How Much Does a Lie Detector Test Cost?


Written by:  Howmuchisit.org Staff

Lie detector tests, also referred to as a polygraph test, can be more than 90 percent accurate and is a great way to test someone in situations such as theft, a criminal investigation, civil investigation or corporate theft.  Recording physiological changes in the body, this test is going to monitor the blood pressure, respiratory pattern and skin response to give the reader an accurate response.  The cost of a lie detector test will depend on the company doing the test, the length of the test and geographical location.

Lie detector by Marcin Wichary, on Flickr
Lie detector” (CC BY 2.0) by  Marcin Wichary

How much does a lie detector cost?

On average, plan on spending anywhere from $250 to as much as $1,300 for a professional test that is conducted by a private agency.  The fees can greatly go up if the test has to be done after hours or if the test is an emergency.  Typical two-hour sessions, according to our research, are in the $300 to $800 range.

Home lie detector tests are also available and will depend on the type purchased,  For example, a voice stress test, known as a De-FIB-ulator, can cost around $100, while older units professionals used can cost upwards of $500 to $1,000 on eBay.

Gillespie Polygraph, for example, charges anywhere from $300 per employee to as much as $1,000 if you needed them for the entire day.

Central Polygraph, a professional polygraph service, uses graduate level Forensic Psychophysiologists and charges $550 per test.

Lie detector overview

Before you’re able to take the test, most professionals will ask for a non-refundable deposit, usually around $100 to $200 to secure your location.  This deposit, like any other deposit, will then be applied to your bill once you show up and complete your test.  Cancellations and no-shows will often forfeit this deposit.

The average test will take around 1.5 to four hours to take depending on the situation.

During the test, you will wear four to six sensors that are attached to the body. Based on particular movements, the machine will be able to send signals to show whether you are lying or not.  While there are occasionally false-positives, the test can have incredible accuracies as high as 98 percent.

After the test has been completed, you will be able to talk about the results immediately.  If you were to need a written report, the company may or may not include it depending on their policy.  Also, if not included, some may charge a separate amount, while others may not.

Where can I take a lie detector test?  A certified and accredited lie detector test can be often be found via a simple search on Google, the Yellow Pages or even by checking your local Yelp results.

What are the extra lie detector test costs?

Most lie detector professionals will want to do the test directly in their office.  Since all the equipment is already set up, it will make it a lot easier for them as well as cheaper for you.  Most companies are able to come directly to your residence, but the cost can rise to as much as 50 percent more than the fees mentioned above.

Some companies often have strict cancellation processes.  If you were to cancel within 24 to 48 hours, then you may be charged the full amount.

Tips to know:

Some drugs can often throw off a lie detector.  If you were on drugs such as an anti-depressant, be sure to let the facilitator know about this issue.

When choosing a company to perform the test, always make sure they are certified.  It is also important to note how long that they have been in business.  This will give you a good idea on what kind of reputation they have within the community. Aside from certifications, see if the provider is recognized by certain associations.  Being recognized by associations such as the Police Polygraphists and American Polygraph Association are a huge plus.

A lie detector test can often be found online, but it should be taken with a grain of salt since most are used for entertainment purposes.

Issues ideal for the test:

Assault

Child Custody

Civil Matters

Criminal

Employee Screening

Insurance Fraud

Personal Matters

Sex Offenders

Theft

How can I save money?

More than likely, there are many agencies in your area that provide this service.  Conduct a search online to find companies and see what they charge.  Most companies will list their fees right on their website, so it will be easy to compare and choose the cheapest service.


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