separation between question types.

Most truthful examinees pass when:

• The questions are clear and specific
• They understand what is being asked
• They communicate concerns during the pre-test interview

False positives are rare with validated testing methods and a trained examiner.

What causes an inconclusive polygraph result?

An inconclusive result means the examiner could not determine truthfulness or deception from the physiological data. Common causes include extreme nervousness, inconsistent breathing, fatigue, unclear questions, or attempting to use countermeasures.

Inconclusive does not imply guilt or innocence; it simply means the chart data was not strong enough to support a reliable decision. Many clients choose to retest after clarifying questions or adjusting conditions.

Need reliable answers?

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Infidelity & Relationship Polygraph FAQs

Can I use a polygraph test to find out if my partner is cheating?

Yes. An infidelity polygraph test can confirm or rule out cheating when conversations, suspicion, or past issues have created uncertainty in the relationship. The exam focuses on a specific incident or behavior, such as:

• Physical sexual contact
• Online or messaging-based cheating
• Emotional or physical boundaries
• Hidden relationships or communication

The goal is clarity. Infidelity polygraph exams are structured to give both partners a clear, evidence-based answer they can use to move forward, whether together or individually.

What are common cheating polygraph questions?

Cheating polygraph exams use clear, specific, yes/no questions that both partners agree on during the pre-test interview. Examples include:

• “Have you had sexual contact with anyone other than your partner?”
• “Have you communicated with [person] in a romantic or sexual way?”
• “Have you met anyone secretly for an intimate purpose?”
• “Since committing to your partner, have you had any physical sexual activity with someone else?”

Questions are never vague or emotional (e.g., not “Do you love her?”). They must be factual, measurable, and tied to a clearly defined behavior.

Can couples take a polygraph test together?

Yes. Couples often schedule joint infidelity polygraph testing when both partners want clarity at the same time. Each person is tested separately, and both tests follow the same structured process: pre-test interview, finalized questions, data collection, and results review.

Joint testing helps when:

• Both partners have concerns
• There are mutual accusations
• The relationship has experienced recurring trust issues
• Counseling or reconciliation requires full transparency

Exams remain private; each individual is tested alone, and results are reviewed respectfully.

What if my partner refuses to take a polygraph test?

A partner may refuse a polygraph for many reasons, including fear, anxiety, privacy concerns, or misunderstanding how a polygraph works. A refusal does not indicate deception on its own.

It can help to frame the test as a tool for clarity, not punishment. Reviewing the process together, addressing misconceptions, or arranging a consultation with the examiner may ease concerns.

Ultimately, a successful polygraph exam requires voluntary participation from both parties. No one should be pressured into taking a test.

Do infidelity tests cost more than other polygraph exams?

Infidelity polygraph exams may cost slightly more due to the time required to:

• Review complex relationship histories
• Clarify specific behaviors or timelines
• Ensure both parties agree on question wording
• Provide additional emotional and procedural guidance

However, pricing is completely custom to your unique situation, so a phone consultation is required for an accurate quote.

Facing trust issues or relationship uncertainty?

A private infidelity polygraph can provide the clarity you need to move forward with confidence.

Cost & Logistics

How much does a lie detector test cost?

The cost of a lie detector test depends on the type of exam (infidelity, family dispute, theft, single-issue, multi-issue), the location, and the time required for proper question development. Get a completely custom quote during your free phone consultation.

Pricing includes:

• Pre-test interview
• Question development
• Chart collection
• Certified scoring and analysis
• Same-day verbal results

Why aren’t polygraph exams free?

A professional polygraph exam involves more than the time spent in the chair. Pricing reflects the examiner’s training, certification, specialized equipment, and the detailed work behind validated polygraph techniques. Each test requires:

• Customized question development
• A thorough pre-test interview
• Multiple chart collections
• Scoring and analysis
• Same-day review of findings

You are hiring a highly trained specialist, not just renting a machine. Accurate results depend on expertise, not shortcuts.

Is there a deposit required for a cheating polygraph test?

Yes. Infidelity or cheating polygraph tests typically require a deposit to secure your appointment time. This ensures the examiner reserves the testing window, prepares your case, and completes the necessary pre-test review.

The deposit is applied toward your total exam fee and is reviewed during your phone consultation.

What happens if I need to reschedule?

Life happens. If you need to reschedule your polygraph exam, simply contact The Polygraph Examiner before your appointment window. Deposits can typically be transferred to a new date, provided the reschedule request is made within the allowed timeframe.

Short-notice cancellations may be subject to a fee because the examiner has already reserved time and prepared your case.

Do you travel for polygraph exams?

Yes. Polygraph testing conducted by The Polygraph Examiner takes place in a mutually chosen neutral location. Travel availability depends on your locale and the type of case.

