How to Join the Police: A Step-by-Step Guide for UK Job Seekers
- Employing Now
- May 27
- 2 min read
If you’re considering a career that’s challenging, rewarding, and centred around public service, joining the police could be the path for you. Whether you’re straight out of education or looking for a career change, the UK police service offers various entry routes and specialisms to suit different skills and backgrounds.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process of joining the police in the UK:
Step 1: Check the Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, make sure you meet the basic eligibility criteria. You must:
Be at least 18 years old.
Have lived in the UK for the last three years.
Not have any serious criminal convictions.
Hold a full UK manual driving licence (for most forces).
Be in good physical and mental health.
Pass a background check and vetting process.
Step 2: Choose Your Entry Route
There are three main routes to becoming a police constable in England and Wales:
Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA)
A paid three-year apprenticeship combining on-the-job learning with university study.
You don’t need a degree, but you’ll earn one as part of the programme.
Degree-holder Entry Programme (DHEP)
A two-year programme for those who already hold a degree in any subject.
Leads to a graduate diploma in professional policing practice.
Pre-join Degree Route
If you already hold a degree in professional policing (from a university accredited by the College of Policing), you can apply directly to a force.
Scotland, Northern Ireland, and the British Transport Police have different recruitment processes, so check the relevant websites if applying in those regions.
Step 3: Apply to a Police Force
Each police force in the UK handles its own recruitment, so you’ll need to apply directly via the website of the force you want to join. Be prepared to complete an online application that may ask about your motivation, previous experience, and understanding of the role.
Step 4: Pass the Online Assessment Centre
If your application is successful, you’ll be invited to take part in the National Online Assessment Process. This typically includes:
Situational judgement tests
Written exercises
Briefing exercises
An interview
You’ll be assessed on behaviours such as decision-making, teamwork, public service, and integrity.
Step 5: Fitness and Medical Checks
If you pass the assessment stage, you’ll then need to:
Complete a fitness test (usually a 15-metre bleep test to level 5.4).
Undergo a medical assessment, including eyesight and hearing tests.
Provide fingerprints and DNA for the vetting process.
Step 6: Background and Security Vetting
This is a detailed background check to ensure you are suitable for a position of trust. It includes:
Criminal record checks
Financial checks
Interviews with family or neighbours (in some cases)
Step 7: Start Your Training
Once all checks are cleared, you’ll be offered a place on your chosen training route. This will include both classroom-based and practical learning, and you’ll begin working on the front line with support.
Final Thoughts
Joining the police isn’t a quick process – it can take several months from application to training. But for those committed to serving their community and upholding the law, it’s a hugely fulfilling career with plenty of development opportunities.
Be sure to check the recruitment pages of police forces near you, as vacancies and eligibility criteria can vary slightly.
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