THE ELIGIBLE REGISTER.
How Names Are Placed on Eligible List and Mode of Certification to
Postmasters.
Usually it takes from three to six months to rate all papers after
an examination. Candidates that make 70 per cent. or over are then
notified of their relative standing. The period of eligibility for
original appointments is one year from the date of entering the
name on the register.
When a name has been placed upon a register it is not disturbed
until a postmaster calls for a list of eligibles. Then the proper
number of names are certified to him and he chooses those he needs.
The names of all others are returned to the eligible register to
await further certifications.
In making appointments the postmaster has the privilege of
selecting one out of three down the list: If he had but one vacancy
he could select the third name, but could not take the fourth; he
also is permitted to appoint in regular order straight down the
list, if he so choose.
The probationary period for letter carriers and clerks begins
upon their promotion to the regular force and not at the date
of original appointment as substitutes. The period of probation
is limited to six months and cannot be extended. At its close a
probationer must either be absolutely appointed or dismissed.