The examiner routinely serves clients in:

• North Carolina
• South Carolina
• Georgia
• Surrounding regions (case-by-case)

Travel fees and scheduling specifics are covered in your free consultation.

How quickly can I schedule a polygraph exam?

Scheduling is often flexible. Because testing locations are neutral for confidentiality and convenience, many clients can be seen quickly — sometimes even the same or next day — if they are willing to meet in a location near where the examiner is working.

Availability depends on your type of case, location, and whether both parties (for relationship cases) are ready to proceed. Your free consultation will provide exact scheduling options.

Need immediate availability?

Call now to check open appointment times and get your custom quote.

Process & Experience

What happens during a polygraph test?

A professional polygraph test has three stages:

1. Pre-Test Interview

The examiner reviews your case, explains the process, finalizes each question with you, and ensures you fully understand what will be asked. This is the most important phase for accuracy.

2. Data Collection

You’ll be connected to the polygraph instrument, and the examiner will run several charts. You will answer the same yes/no questions multiple times to ensure consistent data.

3. Post-Test Review

The examiner analyzes the charts using validated scoring methods and provides same-day verbal results.

Most exams last 1.5–2 hours. The environment is private, calm, and designed to help you give your best, most accurate answers.

Do you have to answer every question during a polygraph?

No. You are never required to answer a question you are uncomfortable with. Before the exam begins, the examiner reviews every question with you word-for-word. Nothing is ever asked unexpectedly.

If there’s a question you don’t want included, it will be removed or reworded so you feel confident and prepared. A successful polygraph exam relies on clear, agreed-upon questions, not surprise interrogation.

What happens if someone refuses to answer a question?

If a person refuses to answer a question during the exam, the examiner will stop the test and review the concern. A refusal does not automatically count as deception; it simply means the question must be clarified or rewritten so the examinee understands it.

If someone repeatedly refuses to answer, the exam may be marked incomplete because the necessary data cannot be collected.

Are there questions that aren’t allowed on a polygraph test?

Yes. Polygraph questions must be:

• Yes/No
• Factual and measurable
• Specific to a defined behavior or incident
• Not emotional, hypothetical, or opinion-based

Not allowed:

• “Do you still love her?”
• “Are you a good partner?”
• “Do you want to cheat?”
• “Do you think about other people?”

Allowed:

• “Since committing to your partner, have you had sexual contact with anyone else?”
• “Did you take the missing money?”
• “Have you used illegal drugs in the last 30 days?”

Will marijuana or prescription medications affect my polygraph results?

No. You should continue taking all medications as prescribed, including marijuana for medical use. Polygraph testing measures changes relative to your personal baseline. This means normal doses of medication do not cause someone to “fail” or “pass” a polygraph.

Only extreme intoxication or an overdose can create abnormal physiological patterns that make chart data unreadable. As long as you are sober, coherent, and able to follow instructions, medications will not interfere with your results.

Can mental health conditions like anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, or depression affect the exam?

Generally, no. Conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or other common mental health concerns do not prevent someone from completing an accurate polygraph exam.

The polygraph records physiological responses to specific yes/no questions, not overall emotional states. If you can sit still, breathe normally, and understand the questions being asked, your results will be valid.

Is the polygraph physically uncomfortable?

Most people experience little to no discomfort during the exam. The only notable sensation is the blood pressure cuff, which may feel snug or cause brief tingling. The pressure used is often less than what you experience during a routine medical check.

All other sensors attach lightly and do not cause pain. The examiner ensures you are comfortable before testing begins.

Can I write my own questions for a polygraph test?

Yes. You may propose your own polygraph questions, and the examiner will revise them to ensure they meet scientific and legal standards. Questions must be clear, testable, and tied to one specific behavior.

Examples of good client-submitted questions:

• “Have you had sexual contact with anyone since [date]?”
• “Did you take the missing item from the home?”
• “Have you communicated with [person] romantically?”

The examiner will help you refine wording so both parties agree, understand, and accept what is being asked, ensuring accurate results.

Can I take a polygraph test more than once?

Yes. Retesting is allowed if a previous exam was inconclusive, if new information has surfaced, or if you want to test a different issue. The examiner will review prior results (if provided) and ensure the new test is structured properly to avoid repeating the same issues.

Ready to schedule your exam or ask questions about the process?

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Legality & Admissibility

Are polygraph results admissible in court?

In most cases, polygraph results are not automatically admissible in court, but there are important exceptions. Some jurisdictions allow polygraph evidence if both parties agree in advance. Attorneys also regularly use polygraph exams as a pre-trial tool to support negotiations, strengthen a client’s credibility, or guide investigative decisions.

Courts often view polygraph tests as a reliable decision-support resource, even if the results themselves aren’t entered into evidence. Many attorneys request exams to clarify contested facts or demonstrate cooperation.

Are lie detector tests legal in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia?

Yes. Lie detector tests are legal in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia for private, personal, and most non-employment situations. Individuals can request a polygraph exam for:

• Infidelity and relationship disputes
• Family conflicts
• Theft or property loss
• Accusations involving minors or caregivers
• Pre-court or attorney-directed purposes

Employment-related testing is restricted under federal law (EPPA), but personal and civil-use polygraph exams are fully permitted.

Can employers require polygraph tests?

Most employers cannot require a polygraph exam due to the federal Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA). However, EPPA does allow polygraph testing in limited cases, such as:

• Certain government positions
• Security services
• Pharmaceutical manufacturing or distribution
• Workplace theft investigations that meet EPPA criteria

Outside these exceptions, employers may not use polygraph tests for hiring, screening, or routine employee checks. Individuals may still take a private polygraph exam for personal reasons or to clear their name in workplace disputes.

What are the laws around polygraph testing (EPPA and state regulations)?

Polygraph testing is regulated by both federal and state laws. The most important national rule is the Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA), which limits polygraph use in the workplace. EPPA does not restrict personal, family, or relationship testing.

At the state level (NC, SC, GA):

• Polygraph exams for personal matters are fully legal.
• Certified examiners must follow established testing standards.
• Local law enforcement policies may vary by agency.

For personal, infidelity, or family-related cases, clients may freely schedule a test without violating any employment or criminal restrictions.

Get clarity, closure, and confident answers.

Schedule your free consultation today and speak directly with a certified polygraph examiner.

Examiner Credentials & Confidentiality

Is The Polygraph Examiner certified and professionally trained?

Yes. Your polygraph exam is conducted only by Andrew Goldstein, a certified, professionally trained examiner who uses validated techniques, modern computerized equipment, and nationally recognized testing formats.

Certification ensures the examiner follows strict standards for question development, data collection, scoring, and professionalism.

Working with a certified examiner is the single most important factor in receiving accurate, defensible results. It also ensures your test is administered ethically, respectfully, and in full compliance with industry standards.

Can someone come with me to the exam?

Yes, you may bring a support person to the testing location, but they cannot sit in the exam room.

Polygraph testing must be conducted one-on-one to protect accuracy, confidentiality, and examiner neutrality. Your support person may wait nearby and receive the results only if you authorize it.

Will my polygraph results remain confidential?

Yes. Your results are confidential and will never be shared without your written consent. The examiner cannot speak with any spouse, partner, family member, employer, attorney, or third party unless you authorize it in writing before or after your exam.

You choose who receives the verbal results, who receives a written report (if requested), and how your information is handled. Many clients take the polygraph alone for personal clarity, and that choice is fully respected.

How do I know the results will be honest and unbiased?

A certified examiner uses standardized scoring methods, validated testing formats, and objective chart analysis, meaning your results are based on data, not personal interpretation. The examiner has no interest in helping one side “win” or “prove a point.” The goal is clarity, accuracy, and truth.

Strict ethical requirements govern every test, including transparency, neutrality, and the prohibition of coaching or influencing outcomes. You can be confident your results reflect your own physiological data, scored according to proven scientific methods.

What happens after the polygraph exam is completed?

After your polygraph test, the examiner reviews your charts using validated scoring techniques and provides same-day verbal results. If you need a written report, it can be prepared on request.

Your results remain private, and The Polygraph Examiner will only discuss them with the individuals you authorize. If the exam is part of a relationship concern, legal case, or ongoing dispute, the examiner can also explain recommended next steps or how to present results to the appropriate parties (only if you choose).

Do you provide written polygraph reports?

Yes. A written report is available upon request after your exam. It includes question wording, chart data scoring, and the examiner’s professional conclusion. Many clients use written reports for legal cases, relationship discussions, or personal resolutions.

When should you consider a polygraph test?

A polygraph exam is helpful when:

• You’re facing accusations without evidence
• A relationship has trust issues or conflicting stories
• Family disputes involve theft, boundaries, or safety concerns
• You need clarity before making major decisions
• An attorney recommends it before negotiation
• You want objective confirmation of truth in a high-stakes situation

Polygraphs provide clarity and direction when uncertainty is causing emotional, legal, or relational strain.

When the truth matters, work with a certified expert you can trust.

A polygraph test can provide closure, clarity, and a path forward, whether you’re dealing with infidelity concerns, family conflict, or a difficult accusation. Talk privately with a certified examiner to understand your options and get a custom quote.